Introduction to Certified Pre-Owned Electric Vehicles
Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) electric vehicles (EVs) like the Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Bolt EV, and Volkswagen ID.4 offer prospective buyers a blend of affordability and reliability. These vehicles are included in their respective automaker’s CPO program, which provides them with multipoint inspections and warranty coverage. However, there are some unique features and criteria specific to EVs that differentiate them from their gasoline counterparts.
Nissan Leaf: A Pioneer in Electric Vehicles
The Nissan Leaf was one of the first all-electric cars introduced to the market and has been part of Nissan’s CPO program since 2013. As a CPO vehicle, the Leaf undergoes stringent multipoint inspections that ensure its reliability and performance, similar to gasoline-powered CPO cars. The inspections include an EV-specific section, catering to the unique mechanics and components of electric vehicles.
Chevrolet Bolt EV and EUV: Stringent Inspections and Warranty Coverage
The Chevrolet Bolt EV and EUV come with some special conditions under the CPO program. According to GM spokesperson Sabin Blake, both models undergo a 172-point inspection, which includes an EV-specific segment to address the electric components. Additionally, a CPO Bolt comes with a six-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and a 12-month/12,000-mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty. It also retains the remainder of the eight-year/100,000-mile new-vehicle battery warranty, a significant advantage for buyers.
App-Based Telematics and Connected Services
Most CPO programs for EVs include a trial subscription to an app-based telematics or connected services plan, which is valuable for EV owners. For instance, the myChevrolet app, which is part of the OnStar connected services plan, allows owners to monitor vehicle range, battery charge status, and find charging stations along their route. Ford offers a similar service with the FordPass app for its EVs, including the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning, enhancing the convenience and functionality of owning a CPO EV.
When considering the purchase of a CPO EV, understanding the unique criteria and benefits, such as comprehensive inspections, extensive warranties, and useful app-based services, is crucial. These elements ensure that a CPO EV, like the Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Bolt EV, or Volkswagen ID.4, provides exceptional value and reliability, making them a trustworthy choice for buyers.