RAC Praises Used Nissan Leaf as 'Extremely Likeable' and Five Times Cheaper Than Rivals
The RAC has unveiled its selection of the finest used electric vehicles currently available in the UK, with the Nissan Leaf emerging as a standout choice due to its remarkably low starting price of just £1,700. This figure is significantly lower than many competitors, including models from Vauxhall and MG, making it an enticing option for budget-conscious motorists.
The Rise of Affordable Electric Vehicles
Since electric vehicles began reappearing on British roads in substantial numbers during the 2010s, after an absence of nearly a century, they have captured the imagination of drivers across the nation. However, the cost of purchasing an EV has often been a barrier for many, with numerous models carrying higher price tags than their petrol or diesel counterparts.
Even when buyers had the necessary funds, they might have chosen to invest in a nearly new used petrol vehicle that offered superior features. Fortunately, the landscape is changing, as thousands of electric vehicles have now entered the second-hand market, providing more accessible options for savvy consumers.
Nissan Leaf: A Pioneer in the Electric Revolution
In its comprehensive guide to the top used electric cars, the RAC has spotlighted the Nissan Leaf, one of the earliest mass-produced electric vehicles of the 21st century. This model has been hailed by many as a catalyst for the electric revolution in Britain, thanks to its relative affordability and pioneering spirit when it launched into a market where few other major manufacturers were willing to venture.
Lawrence Allan, commenting on the Leaf, observed: "It's hard to believe that the sort of budget that buys you a rusty, polluting old banger can get you into a smooth-driving, eco-friendly electric car. But the popularity of the original Nissan Leaf means there are plenty around at near rock-bottom prices."
Significant Price Differences and Practical Considerations
The Leaf, which first entered showrooms in the early 2010s, can now be acquired for approximately £1,700. This price is roughly four to five times less expensive than the £7,000 MG 5 and the £8,000 electric Vauxhall Corsa, both of which are also featured on the RAC's list.
However, Lawrence cautioned that this substantial price difference comes with certain geographical and practical limitations. He explained: "It's worth remembering that these early 24kWH Leafs didn't have the longest of ranges when they were new. After well over a decade of use, you could see anything from 100 miles from a charge in stop-start urban driving, where EVs perform best, to below 50 miles on the motorway."
Consequently, while the savings offered by the Leaf are appealing, potential buyers must consider that it may not provide the same level of flexibility as its more expensive competitors.
Ongoing Praise for the Nissan Leaf
In a recent assessment of the latest Nissan Leaf model, the RAC continued to commend the vehicle, awarding it 8.5 stars out of 10. Dan Powell noted: "The Nissan Leaf is an extremely likeable electric car. Effortless to drive and extremely refined, it is a well-rounded effort that reaffirms the Leaf's place as a market-leading EV. Its smooth and soft driving manners may leave some enthusiastic drivers cold, but we think the Leaf's low running costs and upmarket interior will win over the majority of family car buyers."
Future Trends in the Used EV Market
The RAC's recommendations come several months after a motoring expert predicted that the prices of numerous used electric vehicles could experience a significant decline, creating new opportunities for buyers across the country. Speaking to the Express last year, Patrick Cresswell, co-founder of ClearWatt, revealed that recent stock from just a few years ago is now entering the second-hand market.
He explained: "March of 2022 broke all the records for new EV sales, with more battery-powered vehicles sold in that month alone than all of 2019 - and much of that stock is now hitting the second-hand market, as three-year lease terms expire." He added: "We estimate 350,000 used EVs will be sold this year - and up to 40,000 could be in March alone."
This influx of used electric vehicles is expected to further drive down prices and increase accessibility, making sustainable motoring a more viable option for a broader range of consumers.
