Used Electric Vehicle Research and Insights

Why Buy a Used Electric Vehicle

Considering buying a electric car? Get all the benefits of buying an EV with a lower price when you buy a used electric vehicle.

What are the benefits of buying a used electric vehicle?

EVs have many of environmental, financial, and performance-related advantages. At Flow BMW, we believe that EVs will play an important role in the future of driving. EVs offer eco-friendly performance with zero emissions, cutting-edge technology, and the convenience of home charging. Feel the thrill of instant torque and smooth acceleration while contributing to a sustainable environment. Additionally, EVs offer substantial savings on fuel and maintenance. When you buy a used EV at Flow BMW, you gain access to all these exciting EV benefits at a more affordable price.

Keep reading to find our more about the benefits of owning a used electric car, as well as the differences between electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid cars. As your trusted BMW dealership, we're here to answer any questions you may have.
What can I expect owning an EV?

  • Environmental benefits: EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to improved air quality. Additionally EVs reduce reliance on fossil fuels, which contributes to a healthier environment.
  • Savings on Fuel: Did you know the average US household spends around one-fifth of its income on transportation? An electric car can save on average $1,000 in fuel each year. Electricity is cheaper and less volatile than gasoline, which makes budgeting for an EV easier and more consistent.
  • Enhanced performance: EVs offer rapid acceleration without the need for gear shifts, providing instant 100% torque. EV batteries ensure a quieter and more comfortable ride compared to most combustion engine vehicles. The electric motor combined with the absence of gear shifts creates an exceptionally smooth driving experience.

Black BMW vehicle plugged in and charging in a garage 

How to Charge an EV

Is it easy to charge an electric car?

The short answer is yes! With the rise in popularity of EVs, there are more and more options when it comes to charging your electric vehicle. 

When considering how to charge an electric car, it's important to explore the diverse options available to ensure you keep your vehicle ready for the road. Home charging stations are a convenient and popular solution. With Level 1 chargers, you can use a standard 120-volt outlet to charge your car overnight, though this method can be slow. Alternatively, Level 2 chargers require a 240-volt outlet and significantly reduce charging time, often fully charging your vehicle in a few hours.

Public charging stations offer additional flexibility and are becoming increasingly widespread. These stations typically feature both Level 2 chargers and DC fast chargers. DC fast chargers are particularly advantageous for their ability to rapidly charge an electric car, often reaching 80% battery capacity in about 30 minutes, making them ideal for quick stops during long trips.

By understanding and utilizing these various charging methods-home charging, public charging stations, and workplace charging-you can efficiently manage your electric car's power needs and enjoy a seamless and convenient driving experience. Still curious about electric charging? Check out this EV Charging Guide from Car and Driver.

EV vs. Hybird vs. Plug-In Hybrid

What are the differences between electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid vehicles? This is a common question for those looking to make a switch to the world of EVs, so we've broken down some of the key differences.

 All-Electric Hybrid Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV)
  • All-electric, powered by battery
  • Typically 200-300 miles on a full charge
  • Zero tailpipe emissions
  • Must be charged via home charger or public station
  • Most environmentally friendly
  • Best for those prioritizing environmental impact and low operating costs, with access to charging infrastructure
  • Combination of internal combustion engine and electric motor
  • Comparable to traditional gasoline vehicles
  • Lower emissions than conventional vehicles
  • Charges through regenerative braking and engine
  • More environmentally friendly than conventional vehicles
  • Ideal for those looking for improved fuel efficiency without changing driving habits
  • Combination of internal combustion engine and larger battery with electric motor
  • Electric-only range of 20-50 miles, then gasoline engine extends range
  • Lower emissions, especially in electric mode
  • Needs external charging plus regenerative braking and gasoline engine
  • Environmentally friendly, especially when used in electric mode
  • Suited for drivers wanting electric driving benefits without range anxiety 
   
 Still have questions about what kind of electric vehicle is best for you? Don't hesitate to contact us at Flow BMW. Our expert staff is happy to assist you with any concerns you may have. We also encourage you to check out this EV vs. Hybird vs. Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle guide from Consumer Reports.

Buying A Used Electric or Hybrid Vehicle

Purchasing a used electric car can seem intimidating, especially if it's your first EV. However, buying used is a great way to gain access to all the benefits of an EV at a lower price tag. 

When buying a used EV, there are a few things you should consider:
  • Evaluate the total cost of ownership, factoring in savings on fuel and maintenance, to assess the vehicle's overall value.
  • Research the battery health of the used electric vehicle and confirm the remaining warranty coverage before making a purchase.
  • Assess your daily range requirements and consider the vehicle's charging speed to ensure it meets your needs.
We recommend drivers interested in buying a used electric car check out this Kelley Blue Book article that details everything shoppers need to know before buying a used EV. 
a woman and man charging their electric BMW vehicles in a parking lot. They are standing next to their cars and smiling 
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    Winston-Salem, NC 27127

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