Autotrader’s latest data (August 2026) shows like-for-like used EV prices rose 3.8 percent year on year. Three-to-five year-old electric models — the heart of the used market — rose 9.4 percent year on year to average £20,351. Used EVs continued to sell faster than the wider market at an average of 27 days, with the three-to-five year cohort turning in just 26 days. This means that this summer could turn out to be an important milestone for Britain's transition to electric driving.
A healthy used market benefits far more than second-hand buyers, who already account for the majority of vehicle transactions each year. Stronger residual values reduce the cost of leasing and personal contract purchase finance on new EVs and improve confidence for fleets and lenders. Combined, these factors help to make new electric vehicles more affordable and accessible for households and businesses alike.
The trends suggest used EVs are becoming a mainstream choice for cost-conscious motorists, with rising demand increasingly driven by value and running costs rather than early adopter enthusiasm.
“We've seen the time between us buying an EV and selling it halve to under 30 days” said Martin Miller, Founder of EV Experts. “That's a pretty clear indication of where demand is heading. But speed isn't the only important number. We don't get returns because we spend time with every customer understanding how they'll actually use the car and making sure the EV they buy meets all their needs. Buyers increasingly know they want an EV. Our job is to make sure they buy the right one.”
The improving health of the used EV market comes as record numbers of second-hand electric vehicles change hands across the UK. Increasing consumer awareness, expanding charging infrastructure and lower running costs continue to broaden the appeal of electric driving beyond early adopters.
Industry partners say the latest trends indicate positive momentum for Britain's electric vehicle market. Industry and government are being encouraged to collaborate further to help growing demand, improving residual values and stronger consumer confidence reinforce one another to enable long-term market growth.
“A strong used market means cheaper EVs and that’s a big win for drivers” added Gurjeet Grewal, CEO of Octopus Electric Vehicles. “We’ve seen demand for used EVs jump 150 percent over the last year, showing that drivers are choosing electric for the value it offers, coupled with being a superior technology. A thriving second hand market also helps brings down finance and leasing costs, making new electric cars more affordable and helping more people make the switch. A strong used market is turbo charging the transition and driving thousands more to make the switch from petrol.”
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