Across the UK used market, overall prices have held steady, but a handful of models have crashed out of favour. Trade valuation data shows nine of the worst performers are electric, underlining how fragile confidence remains in first wave battery tech. Early EVs that once benefited from subsidies and long waiting lists are now being hammered by worries over range, charging costs and rapid tech turnover.
Topping the fallers list is the Nissan e NV200, down close to a third of its value in just twelve months. The electric van has been squeezed by patchy charging infrastructure for commercial users and a flood of newer rivals with better range. Close behind sits the Subaru Solterra, which has suffered major percentage and cash losses as buyers pivot to cheaper Chinese EVs and more established European crossovers.
The SsangYong Korando Electric and Lexus UX Electric have also slumped, dragged down by limited public awareness and relatively high list prices when new. When generous finance deals end, used buyers balk at paying premium money for cars that no longer lead on range or charging speed. The MG5 estate, popular with private hire drivers, has joined the slide as high mileage ex fleet examples hit the market in volume.
Even plug in hybrids have not escaped. Models like the Citroen C5 X Hybrid and Vauxhall Astra Hybrid have taken double digit hits, victims of rising insurance, complex drivetrains and confusion around future emissions rules. For cash buyers, the maths is simple: simpler petrol or diesel cars look safer bets when repair bills and long term reliability are factored in.
For shrewd shoppers this correction throws up genuine bargains. Buyers willing to live with shorter ranges and slower charging can now access roomy family EVs for the price of a modest petrol hatch just a few years ago. Dealers meanwhile are under pressure to price stock realistically and turn cars quickly, or risk getting caught in the next wave down.
