Used EV Demand Surges in the UK Wholesale Market
According to MotorTrader.com, The UK used electric vehicle (EV) market is experiencing a strong resurgence, with demand outpacing supply and driving faster sales in the wholesale sector.
In late 2025, dealers noted a dramatic uptick in interest for pre-owned EVs, reversing earlier price softness. By October 2025, three-year-old EVs posted the largest monthly price increases of any fuel type—averaging +2.9% or around £600—with standout performers including the Nissan Leaf (up 10% to over £14,000) and Tesla Model 3 (up 7.8%).
This trend built on September gains and reflected growing buyer confidence, fueled by lower battery costs, expanded charging networks, and heightened environmental awareness.Into January 2026, EVs rank among the fastest-selling vehicles in the wholesale used car market.
Well-presented stock is clearing quickly, even as overall auction volumes trail 2024 levels slightly. The sector remains resilient, with conversion rates strong and demand consistently exceeding available supply.
Industry voices highlight the positivity. Paul Hill of the National Association of Motor Auctions (NAMA) observed that the market has begun the year more robustly than anticipated, with cars, light commercial vehicles (LCVs), and EVs all showing resilience.
EVs have proven particularly resilient to depreciation. In August 2025, their values fell by just 0.2%—matching petrol cars for the best performance. Three-to-five-year-old models turned over in an average of 24 days (the quickest category), while electric LCVs saw average prices rise £1,500 year-on-year with shorter selling times.
Although newer EVs (around 12 months old) face some pressure from incentives on brand-new models, the used segment benefits from limited stock and intense buyer competition. As more three-year-old EVs enter circulation via part-exchanges and fleet disposals, strengthening residuals are supporting the broader automotive chain.
For dealers and private buyers, this creates real opportunity—especially for those seeking affordable, low-running-cost options. Seasonal factors may introduce short-term retail softness, but experts forecast stable guide prices through early 2026, with the wholesale outlook staying firm as activity builds toward the year-end.
For practical, on-the-ground insights into used EVs at auction—particularly those passing through Shoreham Vehicle Auctions—check out Jonathan Porterfield's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@JonathanPorterfield, Jonathan’s regular videos provide detailed previews, sale results, and market commentary on the latest EV bargains and trends in the wholesale space.
As the UK advances toward net-zero targets, this used EV momentum signals a genuine shift in buyer priorities. For value-conscious shoppers, the current market offers one of the best windows yet to go electric.
Here at DNAG we believe, especially when it comes to EVs, that Leasing new and (carefully) buying used can be a great way to go for those who want to achieve the very best value for their money.
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About the Author
Jim Starling is the founder of DefinitelyNotAGuru, the UK’s honest car companion. With a mission to cut through the marketing fluff and technical jargon, Jim provides straightforward, unbiased advice to help everyday drivers navigate the world of car buying, leasing, and the transition to electric vehicles.
As an independent motoring journalist and a long-term EV owner himself - Jim brings real-world experience to his reviews. Whether he’s on the floor of the Brussels Motor Show or testing the latest family SUV on UK roads, his focus remains the same: providing 100% honest opinions that put the audience first.
You can find more of Jim’s deep-dive reviews and money-saving car guides on the DefinitelyNotAGuru YouTube channel