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Demand for second-hand EVs via The Electric Car Scheme has soared by 300%
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Greater availability and reduced pricing drive adoption
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Affordability remains the top concern for the majority of potential EV drivers
According to new insights from EV salary sacrifice provider The Electric Car Scheme, there has been a dramatic rise in interest in used electric vehicles, with orders tripling over the past 12 months. This trend has been bolstered by lower pricing and a marked improvement in availability, offering an attractive route into electric motoring without long lead times.
Used electric cars now represent approximately half of all EV orders through the scheme. Inventory has grown substantially too—more than 500 second-hand models are now available through salary sacrifice, with stock increasing by over 200% in just one month.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reports that battery electric vehicles are the UK’s fastest-growing used car category, rising by 58.5% year-on-year. When combined with tax-efficient salary sacrifice options, buyers can unlock further savings of up to 50% compared to standard prices.
The growth is most pronounced among those on modest incomes. The Electric Car Scheme notes that 70% of used EV orders come from employees within the basic income tax bracket (under £50,270). This shift reflects how more affordable pre-owned electric vehicles are enabling broader access. Supporting this, their research shows that 54% of UK residents list cost as the primary barrier to purchasing an EV.
Affordability in Action: Salary Sacrifice Savings on Popular Models
To highlight how the scheme improves affordability, The Electric Car Scheme compared prices for several well-known EVs. An individual earning £40,000 annually could see savings nearing 50%.
A new Skoda Enyaq typically leases for £567 per month, but a used version via salary sacrifice comes to just £292—a 49% reduction. The Volkswagen ID.4 falls from £506 to £296 (42% saved), while a Mercedes EQA drops from £528 to £339 per month (36% saved).
Commenting on the trend, Thom Groot, CEO and Co-Founder of The Electric Car Scheme, said:
“We know that affordability is the biggest barrier to people getting an EV, so it is not surprising that as the price falls and availability increases, more and more people are opting for a used model. It also speaks to the increasing quality of EVs and tech that these models possess, with more people than ever feeling confident in making the switch.
“A strong second hand market is key to the growth of EV uptake and reaching ZEV goals by 2030, so this is a positive step. Salary sacrifice is going to be key to this, and the growing demand is an indication that it is increasingly recognised as the best way to get an EV, used or otherwise.”
