The UK automotive market is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in its history—and for motor retailers, the used electric vehicle (EV) sector is quickly becoming one of the most commercially compelling opportunities available today.
AM’s new report, The Business of Used EV Retailing, sponsored by Black Horse, explores exactly how dealers can position themselves to capitalise on this shift, and it is published now.
If you’re not already actively retailing used EVs, you may soon have a steep learning curve. Government policy is dictating the pace of the transition, and the direction of travel is clear.
With firm targets in place to phase out new petrol and diesel vehicles and the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate driving adoption, plug-in cars are the future of the UK car parc.
Dealers who act now have a unique window to build expertise, establish trust with customers, and refine their EV proposition before the market becomes fully saturated.
With nearly 2 million electric vehicles now on UK roads—and the majority under five years old—the volume of EVs entering the used market is accelerating rapidly.
As these vehicles come off finance agreements and fleet cycles, they represent a growing, high-quality stock pool ready for remarketing.
At the same time, consumer demand is evolving. What was once considered a niche or early-adopter segment is now firmly entering the mainstream. Today’s buyers are increasingly motivated by value, running costs, and environmental considerations—and well-prepared used EVs are ticking all three boxes.
Success in used EV retailing isn’t just about having electric cars on your forecourt. It requires a rethink across the entire retail journey, from smarter stock selection and preparation to clearer marketing and stronger customer support. Buyers still have questions. Charging, battery health, real-world range, and ownership experience all play a critical role in purchase decisions.
Dealers who can confidently guide customers through these considerations will stand out and convert more sales.
Sponsored by Black Horse, AM’s report The Business of Used EV Retailing provides practical, actionable insights across every stage of the process. Read the full report and discover how to future-proof your dealership in the evolving world of electric vehicle retailing.
A word from sponsor Black Horse
Headline: Turning EV demand into profit: a dealer guide
Electric vehicle (EV) awareness among UK consumers is at an all-time high, but converting that interest into profitable retail outcomes remains a critical challenge for dealers. This new Q&A-led report explores how leading finance insight and market trends are reshaping EV demand, with a clear focus on what it means for dealer operations, margins and long-term strategy.
While rising fuel costs and cost-of-living pressures are accelerating consumers’ consideration of EVs, dealers need to demonstrate the value they can offer. Total cost of ownership (TCO), monthly affordability and long-term confidence now play a decisive role in purchasing decisions. This Q&A highlights how dealers can respond, from reframing conversations around whole-life costs to tackling persistent misconceptions around battery health, pricing and charging.
The growing importance of the used EV market will play a huge role in moving adoption to the mainstream choice. As supply increases, used electric vehicles will be increasingly visible on forecourts and increasingly represent the strongest margin opportunity for dealerships. However, success will depend on building trust, improving team confidence and delivering consistent, evidence-based customer experiences.
Just like for petrol and diesel vehicles, finance is a critical enabler for used EV sales, helping to reduce upfront barriers, address depreciation concerns and bring EV affordability in line with internal combustion engine (ICE) equivalents. This report also outlines how structured finance products and clearer communication can accelerate conversion and support more predictable sales outcomes.
For dealer groups, independents and used car supermarkets, the EV opportunity is clear, but leadership will come down to consistent execution across pricing, finance and customer understanding.
