The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is gaining momentum in India, and used electric cars are becoming an increasingly attractive option. But before you jump in and snag a pre-owned EV, it's important to weigh the pros and cons. Let's go through the pros and cons in this article.

In the Indian market, electric cars are gaining serious traction. But what if a brand new EV isn't quite in your budget?

Even though a subsidiary like FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles) promotes EVs with benefits like low running costs and minimal maintenance, skepticism lingers among Indian consumers. This hesitation isn't just impacting sales of new EVs, but also hindering the growth of the pre-owned electric vehicle market.

The biggest hurdle for the used electric car market in India stems from battery trust. Unlike an internal combustion engine, a worn-out battery pack in an EV can significantly impact range and overall performance. While manufacturers offer warranties on batteries (typically 3-8 years or 100,000-150,000 kms), anxieties linger about battery health and potential replacement costs beyond the warranty period. These costs can be substantial, and information on battery degradation rates for specific models in Indian conditions is scarce.

This skepticism isn't entirely unfounded. The relative newness of EV technology in India fuels uncertainty. People are accustomed to reliable used petrol and diesel cars, and the long-term viability of EVs remains a question mark for many.

Before You Plug In: Key Considerations Before Buying a Used Electric Car

Unlike buying a used gasoline car, EVs come with a new set of considerations. Before you take the plunge, here are some key parameters to measure to ensure you're making a smart and sustainable choice: Battery Health: This is the holy grail of used EV shopping. The battery pack is the most expensive component, and its health directly impacts the car's range and performance. Ask for the car's service history and any available battery health reports. Consider getting a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified EV mechanic who can assess the battery's remaining capacity and potential degradation rate.

Reason for Selling: A convincing reason for selling is crucial. Ideally, the previous owner is upgrading to a newer EV model or their driving needs have changed. Avoid cars with unclear reasons for selling, especially if they seem related to battery performance issues.

Warranty Status: Check if any remaining battery or overall vehicle warranty can be transferred to you. A transferable warranty provides peace of mind and can potentially cover unexpected repair costs.

Charging Capabilities: Research the car's charging capabilities. Does it support both AC and DC fast charging? How long does it take to charge to full using your available charging options (home charger, public stations)? Make sure the car's charging capabilities align with your daily driving needs and access to charging infrastructure.

Overall Vehicle Condition: While battery health is paramount, don't neglect the car's overall condition. Get a thorough inspection to check for any existing mechanical or electrical problems, body damage, and tire wear. Remember, a well-maintained car, regardless of fuel type, is a reliable car.