You are keen to buy an electric car and are faced with the decision: should it be a brand new EV or will a used electric car suffice? At first glance, used electric vehicles appear to be an attractive alternative – after all, they are significantly cheaper than new cars.
However, the used electric car market in Switzerland also has its drawbacks. What happens if the battery shows signs of degradation or if unexpected electric car repair costs arise? What about the battery capacity after years of use? And are second-hand electric vehicles really the best solution for your first foray into the world of sustainable mobility?
In fact, used electric cars can definitely make sense – provided you know the risks and assess them correctly. But there’s actually an even better alternative that offers a completely risk-free introduction to green mobility and is even cheaper than you may have assumed.
Used electric cars: what are the arguments in favour?
The most obvious advantage of a used electric car is the price. Whereas new electric cars often come with high purchase costs, you can save significantly on used electric vehicles. The depreciation that takes place within the first few years has already occurred – and you get to take advantage of this.
This offers you the chance to drive higher-quality electric vehicles that may have been out of budget as new cars. A used Tesla Model 3 or Audi e-tron will cost considerably less than the same models purchased straight out of the showroom.
Proven technology in the used EV market
Another plus point: used electric cars feature technology that has already been tried and tested. The teething problems occasionally suffered by new models have already been identified and often remedied. You can already find accurate testimonials regarding their actual range and everyday behaviour online.
The used electric car market in Switzerland now offers a solid selection of tested models. From compact electric vehicles to spacious second-hand SUVs – the variety is growing all the time.
The risks of used electric cars
Used electric vehicles do have their place – but as with any used car purchase, there are important points you should bear in mind. A well-informed decision is the key to success when it comes to used electric cars.
Battery life: better than expected
The battery is the heart of every electric car. This is often a point of concern – however, such fears are unfounded, as modern electric car batteries last much longer than many people think. A VW ID.3, for example, still had 91% of its original battery capacity after 160,000 kilometres.
The problem with used electric vehicles is that you often don’t know how intensively the vehicle has been used. Was it charged primarily at quick-charging stations? How many charging cycles has the battery already completed?
The good news: reputable providers Clyde, an AMAG company, equip all their used electric cars with a tested and certified battery. This provides transparency concerning the actual battery condition.
Additional costs with used electric vehicles
As with any used car – whether powered by an electric or a combustion engine – there are additional costs to be considered on top of the purchase price. Electric car repair costs are similar to costs for conventional vehicles, in spite of the fact that they generally have fewer wearing parts.
Here’s a point to bear in mind when purchasing a used electric car: software updates are usually free of charge for new electric cars, but may incur fees for older models. This is not unlike older combustion-engine models, where new map updates or features are also subject to a fee.
You will already be familiar with the common utility costs from any previous car purchases: insurance, taxes, registration and servicing. This is where used electric cars don’t differ from other used cars – these costs are incurred in addition to the purchase price.
Used electric cars: proper preparation is key
A used electric vehicle can be a wise alternative to an expensive new car – provided you’re well-informed. A thorough battery test and review of all documentation are essential. With the right preparation, most problems can be avoided.
If you want to be on the safe side, however, there is an even better alternative: a solution that eliminates all uncertainties and is often even cheaper.
The better alternative: the ideal introduction to e-mobility
Are you looking for the perfect, risk-free introduction to e-mobility? The electric car subscription from Clyde eliminates all the uncertainties associated with used electric cars. As the most sustainable electric car subscription in Switzerland, we offer green mobility with no hidden costs.
The risk-free path to electromobility
With a Clyde car subscription, you will always be driving an electric car with full battery capacity and a manufacturer’s warranty. Battery problems or unexpected electric car repair costs? Not an issue. You get a fixed monthly rate that really does cover everything.
This is the ideal solution, especially for drivers who are new to e-mobility. You get to try out sustainable mobility without any stress, and without making a long-term commitment. After the minimum subscription period, you can easily switch or cancel.
Flexibility to get you started
With subscription periods from three months, you can try out various electric car models without any risk. From the compact VW ID.3 to the spacious Audi Q6 e-tron – find out which electric car suits your lifestyle.
Popular used electric vehicles in Switzerland
If you are considering a used electric car, you should know which models have proven successful. Here are the most popular used electric vehicles in the used electric car market – all of which are also available with an electric car subscription from Clyde. With Clyde, you only get quality used cars: every electric car is professionally reconditioned, technically tested and delivered with a certified battery.
Compact used electric cars
VW ID.3 – the classic used electric vehicle. With a range of up to 425 km (WLTP) and proven VW quality, this is a solid choice for everyday use.
CUPRA Born – the sporty alternative with a range of up to 548 km. Dynamic design meets everyday practicality.
Used mid-range EVs and electric SUVs
Audi Q4 e-tron – spacious premium SUV with a range of 488 km. Elegant design with high-quality workmanship.
Škoda Enyaq – practical family SUV with a range of up to 529 km. Excellent value for money and plenty of space for the whole family.
The smart choice: all models from Clyde
Instead of looking for used electric vehicles, Clyde lets you drive all popular models without any risk concerning the battery and with everything included.
Conclusion
Used electric cars can be a sensible alternative to expensive new cars. Modern electric car batteries last longer than many fear, and you can pick up tested vehicles from reputable providers.
Nevertheless, there remain uncertainties when it comes to used electric cars: battery degradation, possible electric car repair costs and unknown charging histories. These risks are difficult to assess for those who are new to e-mobility.
The electric car subscription from Clyde eliminates the uncertainty: electric cars with full battery capacity, service included and even electricity included in the price on request – no other provider offers all this. With flexible subscription periods starting from three months, you can enjoy picking out your perfect electric car with complete peace of mind.
Frequently asked questions
A used electric car can be worthwhile if the battery still has more than 80% of its original capacity and the purchase price is significantly below the value of the new car. It is important to have a professional battery check before buying.
Clyde’s electric car subscription completely eliminates these risks.
Modern electric car batteries last 8–15 years or 150.000–300.000 kilometres. A VW ID.3 still had 91% battery capacity after 160.000 km. Actual life depends on charging habits and usage.
Used electric cars in Switzerland cost CHF 15,000–45,000, depending on the model and age. A used VW ID.3 starts at about CHF 20,000. In addition, there are costs for insurance, service and possible repairs.
With Clyde, you get an electric car as a subscription from just CHF 400 per month – with everything included and no battery risk.
The biggest risks associated with second-hand electric cars are:
- Battery degradation (loss of capacity)
- Unknown charging history
- High repair costs in case of battery damage
- Outdated software without updates
- Lack of warranty
Yes, used electric cars are 30–50% cheaper than new cars. A new VW ID.3 costs CHF 35,000, used from CHF 20,000. However, second-hand cars come with additional risks and costs that can reduce the savings potential.
The best used electric cars are:
- VW ID.3: Up to 425 km range, good value for money
- Audi Q4 e-tron: premium SUV with 488 km range
- Škoda Enyaq: family car with up to 529 km range
- Tesla Model 3: Up to 614 km range, proven technology
Used electric cars can be found at:
- Online platforms such as
- AutoScout24
- AMAG Occasions Center
- Private (high risk)
Tip: At AMAG and Clyde you get tested electric cars with battery certificates.
The best alternative to a used electric car is the electric car subscription from Clyde. You drive electric cars with full battery power, service included and, if desired, even with electricity. Terms from one month allow risk-free testing of different models.
Fancy trying out an electric car?
Is e-mobility slowly but surely winning you over? But you want to test whether an electric car will suit you and your lifestyle first? Then you’re in the right place with Clyde.
Right now you can benefit from unbeatable prices with a contract term of 3 or 6 months. Give your electric car a proper test run and see for yourself.
