Britain’s drivers are shifting gears. Used electric cars are now outselling diesel models on a major online marketplace, signaling a fast-moving change in buyer habits and showing how affordability and choice are redrawing the map of the UK car market.
Used EVs take the lead on cinch: what the numbers show
On the online used-car platform cinch, electric vehicles have climbed to a new high. In August, EVs made up 16% of all sales on the site, while diesel models accounted for just 13%.
That marks a sharp turnaround from a year earlier, when electrics represented about one in ten vehicles and diesel held a near-20% share. The change reflects growing consumer appetite for battery power in the secondhand market.
New-car registrations underline the diesel decline
The shift is mirrored in new-vehicle figures. Diesel registrations have dropped steeply, with only 4,307 diesel cars recorded in August.
Across the new-car market, diesel’s share has fallen markedly year-on-year, while battery-electric vehicles are rising fast.
Electric new-car sales surge, according to SMMT data
Industry statistics from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders show a major swing toward electrics. Almost 22,000 new battery-electric cars were registered in August, giving EVs a market share of 26.5% that month.
This contrast — booming electric registrations alongside a collapse in diesel demand — highlights how quickly buyer preferences are changing.
Which models are driving demand for used EVs
Demand is spread across many models. In August, cinch listed 66 different electric models for sale, up by 19 models year-on-year.
- Tesla Model 3 remains a top seller and one of the most common EVs on UK roads.
- Tesla Model Y is closely challenging for the top spot.
- Classic names like the Nissan Leaf continue to appeal, with a refreshed Leaf due from Sunderland.
- Other popular and fast-moving models include the Skoda Enyaq, Renault Zoe and MG ZS EV.
On cinch, electric cars last month were selling around 43% faster than diesel and 29% faster than petrol models. That pace advantage is accelerating EV turnover in the used market.
New entrants and expanding choice reshape affordability
New brands are entering the British EV scene. Names such as BYD, Omoda and Jaecoo are gaining traction among buyers seeking value.
- BYD has broadened its range, bringing competitive pricing to mass-market buyers.
- Omoda and Jaecoo are positioning themselves as budget-friendly EV alternatives.
The wider choice is pushing prices down, especially at the lower end of the market. Despite inflation in other areas, the average asking price for a used electric vehicle fell slightly over the last year.
Price trends: what shoppers are paying
The typical price of a used EV on the platform is now approximately £16,000, down about 3% year-on-year. That makes battery-electric options accessible to more motorists.
- On the low end, examples sold last month included a Smart Forfour for roughly £7,000.
- At the high end, premium models like an electric Porsche Taycan have appeared at prices above £50,000.
Industry voices: affordability is lowering barriers
Leaders in the used-EV sector say that falling prices and a wider model choice have removed a major hurdle for buyers. They point out that many drivers still prefer diesel for specific needs.
Yet as more value-orientated EVs arrive, secondhand buyers are increasingly open to electric alternatives. Lower average prices and faster resale rates are nudging shoppers toward battery power.
Technology and range are improving fast
Battery performance and charging also feed buyer confidence. Newer Leafs and other upcoming models are expected to offer much greater range than earlier generations.
Manufacturers now tout rapid charging figures that can add significant miles in short sessions. That helps reduce range anxiety for both new and used EV buyers.
What this means for motorists and the market
- Used EV stock is rising, and vehicles are moving quicker than combustion-engined cars.
- Diesel demand is shrinking, both new and used.
- More brands and models are competing on price, giving buyers more secondhand options.
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