Used Electric Vehicle Range Calculator

Curious how far your used electric vehicle can take you on a single charge? Our easy-to-use range calculator lets you explore how different charge times affect the distance your EV can travel.

Ranges shown are intended as an approximate guide only. Real range and charge times vary by vehicle and battery health; always check the battery health and vehicle specifications when buying a second-hand electric vehicle. For tips and advice check our used electric vehicle buyers' guide.

What factors affect electric vehicle range?

When you’re buying a used electric vehicle, it’s important to understand that range can vary from one car to another, even between identical models. Our Used Electric Vehicle Range Calculator gives you a good estimate based on charge time and general wear-and-tear, but real-world range depends on several other factors. Here are some key things that can affect how far a second-hand EV will take you on a full charge.

EV buyers' guide

  1. 1. Battery Age and Condition

    EV batteries lose efficiency over time, typically dropping by 1–2% per year. That means a second-hand EV may not offer the same range it did when new. Ask for a Battery State of Health (SoH) report to understand how much usable capacity remains.

  2. 2. Temperature and Climate

    Cold weather can significantly reduce EV range. Batteries operate most efficiently in moderate temperatures, so expect lower range in winter or very hot climates. Pre-conditioning the car while it’s plugged in can help mitigate this.

  3. 3. Driving Style

    Aggressive acceleration, high speeds, and heavy braking all drain the battery more quickly. A smoother driving style can extend your EV’s range, especially in stop-start traffic where regenerative braking helps recover energy.

  4. 4. Type of Driving

    City driving is often more range-efficient for EVs due to regenerative braking and lower speeds. Long motorway journeys at steady high speeds, on the other hand, can drain the battery faster.

  1. 5. Vehicle Load

    Extra weight means more energy consumption. Carrying passengers, luggage, or heavy gear can reduce overall range, so keep the load light when possible.

  2. 6. Tyre Condition and Pressure

    Under-inflated or worn tyres increase rolling resistance, which makes your EV work harder. Keeping tyres in good shape and at the right pressure can help maintain optimal range.

  3. 7. Battery Charging Habits

    How the previous owner charged the vehicle can impact battery longevity. Frequent fast charging and routinely charging to 100% can accelerate battery degradation over time.

  4. 8. Use of Onboard Systems

    Using heating, air conditioning, or heated seats draws power from the battery. While these features are great for comfort, extensive use can slightly reduce your driving range, especially on shorter trips.