Used EVs May Be More Reliable Than You Think. VinFast Is Making Them Easier to Buy
Studies are offering fresh evidence of the long-term durability of electric vehicles. For Canadian drivers considering a used EV, simpler mechanical systems, lower running costs and programs such as VinFast Certified Pre-Owned are making a compelling case.
MARKHAM, Ontario, October 21, 2026--Electric vehicles have been on the road for more than two decades, giving researchers an increasingly substantial body of real-world data to assess how they hold up over time. And the findings may surprise some drivers: studies suggest that as vehicles accumulate mileage, the simpler mechanical architecture of EVs can work increasingly in their favor.
It makes sense when you think about it. Unlike gasoline-powered vehicles, EVs do not require a conventional engine, multi-speed transmission or many of the associated components that need regular service. Fewer moving parts, fewer potential sources of mechanical wear.
Add in the potential savings on energy and routine maintenance, and a used EV begins to look like a particularly practical option for drivers seeking long-term value.
Built for the long run
There is also a growing body of real-world evidence supporting the longevity of EVs. A September 2026 UK study, drawing on 47.4 million annual vehicle safety inspections, found that higher-mileage EVs (having travelled approximately 145,000 to 193,000 km), were about 25% less likely to fail an inspection versus a gasoline car of the same age1.
Researchers at Hanoi University of Science and Technology reached a similarly encouraging conclusion after analyzing more than 5,600 electric and gasoline vehicles from VinFast and other mainstream brands. Their findings found that beyond the first 40,000 km, EVs experienced 15% to 25% fewer breakdowns than their gasoline counterparts2.
Together, these findings add to the case for considering a used EV on its individual merits rather than judging it by the odometer alone. They also highlight the value of understanding how a vehicle has been maintained throughout its life.
Simple habits that help your EV go the distance
Beyond the inherent simplicity of an electric drivetrain, the way an EV is driven and charged can also influence how well its battery performs over time.
Canadian fleet telematics company Geotab, headquartered in Ontario, has studied battery health across thousands of EVs operating in different markets. Its analysis of more than 22,700 vehicles identifies several practical considerations that can help owners support long-term battery health3.