Should You Buy a Used Electric Car? Current Prices of Electric Vehicle Models

Electric cars are vehicles powered by an electric motor instead of a traditional internal combustion engine (using fuel such as gasoline or diesel). The energy supplied to an electric motor is stored in a battery, usually a lithium-ion battery. 

Buying a used electric car brings many benefits in terms of price, operating costs, environmental protection and limited engine noise. However, there still exist risks regarding battery life, maintenance and repair costs, charging infrastructure, etc. You should only buy an electric car if you have limited finances, live in an area with many charging stations, or need to travel short distances. 

Some of the most popular used electric vehicles today include: Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf 2023, Chevrolet Bolt EV 2018, Kona Electric, KIA Soul EV, Volkswagen e-Golf, Mini Cooper Electric, VinFast VF e34…sold at prices ranging from 200 million to 800 million VND. 

when the Buy a used electric car Be sure to check the vehicle's condition, review ownership documents, maintenance history and negotiate an appropriate price. In particular, according to Circular 58/2020/TT-BCA, if you want to transfer the name or change the owner of an old electric car, you need to prepare complete documents to submit to the Traffic Police Department (GTCS). 

If you are wondering whether to buy a used electric car or a diesel engine, you need to consider your needs, budget and personal preferences. Or ask a reputable used car sales address like Thanh Phong Auto to help you choose.

This article will analyze Advantages and disadvantages of buying a used electric car, and at the same time introduce top Best used electric car models along with reference prices and related information so you can make the right decision.

1. Should I Buy a Used Electric Car or Not?

Buying a used electric car can bring benefits in terms of price, operating cost savings, environmental friendliness and low noise... However, there are many risks such as vehicle deterioration and serious damage. , limited charging infrastructure… 

You should only buy a used electric car when you clearly understand the origin and condition of the vehicle, only use the vehicle for short-range travel, live in an area with many charging stations, and have limited finances.

1.1 What are the benefits of buying a used electric car?

Buying a used electric car brings many benefits such as saving vehicle purchase and operating costs, protecting the environment, smoothness and low noise.

Reasons to choose to buy a used electric car: 

• Cheap: The price of used electric cars is usually only 30 - 50% of the price of a new car of the same type, helping you save significantly on car buying costs.
• Save operating costs: Electric cars use electric energy, so operating costs (fuel costs) are much cheaper than gasoline cars.
• Environmental Protection: Electric cars do not emit harmful gases, helping to protect the environment.
• Less noise: Electric cars operate more smoothly than gasoline cars, creating a comfortable feeling for the driver and passengers.

1.2 What risks exist when buying a used electric car?

Buying a used electric car poses many risks such as low battery life, difficulty checking the condition, high maintenance costs, limited charging station infrastructure and low resale value.

Details of risks when buying used electric cars:

• Battery life: The battery is the most important part of an electric car, but battery life is limited. Old electric cars may have had batteries for many years, leading to reduced battery capacity, affecting the vehicle's range.
• Difficulty in checking vehicle condition: Electric cars have a more complex structure than gasoline cars, so checking the car's condition before buying is more difficult. Buyers need to have professional knowledge about electric cars to accurately assess the vehicle's condition.
• High maintenance and repair costs: Electric cars have a more complex structure than gasoline cars, so maintenance and repair costs are also higher.
• Limited charging station infrastructure: Currently, charging station infrastructure for electric cars in Vietnam is limited, especially in suburban areas.
• Low resale value: The resale value of used electric cars may be lower than that of gasoline cars.

1.3 When should you buy a used electric car?

You should buy an electric car when you have a limited budget, accept risks and have knowledge about the car to evaluate the car's condition before buying. As follows:

• Limited finances: Used electric cars are much cheaper than new cars, helping you save on car buying costs.
• Use only for traveling short distances: Older electric cars often have a shorter range than new ones, but if you only use the car to travel short distances, this won't be a big problem.
• There are many charging stations around the living area: Only prioritize buying a used electric vehicle when the area you live in has many charging stations, convenient for recharging the vehicle.
• Have knowledge about electric cars: Buying a used electric car requires you to have knowledge about electric cars to accurately assess the car's condition before buying.
• Accept the risks: Buying a used electric car poses many risks such as low battery life, difficulty checking the condition, high maintenance costs, limited charging station infrastructure and low resale value.

Price quote for the best-selling used electric car model updated in February 2

1. Tesla Model 3 electric car

• Reference price: About 594 million VND.

Tesla Model 3 impresses with its super fast speed, running a 13.8m distance in just 400 seconds, with an average speed of 162,5 km/h (equivalent to sports cars). 

Other features:

• Large operating range, can travel a distance of 500 km.
• Brings a comprehensive driving experience with many features: 2-zone air conditioning, heated front seats, LED technology headlights...
• Exclusive technology in the segment: unlocking with the owner's smartphone, 15-inch touch screen.

2. Nissan Leaf 2023 electric car

• Reference selling price: About 661 million VND.

Nissan Leaf 2023 has 2 versions: Leaf S and Leaf SV Plus. The Leaf S series has an integrated 40kWh lithium-ion battery, an electric motor that produces 147 horsepower and 320Nm of torque. The Leaf SV Plus series has a battery capacity of 60kWh, an electric motor that produces 214 horsepower and 339Nm of torque. 

This vehicle line is considered to have low operating and maintenance costs.

3. Chevrolet Bolt EV 2018 electric car

• Reference selling price: About 502 million VND.

Chevrolet Bolt EV 2018 has an electric motor with 200 horsepower and maximum torque of 360N. Combined with a 60kWh Lithium-Ion battery system, this vehicle is capable of traveling 383km after each full charge.

Vehicle dimensions of 4.165 x 1.765 x 1.610 mm (LxWxH) are comfortable for the driver and sitting inside. 

4. Electric cars Hyundai Kona Electric

• Reference selling price: About 636 million VND. 

Hyundai Kona Electric stands out with its youthful appearance, personality and many amenities. This vehicle has a 48,4 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 154 - 215 horsepower electric motor. 

Other features:

• On a full charge, Hyundai Kona Electric can run 490 km. 
• Has strong acceleration and smooth operation. 

5. KIA Soul EV 2019 electric car

• Reference price: About 284 million VND. 

If you have limited finances, the 2019 KIA Soul EV electric car is also a great suggestion for you. With a 64 kWh lithium-ion battery and an electric motor producing 204 horsepower and 395 Nm of torque; This electric car can run 391 km on a full charge and only needs 7.7 seconds to accelerate from 0-100 km/h.

6. Volkswagen e-Golf 2019 electric car

• Reference selling price: About 442 million VND. 

Volkswagen e-Golf 2019 is one of the old electric car lines that many users are interested in and choose. 

Highlights:

• Using a 1,4 liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, helps the car accelerate from 0-96 km/h in just 7.7 seconds.
• Has an impressive operating range of up to 300km after each full charge, meeting daily travel needs.
• Equipped with many advanced safety features such as ABS braking system, ESP electronic stability system, HAS hill start assist system.

7. Mini Cooper Electric 2022 electric car 

• Reference price: About 711 million VND. 

If you are looking for a compact, luxurious 3-door hatchback, you can refer to the Mini Cooper Electric 2022. This car has a maximum capacity of 181 horsepower and 270Nm of torque, so it can accelerate from 0 – 62mph in just 7,3 seconds.

Other features:

• Comfortable interior with LCD touch screen, three-spoke steering wheel with many buttons, automatic air conditioning...
• Equipped with many safety features such as rear parking sensor, reversing camera, rear LED light system... 

8. VinFast VF e34 electric car

• Reference price: From 450 million VND.

The VinFast VF e34 electric car is highly appreciated by experts for its operating quality after a period of use. This car line has a reasonable used price, suitable for urban mobility needs or young people buying a car for the first time with a limited budget.

Advantage:

• Smooth operation, no noise
• Does not emit harmful gases, protects the environment
• Equipped with many attractive amenities: automatic air conditioning, rear seat air vents, electric adjustable glass doors, 10 inch touch screen,...
• Integrates many smart features: Vivi VinFast virtual assistant, ViVi voice support,...

3. Questions related to buying used electric cars

3.1 What should you keep in mind when buying a used electric car?

When buying a used electric car, you should consider the vehicle documents, vehicle condition (use history, battery, charging system, electrical system, steering and braking system, safety features,...) and Price to negotiate to match the current value of the car. 

As follows:

• Check vehicle documents: Require the owner of the old car to provide complete documents proving the origin and ownership of the vehicle. 
• Check usage history: Find out about the vehicle's operating history, including mileage, previous owners, and maintenance history. This helps you evaluate the vehicle's level of use and maintenance.
• Check battery status: Ask about battery life and check their health status. Old batteries can reduce performance and driving time, so you need to make sure they are in good condition.
• Check the charging system: Determine whether the vehicle's charging system is working properly or not. Ask about the type of charger used and the time it takes to fully charge the battery.
• Check the electrical system: Make sure the vehicle's electrical system is working properly, including lights, air conditioning, audio system, and other features.
• Check the steering and braking system: Includes checking the steering system, braking system and suspension system. Make sure the vehicle has good handling and that the systems operate safely.
• Check safety factors: Determine if the vehicle has safety features such as anti-lock braking system (ABS), airbags, traction control system (ESC), and collision warning system.
• Take the car for inspection: If possible, take the vehicle to a professional garage or dealer for a comprehensive inspection. They can identify potential problems and provide detailed information about the vehicle's condition.
• Consider value and price: Compare vehicle prices with similar models to ensure you get the best price.

3.2 How to transfer the name or owner of an old electric car?

According to Circular 58/2020/TT-BCA, buyers and owners of used cars need to prepare the following documents:

• For the buyer: Citizen identification card, purchase price and vehicle transfer fee. 
• For the seller: Original vehicle documents, citizen identification card, household registration book, marriage certificate or single certificate. 
• Application for registration of title transfer and vehicle relocation: Form No. 05/DK-PT.

Procedures for transferring the name of an electric car to the same province/city:

• Step 1: Draft, sign and notarize the vehicle purchase and sale contract.
• Step 2: Pay registration fee.
• Step 3: Submit the application at the Traffic Police Department (CSGT) where the vehicle is registered.
• Step 4: Pay the vehicle registration fee.
• Step 5: Receive new vehicle registration certificate.

Procedures for transferring the name of an electric car to another province/city:

• Step 1: Draft, sign and notarize the vehicle purchase and sale contract
• Step 2: Pay the registration fee at the provincial or city tax department where the new owner is residing in accordance with regulations.
• Step 3: Withdraw the original documents at the Traffic Police Department of the Provincial/City Police where the seller was previously registered.
• Step 4: Submit the vehicle title registration application to the Traffic Police Department of the Provincial/City Police where the buyer currently resides.
• Step 5: Pay the vehicle registration fee.
• Step 6: Receive a new license plate and receive an appointment to get the Vehicle Registration Certificate.
• Step 7: Proceed with vehicle registration procedures (make a registration book) based on the new license plate.

3.3 Should I buy a used electric car or a diesel car?

Choosing between buying a used electric car or a used diesel car depends on many factors, including usage needs, budget and personal preferences. 

If you want a smooth driving experience, protect the environment, and have many charging stations in your living area, you can buy an electric car. If you need a car to travel long distances or regularly carry many people, a diesel car is a more suitable choice.

Based on the characteristics of each car model below, determine whether buying a used electric car or a diesel car is more suitable: 

3.4 Where is a good place to buy used cars?

With many years of experience in the profession, Thanh Phong Auto confidently provides quality electric and diesel cars with beautiful appearance and low prices. 

Advantages of buying used cars at Thanh Phong Auto: 

• Reasonable price, competitive compared to the general market level.
• The used car has a clear, legal origin and has never had a serious accident.
• Used cars have been repaired, maintained and refurbished before being sold. 
• Warranty is thoughtful, duration depends on each vehicle.
• Support procedures for changing ownership, vehicle registration, and insurance (if necessary).
• Assist customers in checking parts.
• Consulting on choosing a car model that suits customers' needs and finances.

Contact Thanh Phong Auto for the best support when you need to buy a used car.