Retail customers who might typically choose a used car from a dealership are to be tempted into EVs by a new scheme from leasing company Zenith.

As higher volume of pre-owned and ex-fleet electric vehicles are coming into the used car market, Zenith has launched a used EV salary sacrifice scheme, to make them more cost effective for working consumers.

Each vehicle is quality checked, will have passed the AA Safety Inspection, comes with a full service history and manufacturer’s battery warranty, as well as a full maintenance package.

Zenith’s used car promise aims to provide drivers with complete peace of mind, reinforced with a seven-day return period available on all vehicles.

Providing drivers with a wider selection of options for their budget, vehicle contracts start at just 12 months, which Zenith says will ensure a risk-averse option for drivers looking to try an EV without a long-term commitment.

The vehicle leasing and fleet management provider has also built a digital stock management system, allowing drivers to see and order the latest stock in real time. All available cars are ready to go, with delivery possible in under 14 days.

Andy Wolff, commercial director of Zenith’s corporate division, said: "Zenith launched the very first car salary sacrifice scheme back in 1999, so this new proposition is the next natural step in providing affordable access to electric vehicles as we continue to drive towards net zero.

"We know from our market research that 81% of drivers would take a used salary sacrifice car. By combining affordability, accessibility, and quality, we’re removing the barriers that have traditionally held back EV adoption, while helping establish a healthy used market and mitigating the impact of falling residual values, which is vital to the overall EV ecosystem."

Several leasing companies are exploring ways to secure better profits by re-leasing their EVs rather than send all through remarketing channels. In 2023 Octopus launched its scheme. 

And earlier this year Leasing.com launched a new comparison platform for used car leasing, with a focus on making personal contract hire more accessible for electric vehicles. The new site, re.Leasing.com, is described as the UK’s first dedicated used car leasing comparison tool and has been developed in partnership with Lex Autolease, one of the largest funders of used EVs in the UK.