The growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) worldwide is creating a new market for used electric cars, and Uganda is no exception. While sales of new EVs are increasing, the demand for used electric vehicles is also on the rise, thanks to improvements in battery technology, longer warranties, and cost savings. However, is a used electric car a smart investment for Ugandan drivers? Let's explore the factors you should consider before making the switch.

Is an Electric Car Right for You?

There are several advantages to driving an electric car. They are generally cheaper to charge, offer a smoother driving experience, and contribute to better air quality. For many Ugandans, a second-hand electric car could be an affordable way to transition away from petrol or diesel vehicles. However, it's important to assess whether an electric car would suit your driving habits and budget.

One of the key considerations is your daily driving distance. In Kampala, the average daily car journey is about 40 kilometers. For those who drive shorter distances regularly, most used electric cars can easily meet their range requirements. If you often embark on longer trips, it is crucial to look for an electric vehicle with sufficient range, or even consider hybrid options as an interim solution while transitioning to fully electric vehicles.

For households with multiple cars, having an electric vehicle for daily commutes and a petrol car for longer trips can be a balanced approach. In this scenario, an electric car would complement your existing vehicle fleet.

We discuss more on this topic in our other article: Before You Buy an Electric Car in Uganda, Ask These Questions.

Potential Long-Term Savings with a Used EV

Although a used electric car may initially cost more than a used petrol-powered car, the long-term savings often justify the higher upfront investment. Here are some key areas where savings can be made:

• Maintenance Savings: Electric vehicles generally have lower maintenance costs because they don’t require oil changes and have fewer components that could fail. The use of regenerative braking, which recaptures energy, also leads to slower wear and tear on brake pads.
• Fuel Savings: Depending on factors such as vehicle type and driving habits, using an electric vehicle could save you up to 40% on fuel costs annually. Charging an EV is considerably cheaper than refueling a petrol car, especially if you have access to home charging.

Are Used Electric Cars Reliable?

A common concern for buyers considering a used electric car is the battery's lifespan. Many people fear that electric vehicle batteries, like those in mobile phones, degrade rapidly over time. However, studies and real-world experiences suggest otherwise.

Electric car batteries are designed to last between 15 and 20 years, with most manufacturers offering warranties for eight years or up to 100,000 miles (160,000 kilometers). Even after the warranty expires, it does not mean the battery is nearing the end of its useful life. Research has shown that battery degradation in EVs occurs slowly. For instance, a study by Geotab, a vehicle data company, found that most electric car batteries lose only 1-2% of their capacity each year. This suggests that a ten-year-old electric vehicle would still retain around 90% of its original battery capacity.

Used EV Batteries Are Important note, but Not Scary

Reliability will depend on the make and condition of the car, though a vehicle inspection's reliability score can provide a useful guide. Although an EV battery gradually loses the ability to fully charge charge decreasing the driving range, battery degradation doesn’t happen overnight, and it won’t leave you stranded on the road. If you focus on lightly used EVs, there’s a good chance the battery is still under warranty (warranty from the manufacturer doesn’t apply for used cars in Uganda). Even if the warranty has expired, it doesn’t mean the battery is near death.

What to Consider When Buying a Used EV

To avoid potential issues when purchasing a used electric car, there are several key factors to check:

1.   Battery Health: The battery is the most expensive component in an electric vehicle. Ensure the car's battery is in good condition by checking its state of health using a battery diagnostic tool or app, such as Nissan Leaf's Leaf Spy.

2.   Vehicle History: Obtain a full service history to confirm that the car has been well maintained. Also, check for any accidents or repairs that may affect the vehicle’s condition.

3.   Mileage and Age: Ideally, aim for a used electric vehicle with less than 50,000 kilometers on the odometer. Cars with higher mileage, up to 80,000 kilometers, can still be a good buy if they have been well-maintained. Checking the mileage is helpful, but it doesn't guarantee good battery health; you need to know the battery's state of health, which is often displayed in the car's system.

4.   Test Drive: Take the car for an extended test drive under conditions similar to your typical driving patterns. This helps evaluate the vehicle's performance, range, and battery consumption.

Importing vs. Buying Locally

In Uganda, you have the option to import a used electric car or buy one locally. Importing a used electric vehicle from markets such as Europe, Japan, or China can be an economical choice, but there are some considerations to keep in mind:

• Left-Hand Drive vs. Right-Hand Drive: Cars from China and some other markets may be left-hand drive, which could pose a challenge in Uganda where right-hand drive vehicles are the norm.
• Infotainment Language: Imported cars may have infotainment systems in languages other than English. Make sure these can be changed or translated before purchasing.
• Vehicle Inspection: Ensure the car is thoroughly inspected before shipping. This includes checking the battery, vehicle history, and general condition to confirm it has not been involved in an accident or suffered extensive damage.

If you import a used car through us, our global team will perform all these checks on your behalf to ensure the car is in good condition before shipping. We conduct a full inspection to verify the vehicle's repair history and confirm that it hasn’t been stolen or involved in any accidents. These checks are crucial for ensuring you get a reliable, well-maintained vehicle.

When buying a used electric car locally in Uganda, ensure that the seller is knowledgeable about the car—where it has been, its maintenance history, and whether it has been serviced regularly. Take the car for an extended test drive, simulate your typical driving style, and observe how it performs under similar conditions. Note the remaining range at the end of the test drive, compare it to the initial range, and assess the difference based on the actual distance travelled.

The Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Electric Car

Pros:

• Affordability: Deciding whether to buy a new or used electric car depends on various factors, with the initial cost being the most significant. Both new and used electric cars attract a 25% import duty in Uganda, plus shipping, insurance, and registration fees, increasing the overall cost by more than 50%. New electric cars typically cost between 100M and 500M UGX, while used ones range from 50M to 250M UGX.

Ultimately, the choice between new and used depends on your budget and circumstances. Brand new low-speed electric vehicles (LSEVs) also offer a budget-friendly alternative, often priced similarly to or even lower than used high-speed electric vehicles. They can be a practical choice for daily urban commutes, especially in Kampala, where traffic congestion keeps average driving speeds around 40 km/h. LSEVs are well-suited for city driving, providing a cost-effective and efficient solution for navigating the traffic on our streets.

• Lower Running Costs: Electric cars have fewer mechanical components that can fail, and their maintenance needs are generally less frequent.

In general, you might find that used EVs will have fewer kilometers on the odometer relative to gas-powered cars, which means they've had less wear and tear on the brakes, tires and suspension. This is the silver lining of their more limited range — people often just don't drive them that much.  EVs also require less regular maintenance. Most conventional vehicles call for a major service in the third year, which can often cost a few hundred dollars or more. Compare that to the Nissan Leaf, for example, which requires only a tire rotation and brake fluid and cabin filter replacement in its third year.

• Smoother Driving Experience: EVs offer a quieter and more refined drive, with fewer vibrations compared to internal combustion vehicles.

Affordable conventional cars with four-cylinder engines tend to feel coarse and lack refinement when driven back to back with an EV. Also, the added weight of the EV's battery low in the structure tends to make the car feel more planted on the road.

• Environmental Benefits: Since electric vehicles do not emit exhaust pollutants, they contribute to better air quality. Their overall carbon footprint is lower than that of petrol-powered cars, even when considering the energy used for battery production.

Cons:

• Potential Battery Degradation: Older electric cars may have reduced battery capacity. It’s important to understand how battery health affects range and performance.
• Outdated Technology: Earlier electric vehicle models may lack modern features and have shorter ranges. Make sure the car's specifications meet your requirements.
• Charging Infrastructure: Uganda’s EV charging infrastructure is still in its infancy. Ensure you have convenient access to charging stations or a reliable home charging solution.

Where Can I Buy a Used EV?

Used electric cars can be purchased from the same places as other used cars, such as car dealerships and private sellers. However, for more expertise, don’t hesitate to contact us. We specialize in importing electric cars to Uganda hassle-free at affordable prices.

Which Used Car Should You Buy?

Much like a second-hand petrol or diesel vehicle, the best used electric car is the one that offers the most value for your money and fits your driving style. Start with a list of your requirements: average mileage, proximity to charging points, daily driving needs, and budget. Then, find the car that meets most of these criteria.

Popular brands include Volkswagen, Nissan, BMW, Mercedes Benz, Audi, Tesla, Volvo, Kia, and Hyundai. In the Chinese car market, brands such as Wuling, MG, BYD, Dongfeng, NIO, Geely, Li Auto, Neta, X Peng, Changan, Zeeker and Great Wall Motors are recommended. Please note that most used cars from China are left-hand drive and often have infotainment screens in Chinese. Our global team can address the language issue before shipping.

We discuss more on which cars to buy in our other article: Top 25 Electric Cars to Buy in Uganda.

How Much Should You Pay?

The price for a used electric car in Uganda can vary widely depending on the make, model, and condition of the vehicle. On average, expect to pay between 50 million and 250 million UGX for a used electric vehicle. While there is still a price gap compared to used petrol cars, many used electric cars are priced competitively and offer better long-term savings.

Conclusion

Purchasing a used electric car in Uganda could be a smart and eco-friendly decision, provided you do your research and ensure the vehicle is in good condition. With benefits such as lower running costs, a smoother driving experience, and a reduced environmental footprint, used electric vehicles present a compelling option. However, understanding battery health, vehicle history, and the availability of charging infrastructure is crucial to making an informed choice.

If you need assistance in importing or finding a used electric car in Uganda, consider consulting us to help you navigate the process and ensure you get a reliable and well-maintained vehicle.