Used Electric Cars For Sale By Owner

Buy your next electric vehicle (EV) directly from a private seller and enjoy the convenience and security of our transactional marketplace. Browse used electric vehicles for sale by owner.

There are four main categories of electric vehicles, classified by powertrain type:

1. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs). BEVs, also called all-electric vehicles, run entirely on electricity stored in rechargeable batteries. They have no gasoline engine and produce zero driving emissions. Popular BEV models include the Tesla Model 3 and Nissan Leaf.
2. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). PHEVs combine an electric motor and rechargeable battery with a gasoline engine. They operate on battery power until depleted then switch to the gas engine. PHEVs include the Chevrolet Volt and BMW i8.
3. Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). HEVs utilize both an internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors powered by a non-plug-in battery. The battery charges through regenerative braking and the gas engine. The Toyota Prius is a well-known HEV.
4. Fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). FCEVs generate electricity for propulsion via an onboard fuel cell powered by hydrogen. A hydrogen fuel cell vehicle emits only water vapor. FCEVs include models such as the Toyota Mirai.

Usually, when people discuss electric vehicle options, they’re referring to BEVs. Hybrids are not true electric vehicles, since they still have an internal combustion engine. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles currently represent a very small portion of the overall EV market.

Some models are available in more than one EV type. For example, the Kia Niro offers multiple electrified powertrains. The Niro is available as a hybrid (HEV), a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and a fully electric vehicle (EV), catering to a range of consumer preferences and needs.

Electric vehicles have pros and cons, but in general offer performance, economic, and convenience advantages over traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.

EVs save drivers money in two key areas: fuel and maintenance.

EVs have a mixed environmental impact when compared to their internal combustion counterparts. The net effect seems to be positive, but it’s a good idea to weigh all the following factors.

Electric vehicles offer several key performance advantages over traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles:

EV owners can conveniently plug in and charge at home nightly. Pre-conditioning warms or cools the interior before driving while still plugged in. Their exceptionally quiet motors contribute to peaceful neighborhoods without engine noise.

Here are some trends we can look forward to in the near future with electric cars.

1. Mass adoption and market diversity: as costs decrease, EVs are becoming affordable for more consumers globally. EVs could constitute a large portion of new car sales by 2030, potentially surpassing internal combustion engines in some regions. The EV market revenue is projected to reach $623 billion worldwide by 2024, with a steady 9.8% annual growth expected through 2028.
2. Advancements in battery technology: developments in solid-state, silicon anode, and lithium-sulfur batteries aim to improve density, lifespan, sustainability, and charging speed. Battery recycling is also being explored.
3. Greater diversity: the number of EV models available has surpassed 500 in 2022, up from below 450 in 2021, providing more consumer choice. This trend is expected to accelerate.
4. Technological innovations: vehicle-to-grid connectivity, advanced driver assistance systems, innovative motors, and other emerging technologies will make EVs increasingly attractive to consumers.
5. Improving prices: falling battery materials costs could improve EV profit margins and consumer affordability over time.
6. Increasing efficiency and range: over the past decade, average EV efficiency has increased by 15% and the range has doubled. We can expect both efficiency and range to continue to increase.
7. Innovations in charging: future innovations such as wireless charging and ultrafast charging will enhance the EV experience.

New EV brands continue to emerge, and traditional car brands continue to enter the EV market. Here are the brands that manufacture electric vehicles.

The following electric vehicles are frequently cited as best in class in the electric vehicle market.

1. Tesla Model 3: Tesla's Model 3 is often praised for its long range, high performance, and access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network. It offers a good balance of range, charging speed, and overall efficiency.
2. Hyundai Ioniq 5: Hyundai's Ioniq 5 has been recognized for its ultra-fast charging capabilities and distinctive design. It also offers a spacious interior and advanced technology features.
3. Kia EV6: The Kia EV6 shares its platform with the Ioniq 5 and is praised for its performance, range, and charging speed. It has a sporty design and a high-quality interior. The Kia EV6 Wind is a popular trim.
4. Ford Mustang Mach-E: The Mustang Mach-E combines the iconic Mustang brand with electric performance. It has been noted for its driving dynamics, range options, and user-friendly technology.
5. Audi e-tron: the Audi e-tron offers a premium interior, advanced technology, and a smooth ride. It's a luxury SUV that provides a balance of performance and comfort.
6. Volkswagen ID.4: the ID.4 is Volkswagen's entry into the electric SUV market, offering a practical range, spacious interior, and intuitive infotainment system. It's designed to be a family-friendly electric vehicle.
7. Chevrolet Bolt: the Chevy Bolt is an affordable option in the EV market, offering a competitive range and a compact size that's ideal for city driving.
8. Nissan Leaf: the Nissan Leaf is one of the world's best-selling electric cars, known for its affordability and reliability. It's a good entry-level option for those new to electric vehicles.
9. Lucid Air: Lucid Motors' Air is a luxury electric sedan that boasts impressive range and performance figures, along with a high-quality, tech-forward interior.
10. Rivian R1T: Rivian's R1T is an all-electric pickup truck that offers off-road capability, innovative storage solutions, and a range suitable for long trips.

Budget electric cars start in the high-$20K range (new) and go up from there. Here are the new MSRP prices for some of the more affordable EVs on the market:

Electric vehicles offer driving ranges spanning 100 to more than 500 miles per charge. Range varies based on vehicle type, battery size, efficiency, and conditions. Let’s look at some specifics

If you’re going to be an electric vehicle owner, you’ll need to make your home charging-ready. Key steps include the following:

Install a home EV charger, also called an Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE), for convenient overnight charging. The EVSE gets mounted in a garage, carport, or outdoor area based on home layout and charger weatherproof rating.

EV chargers range from $350–$700 depending on charging speed, connector type, and smart features. Certified electrician installation runs $500–$2,500 for the approximately 3-hour process.

Your existing electrical service must be assessed to see if it is adequate for the added EV charging load. Homes with under 100-amp panels may need to be upgraded to larger capacity electrical service. This can cost $3,000 or more.

EV chargers allow connecting the vehicle to the electrical grid via smart charging capabilities. This allows homeowners to control charging times to optimize electricity costs and battery health. Energy management platforms provide battery and charging insights.

Once the right charger amperage is determined based on the home's electrical capacity and the electric vehicle's maximum onboard charging rate, select an appropriate Level 2 wall-mounted charger. Consider the following factors:

1. Charging connector type (J1772, NACS, Tesla) to match the vehicle's charge port. Adapters allow flexibility across standards.
2. Hardwired or plug-connected installation depending on the situation.
3. Smart capabilities like charge scheduling, power sharing, and connectivity preferences.
4. The vehicle's charge port type—J1772 and Tesla being common up until recently versus the newly emerging NACS standard—should be matched by the EVSE unit or an adapter used if there’s incompatibility.

When installing a Level 2 charger, you’ll need to decide between hardwiring it to your home’s power supply or using a plug-in attachment. Here are the pros and cons of each:

1. Hardwired home EV chargers get permanently connected to your home's electrical wiring by an electrician. No plug is used that can be unplugged; the wiring is directly integrated. Hardwiring usually costs less money and lets more power flow for faster charging. But it means that the charger stays fixed in that location.
2. Plug-in home EV chargers use an attached cable and standardized "NEMA" plug, like those powering appliances or dryers. The plug lets you conveniently disconnect and potentially move the charger. However, a plug connection may restrict electricity capacity compared to direct hardwiring.

Here are some well-respected home charging stations. Do your research to ensure compatibility with your EV.

1. ChargePoint Home Flex: offers up to 50 amps of power and can deliver a range of 37 miles per hour of charging. It's also WiFi-enabled, allowing you to control and schedule charging from your phone.
2. JuiceBox 40: provides 40 amps of power and can deliver a range of 30 miles per hour of charging. It also has WiFi connectivity for remote control and scheduling.
3. Siemens VersiCharge: offers 30 amps of power and can deliver a range of 22 miles per hour of charging. It's not WiFi-enabled, but it does have a delay function that allows you to schedule charging.
4. Bosch Power Max 2: provides 40 amps of power and can deliver a range of 30 miles per hour of charging. It doesn't have WiFi connectivity, but it does have a compact design and is relatively affordable.
5. Tesla Wall Connector: offers up to 48 amps of power and can deliver a range of 44 miles per hour of charging. Only compatible with Tesla vehicles.

If you’re planning to buy an electric car, you have the following options:

1. Buy a new EV from a dealership: for brands that use the dealership model, such as Ford, Nissan, and GM
2. Buy a new EV directly from the manufacturer: for brands that use the direct-to-consumer model, such as Tesla, Polestar, and Rivian
3. Buy a used EV from a dealer
4. Buy a used electric vehicle from a private seller

If you’re buying new and know which vehicle you want, your choice is made. You’ll be buying from a dealership or directly from the manufacturer—depending on your chosen brand’s distribution model.

If you’re buying used, you’re usually better off buying from a private seller. Here at PrivateAuto, we make the private-party transaction easy and secure. Skip the dealer documentation fee and markup and get more EV for your buck when you transact peer-to-peer on PrivateAuto.

From instant payments to secure communications, we give you the power to drive the deal on your terms. That’s why we’re the best place to buy a used car (including an electric car) online.
We have a wide selection of non-electric vehicles for sale as well. Browse our full selection of vehicles for sale by owner.

If you want to sell your electric car, you can get way more for it by going directly to a private buyer than you could with a dealer trade-in.

Dealers have to buy low so they can mark your car up and make a profit. When you sell directly to the end user, you capture that extra profit.

PrivateAuto gives you dealer-like convenience in the palm of your hand, so you can sell your EV on your terms.


Even better, you can list your car on other marketplaces. If you find a buyer, you can use our DealNow feature to invite the buyer to a fast-tracked dealflow that gives you all the advantages of our transactional infrastructure.

Create your listing on PrivateAuto now and see how easy selling your EV can be.