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.
Nissan 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
Ford 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.