As the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) grows, discerning buyers are increasingly looking towards the second-hand market for more affordable entry points. For those seeking a used EV in Australia with a minimum range of 120 kilometres, the choices become more nuanced, particularly when aiming for a budget-friendly price point.
### Exploring Budget-Friendly Second-Hand EVs
A common query in the pre-owned electric vehicle space revolves around finding models that balance cost with sufficient range for daily needs. While the allure of ultra-cheap EVs is strong, achieving a reliable 120 km range often requires a careful assessment of older models and their battery health.
### Early Models and Range Limitations
The earliest significant electric vehicle offerings in Australia, such as the 2011-12 Nissan Leaf ZE0 and the 2010-13 Mitsubishi iMiEV, can typically be found for under $10,000. However, their original batteries have likely degraded, meaning their current usable range may fall significantly short of the desired 120 km. If these models have had battery replacements or upgrades, prices can jump to between $17,000 and $20,000.
For instance, a 2010 Mitsubishi iMiEV with its original battery offers a reliable range of approximately 70 km, a notable decrease from its initial 110 km capacity.
### Japanese Imports and Battery Considerations
A step up in the second-hand market involves considering private imports of the AZE0 Nissan Leaf from Japan, typically from 2014-2017. These vehicles, priced between $10,000 and $15,000, benefit from later battery chemistries that are less prone to degradation. While they might currently meet the 120 km range requirement, this could diminish over time. Later AZE0 models with 30 kWh batteries (offering around 170 km range) are also available at the higher end of this price bracket.
However, these Japanese imports can present challenges. Some models include features or parts not found in Australian-delivered versions, such as the 30 kWh battery. This can complicate parts sourcing, and many official Nissan dealerships may not service them, necessitating a search for EV-trained independent mechanics, which can be difficult outside metropolitan areas.
### The BMW i3: An Innovative but Pricey Option
The original BMW i3 (60Ah version, 2013-2016) stands out as a well-regarded option for maintaining range, often exceeding 120 km. However, these vehicles typically command prices upwards of $17,000, pushing them into a price bracket where more modern EVs become accessible.
### Expanding the Budget for Modern EVs
For a budget of $18,000 to $20,000, buyers can access a wider array of EVs from the ‘modern era’ (2018 onwards). These vehicles often feature comparable technology, batteries, and features to current models and have seen significant depreciation, making them attractive in the used market.
Potential candidates in this price range include:
* **Hyundai Ioniq (28 kWh or 38 kWh battery):** These are highly recommended, offering reliable ranges of 200 km or 280 km respectively. Ex-lease models are frequently available at auction houses like Manheim’s or Pickles for around $18,000.
* **MG ZS EV (early 2020/1 models):** Available from approximately $19,000 on the general market (and potentially less at auction), the ZS EV is a capable option. While competitive, the Ioniq might offer better value for money, though the ZS provides an SUV-like body style.
* **Renault Zoe (2017-2019):** A lesser-known but capable contender, the Zoe typically retains its original 280-300 km range. These models can be found for around $20,000 in the general market and less at auction.
* **Nissan Leaf ZE1 (current model):** Earlier versions of the current generation Leaf can be found for under $20,000 at auction. It’s crucial to verify whether the model is Australian- or Japanese-market, as the 40 kWh Japanese version features a slower onboard charger.
### Assessing Battery Health
When considering a used EV, particularly from auction houses like Pickles, look for State of Health (SoH) reports for the battery. These reports can offer valuable insights into the battery’s degradation. For private or dealer purchases, a pre-purchase inspection that includes a battery SoH assessment can provide crucial peace of mind regarding the vehicle’s long-term range capability.