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The electric vehicle (EV) market, particularly the used EV sector, is thriving, with battery health being a critical concern for potential buyers. Consumers are wary of acquiring a previously owned EV only to discover that they need to replace or repair its battery, leading to unwanted complications. Therefore, a seamless purchasing and ownership experience—free from unexpected issues—is essential.
In this context, Marcus Berger, CEO of AVILOO, provided insights into the company’s innovative used EV battery warranty.
What does it mean to offer the first financially backed battery warranty for used electric vehicles in the UK?
Historically, used EV buyers lacked a reliable method to assess battery conditions and had no financial recourse if problems arose. Manufacturers’ reported battery health data are often unverifiable and inconsistent. The AVILOO Battery Warranty introduces a contractual, insurance-backed assurance: if a battery’s health declines beyond a specified threshold within 12 months or 20,000 km, the owner is entitled to £2,700 in compensation. This warranty elevates an independent battery assessment from a mere measurement to a comprehensive guarantee.
What is its purpose, and what advantages does it provide?
The battery constitutes the most significant financial investment in an electric vehicle, yet its condition cannot be evaluated during the purchase. Although the used EV market is rapidly expanding, consumer trust is lagging. This warranty serves as a credible and independently underwritten selling point for dealers at no cost to them. For buyers, it acts as a tangible financial safeguard rather than an abstract assurance. Overall, it helps establish a trust framework necessary for broader used EV adoption.
What are the costs associated with the warranty, and is it a one-time or recurring fee?
The Battery Warranty Basic is provided at no cost to the end user. It is automatically issued alongside a paid AVILOO FLASH Test, which is facilitated by dealers and remarketing platforms through AVILOO Connect. There are no subscriptions, recurring fees, or hidden costs for the buyer. Future premium tiers, including Warranty Plus and Warranty Premium, will be available for an additional charge.
Who benefits from this warranty?
The warranty is intended for individuals purchasing used electric vehicles. It reaches consumers through professional networks, such as used car dealers, fleet operators, auction platforms, and remarketing firms. These B2B partners conduct the AVILOO FLASH Test as part of their sales or transfer procedures and automatically issue the warranty via AVILOO Connect. The financial protections and benefits are exclusively for the end customers and will transfer to subsequent owners if the vehicle is resold.
Is there a significant used EV market in the UK?
Yes, the used EV market in the UK is substantial and expanding. The UK was among the first European countries to adopt electric vehicles en masse, resulting in a considerable volume of vehicles transitioning through second and third ownership cycles. Increasing fleet and lease returns are further accelerating this trend. This growth is one of the reasons the UK was chosen as the launch market—there is both volume and a pressing need for infrastructure to build consumer trust.
Why should potential used EV buyers trust this warranty? Additionally, how long do batteries in UK EVs typically last?
The AVILOO FLASH Test is the only independent diagnostic assessment for EV batteries available, providing verifiable measurements of capacity, thermal management, and charging efficiency, as compared to original factory standards. It is TÜV and CARA certified, forming the basis for battery assessments at dealerships for brands like Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, and Porsche across Europe. Regarding longevity, EV batteries are performing better than previously anticipated—data from AVILOO’s extensive database indicates that most batteries maintain good health well into their second ownership cycle. While sudden, significant degradation is rare, the warranty is designed to mitigate the financial risk associated with such events.
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