Used electric cars: the battery IS the car
Battery state of health, charging history and the separate battery warranty: what really needs checking when buying a used EV.
In a used electric car the motor is almost never the question: the battery is. It's the most expensive component and its condition defines real range and resale value. Buying an EV without battery data is buying blind.
SoH: ask for the number, not the vibe
State of Health expresses how much capacity the battery keeps versus new. It comes from a diagnostic — many makers provide it at a dealership or via the app — and it is the figure you want in writing. “It charges fine” is not data.
The battery warranty is separate
Most manufacturers warrant the battery for more years and kilometres than the rest of the car, with a capacity threshold. Check how much of that warranty remains and whether it transfers: an EV inside battery warranty is a much calmer purchase.
Charging history matters, with nuance
Constant rapid charging stresses a battery more than slow home charging. You won't always know the history, but the previous use profile (taxi/ride-hailing versus urban private) is a reasonable clue.
The rest of the inspection
Tyres (instant torque eats them), brakes (paradoxically underused: rust from idleness), software updates current. And the same administrative checks as any used car: DGT report, liens, roadworthiness. An electric car can carry a lien too.