Hey there, Dr. Bob! I'm thrilled to dive into your question about finding the cheapest electric vehicle (EV) in Australia with a minimum range of 120 km. It's an exciting challenge, especially given the evolving landscape of second-hand EV prices, as highlighted in my recent article.
Let's start with a bold statement: finding an affordable EV with a decent range can be a tricky balance, but it's not impossible!
I've compiled a comprehensive list of all official and manufacturer-imported second-hand BEV models in Australia, which you can find at aeva.asn/fact-sheets. This resource includes individual model fact sheets, covering known issues and tips for assessing potential purchases.
Now, onto the heart of your query: EVs with a 120 km range on a budget. The oldest and most affordable options are the 2011-12 ZE0 Nissan Leaf and the 2010-13 Mitsubishi iMiEV. You can snag these for under $10k, but their original range might not be intact. If they've had battery replacements or upgrades, expect to pay closer to $17k-$20k.
For instance, my trusty 2010 Mitsubishi iMiEV, with its original battery, manages a reliable 70 km range. Not bad for its age, but it falls short of your desired 120 km.
Stepping up, we have the AZE0 2014-2017 Nissan Leaf, imported privately from Japan. These can be found for $10-$15k. While they boast the later Leaf battery chemistry, reducing degradation risks, their range might still drop over time.
You might also consider a later (2017) AZE0 Leaf with a 30 kWh battery, offering a potential 170 km range. However, be aware that Japanese market AZE0 Leafs have unique features and parts not included in Australian-delivered models, making parts sourcing and dealer maintenance more challenging.
Now, here's my top pick for a solid 120 km range: the original BMW i3 (60Ah version, 2013-2016). These innovative designs have retained their range well, but they come with a price tag of $17k and above.
This leads to a crucial point: for a slightly higher budget, you can enter the modern EV era. BEVs from 2018 onwards offer comparable technology, batteries, and features to newer models, and they've depreciated nicely over time.
So, my suggestion is to consider upping your budget to $18-$20k. This opens up a range of good second-hand 'modern era' BEVs. My top recommendation is the Hyundai Ioniq, with either a 28 kWh or 38 kWh battery, offering reliable ranges of 200 or 280 km, respectively. You can find ex-lease models at major auction houses like Manheim's or Pickles for around $18k.
Another option is the early (2020/1) MG ZS EV, starting at around $19k. While it's a solid EV, the Ioniq might offer better value for money.
A dark horse candidate is the 2017-2019 Renault Zoe, which retains a reliable 280-300 km range. These are rare in Australia, but you can find them for around $20k. My partner has been a happy Zoe owner since new!
Lastly, consider the current model ZE1 Leaf. You can find earlier year models at auction for under $20k, but be sure to check they're Australian or Japanese second-hand market models, as the 40 kWh Japanese version has a slower built-in charger.
Pickles also provides vehicle battery state-of-health (SoH) reports, offering valuable insights into battery degradation. These reports can be included in pre-purchase inspections for private or dealer purchases, ensuring peace of mind about battery longevity.
I hope this comprehensive guide helps, Dr. Bob! Feel free to explore these options and reach out with any further questions.
Cheers,
Bryce
