If you’ve been asking yourself “should I buy an electric car?” or “should I buy a used electric car?” now may be the right time to consider making an EV purchase.

Which Used EV Should I Consider?

Finding a used EV can be time consuming, and that’s why we’ve narrowed it down to two vehicles: the Nissan LEAF and Ford Focus Electric. On average, both hatchback EVs come with reasonable prices for used models and have fairly low mileage when they come back to the dealership. This is good news for subprime consumers who want to “go green” but don’t want to spend over $14,000 to finance an electric vehicle.

2014 Nissan LeafNissan LEAF

2011 model average price – $7,183

Average mileage – 45,240

2012 model average price – $8,780

Average mileage – 38,849

2013 model average price – $10,611

Average mileage – 37,594

2014 model (pictured) average price – $11,755

Average mileage – 31,732

2015 model average price – $13,507

Average mileage – 25,339

2014 Ford Focus ElectricFord Focus Electric

2012 model average price – $8,437

Average mileage – 43,996

2013 model average price – $12,900

Average mileage – 27,912

2014 model (pictured) average price – $12,789

Average mileage – 31,869

2015 model average price – $12,588

Average mileage – 12,424

2016 model average price – $13,688

Average mileage – 11,102

Charging the Batteries

One of the most important questions potential EV buyers ask is “how long will it take to charge the vehicle?” While there’s no simple answer, and each EV's battery is different, there’s one thing they all have in common: it’ll take a good chunk of the day, if not the whole day, to fully charge from zero.

There are three levels of charging:

  • Level 1 – Level 1 chargers can be plugged into wall outlets, so they can be used at home. However, they are also the weakest of the bunch, typically providing around 15 miles per hour of charging.
  • Level 2 – More powerful Level 2 chargers can be found at charging stations, but can also be installed at home. Level 2 chargers usually provide around 30 miles per hour of charge. Keep in mind that it can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousands dollars to install a home charging port.
  • Level 3 – The most powerful, Level 3 EV chargers are commonly called DC fast charging. These can't be installed at home, but are available at public charging stations. Compatible EVs can get around 80 miles per hour of charge.

Charging a LEAF

On average, a Nissan LEAF will take up to four hours to fully charge starting at zero with a Level 2 charger. The LEAF is capable of using any of the three chargers. The 2015 model LEAF’s electric motor has 107 horsepower and is capable of driving up to 100 miles under a full charge.

Charging a Focus Electric

A standard Level 1 charger will fully charge the Focus Electric from zero in about five to six hours, while a Level 2 can take three to four hours. It’s highly recommended that you charge your Focus Electric overnight for optimal results. The Focus Electric 23kW battery has an average range of 100 miles and a 143-horsepower electric motor, while the 2017 model’s 33.5-kW battery has a range of 115 miles.

Bottom Line

EVs are part of the future of everyday driving. Within the next decade, we’ll be seeing a surplus of EVs hit the market and charging stations across the country. While the newest EV models are pricey, a used LEAF or Focus Electric can be a great first electric vehicle. If you’re looking to finance a used EV, but worry your credit is in the way, let Auto Credit Express help.

We want to help by matching you with a local dealership that can get you the financing you need, even if you have imperfect credit. Just fill out our easy and fast auto loan request form to get started today.