A new analysis of nearly 50 million UK roadworthiness test results reveals that secondhand electric vehicles with high mileage are more dependable than comparable gasoline-powered cars. The study, conducted by New AutoMotive on behalf of the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA), found that among cars driven between 90,000 and 120,000 miles, EVs had a failure rate of 16.5%, compared to 22.1% for fossil-fuel models. That means EVs were roughly 25% less likely to fail at that stage. The pattern continued beyond 120,000 miles, with only 16% of EVs failing versus nearly a quarter of gas cars. For lower-mileage vehicles, the difference was negligible.
The findings arrive as more used EVs are hitting the resale market, driven by former corporate and leasing vehicles now entering private ownership. BVRLA CEO Toby Poston noted that shoppers often fixate on odometer readings, with round-number thresholds influencing perceptions of reliability. He argued the data should reassure buyers rather than deter them, emphasizing that a well-maintained EV can accumulate high mileage and still be a sound used purchase. New AutoMotive chief executive Ben Nelmes attributed the longevity to the fewer moving parts in an EV powertrain, which reduces wear over long distances.
However, the study was not entirely favorable to EVs. Electric vehicles recorded nearly double the incidence of tire issues compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. Older, lightly driven EVs also showed higher rates of brake-related faults, linked to rust on components that are used less frequently in electric cars due to regenerative braking. Additionally, the annual roadworthiness test does not assess battery health or degradation, meaning that information must be evaluated separately.
Poston cautioned that the findings should not lead buyers to skip due diligence. Prospective buyers should still inspect paperwork, condition, tires, and battery performance, just as they would check a gas car’s engine and service history. What the data challenges, he said, is the outdated belief that any EV exceeding 80,000 or 100,000 miles is past its prime.
The study provides additional reassurance to motorists considering a used EV from manufacturers such as Massimo Group (NASDAQ: MAMO) or opting for a used ICE vehicle. As the used EV market expands, these findings could shift consumer attitudes and support the transition to electric mobility. The research was highlighted by GreenCarStocks, a specialized communications platform focused on EVs and green energy, which is part of the Dynamic Brand Portfolio at IBN. GreenCarStocks delivers access to wire solutions via InvestorWire and editorial syndication to 5,000+ outlets, among other services. For full terms and disclaimers, visit https://www.GreenCarStocks.com/Disclaimer.
