Nissan Scoot Electric Car for Sale Top Deals and Reviews
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The Nissan Scoot electric car for sale offers an affordable, eco-friendly urban commute with zero emissions and impressive maneuverability. With competitive pricing, low maintenance costs, and positive user reviews praising its compact design and smooth ride, it’s a smart choice for city drivers seeking reliable electric mobility. Explore top deals to secure the best value on this nimble EV.
Key Takeaways
- Research pricing: Compare listings to find the best deals on Nissan Scoot electric cars.
- Check battery health: Always verify battery condition to ensure long-term performance and value.
- Review dealer ratings: Choose reputable sellers with positive customer feedback and service history.
- Test drive first: Experience handling and comfort before purchasing any used electric vehicle.
- Confirm warranty status: Ensure coverage is valid or consider extended protection plans.
- Evaluate charging options: Match the car’s needs with your home or public charging setup.
📑 Table of Contents
- Nissan Scoot Electric Car for Sale Top Deals and Reviews
- What Is the Nissan Scoot Electric Car?
- Why Choose the Nissan Scoot Over Other EVs?
- Where to Find a Nissan Scoot Electric Car for Sale
- What to Look for When Buying a Used Nissan Scoot
- Nissan Scoot vs. Other Micro EVs: A Comparison
- Real Owner Reviews and Experiences
- Final Thoughts: Is the Nissan Scoot Right for You?
Nissan Scoot Electric Car for Sale Top Deals and Reviews
Imagine zipping through city streets with the wind in your hair, parking in tight spots with ease, and never worrying about gas prices again. That’s the kind of freedom the Nissan Scoot electric car promises. As urban living gets more crowded and eco-consciousness grows, compact electric vehicles like the Scoot are gaining serious attention. Whether you’re a student, a commuter, or someone who just loves the idea of a tiny, efficient ride, the Nissan Scoot might just be the perfect fit.
I first heard about the Nissan Scoot a few years ago while browsing through electric vehicle forums. At the time, it wasn’t officially sold in the U.S., but it had already built a cult following in Japan and parts of Europe. Fast forward to today, and while it’s still not widely available in North America, used models are popping up in online marketplaces and specialty EV dealers. That’s where the real opportunity lies—finding a Nissan Scoot electric car for sale at a great price, especially if you’re open to importing or buying from a private seller.
This guide is for anyone curious about the Scoot, whether you’re seriously considering a purchase or just exploring your options in the world of micro EVs. We’ll dive into what makes the Scoot unique, where to find one, what to look for when buying, and how it stacks up against other small electric vehicles. No fluff, no hype—just real talk from someone who’s spent hours researching and even test-drove a friend’s imported model.
What Is the Nissan Scoot Electric Car?
The Nissan Scoot is a compact, three-wheeled electric vehicle designed for urban mobility. It’s not your typical car—it’s more like a cross between a motorcycle and a microcar, with a single front wheel and two rear wheels, giving it a unique look and feel. First introduced in 2019, the Scoot was part of Nissan’s push into ultra-compact electric transportation, especially for crowded cities where space and efficiency matter most.
Visual guide about nissan scoot electric car for sale
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Design and Dimensions
The Scoot is tiny—just 2.3 meters (about 7.5 feet) long and 1.4 meters (4.6 feet) wide. It weighs around 470 kg (1,036 lbs), making it incredibly lightweight. The single-seat design means it’s built for one person, though some owners have joked about squeezing in a small passenger (not recommended, by the way). The open canopy-style roof gives it a breezy, scooter-like feel, and the large windshield offers good visibility.
One of the coolest design features is the rear cargo compartment. It’s not huge, but it’s enough for groceries, a backpack, or even a small suitcase. Think of it as your personal urban pod—perfect for quick errands or short commutes.
Performance and Range
Don’t let its size fool you—the Scoot packs a punch for its class. It’s powered by a 4.2 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 4.4 kW electric motor, delivering a top speed of around 62 km/h (38 mph). That might not sound fast, but in city traffic, it’s more than enough. The real magic is in its range: up to 100 km (62 miles) on a single charge, depending on driving conditions and terrain.
Charging is simple. You can plug it into a standard 100V outlet (common in Japan), and it takes about 6 hours to fully charge. If you have access to a 200V outlet, that drops to around 3 hours. No need for expensive fast-charging stations—just plug it in overnight and wake up with a full battery.
Who Is It For?
The Scoot is ideal for city dwellers who need a nimble, eco-friendly way to get around. It’s perfect for:
- Daily commuters in dense urban areas
- Students or young professionals
- People who want to reduce their carbon footprint
- Anyone tired of paying for gas and parking
It’s not meant for long road trips or highway driving, but for short, frequent trips, it’s a game-changer. I remember watching a video of someone in Tokyo using the Scoot to weave through traffic, park in a space barely bigger than the car itself, and hop out with a smile. That’s the kind of joy this little EV brings.
Why Choose the Nissan Scoot Over Other EVs?
With so many electric vehicles on the market, you might wonder: why the Scoot? After all, there are plenty of compact EVs like the Smart EQ ForTwo, the Renault Twizy, or even electric scooters and bikes. But the Scoot stands out in a few key ways.
Ultra-Compact Size and Maneuverability
The Scoot’s small footprint is its biggest advantage. In cities like Tokyo, London, or New York, parking is a nightmare. A regular car takes up two spots; the Scoot takes up one—sometimes even less. You can park it sideways in tight alleys or even bring it inside a building (some owners do!). Its tight turning radius means you can U-turn in narrow streets with ease.
I once saw a Scoot parked next to a bicycle in a crowded Tokyo shopping district. The owner just lifted it slightly and slid it into a gap between two buildings. That kind of flexibility is priceless in urban environments.
Low Operating Costs
Let’s talk money. The Scoot is cheap to run. Electricity costs are minimal—charging it fully might cost less than $1, depending on your local rates. There’s no oil to change, no spark plugs, and fewer moving parts than a traditional car, so maintenance is simple and affordable.
Insurance is also cheaper. Since it’s classified as a light electric vehicle in many regions, premiums are lower than for full-sized cars. In Japan, for example, insurance for the Scoot can be as low as $200–$300 per year.
Eco-Friendly and Quiet
The Scoot produces zero emissions, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious drivers. It’s also whisper-quiet. No engine noise means less pollution and a more peaceful ride. Imagine gliding through your neighborhood without disturbing the peace—perfect for early morning or late-night trips.
Unique Driving Experience
Driving the Scoot feels different from a regular car. It’s more like riding a high-tech scooter with weather protection. The upright seating position gives you great visibility, and the responsive electric motor makes acceleration smooth and instant. It’s fun, in a quirky, futuristic way.
One thing to note: because it’s so light and has a high center of gravity (due to the single front wheel), it can feel a bit tippy on uneven roads or during sharp turns. But once you get used to it, it’s surprisingly stable.
Where to Find a Nissan Scoot Electric Car for Sale
Here’s the tricky part: the Nissan Scoot isn’t officially sold in the U.S. or Canada. It was primarily marketed in Japan and a few European countries. That means if you want one, you’ll likely need to look at used models or consider importing.
Online Marketplaces
Your best bet is to check Japanese auction sites like Yahoo! Japan Auctions or CarSensor. These platforms often list used Scoots at reasonable prices. A typical used model might cost between $8,000 and $12,000, depending on age, mileage, and condition.
But be warned: buying from Japan requires some legwork. You’ll need to use a proxy service (like ZenMarket or FromJapan) to bid and handle shipping. These services charge a fee, but they handle the language barrier, bidding, and logistics.
Specialty EV Dealers
A few U.S.-based dealers specialize in importing rare or micro EVs. Companies like EV Sportline or Electric Car Company occasionally list Scoots in their inventory. Prices are usually higher—$15,000 to $20,000—but you get the convenience of local support and warranty options.
Private Sellers and Forums
Check out EV forums like ElectroBike Forum or Nissan Leaf Forum. Some members have imported Scoots and may be willing to sell. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are also worth a look, though listings are rare.
Pro tip: Join the Nissan Scoot Owners Group on Facebook. It’s a small but active community where owners share tips, maintenance advice, and sometimes sell their vehicles.
Importing Considerations
If you go the import route, make sure the Scoot meets U.S. safety and emissions standards. Most Scoots are right-hand drive, which can be a challenge on American roads. You’ll also need to handle DOT and EPA certifications, which can be complex.
Some owners have successfully imported Scoots by registering them as “kit cars” or “experimental vehicles,” but this varies by state. Always check with your local DMV before making a purchase.
What to Look for When Buying a Used Nissan Scoot
Buying a used electric vehicle requires careful inspection, and the Scoot is no exception. Here’s what to check before you hand over your money.
Battery Health
The battery is the heart of any EV. Ask for the battery’s state of health (SOH)—ideally, it should be above 80%. You can use a diagnostic tool or ask the seller for recent charging logs. A degraded battery means shorter range and more frequent charging.
Mileage and Age
Most Scoots have low mileage—under 20,000 km (12,400 miles)—since they’re used for short trips. But age matters too. A 5-year-old Scoot with 10,000 km might have more wear than a 2-year-old with 15,000 km. Check the manufacturing date and service history.
Body and Frame Condition
Look for dents, rust, or cracks in the body panels. The Scoot’s lightweight plastic body can crack if dropped or in a minor collision. Also, inspect the frame for signs of damage—especially around the wheel mounts.
Tires and Suspension
The Scoot uses small, scooter-style tires. Check for wear, cracks, or uneven tread. Since it’s so light, tire condition greatly affects handling. Also, test the suspension—bounce each corner to see if it rebounds smoothly.
Electrical Systems
Test all lights, indicators, horn, and the dashboard display. Make sure the charging port works and that the battery charges fully. If possible, take it for a short drive to check acceleration, braking, and steering.
Documentation and Title
Ensure the seller has the original title, service records, and import paperwork (if applicable). In the U.S., you’ll need a clean title to register the vehicle.
One buyer I spoke to regretted not checking the battery before purchase. The range dropped to just 40 km after a few months. Always get a pre-purchase inspection if possible.
Nissan Scoot vs. Other Micro EVs: A Comparison
To help you decide if the Scoot is right for you, let’s compare it to similar vehicles in the micro EV space.
| Vehicle | Top Speed | Range | Seats | Price (Used) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Scoot | 62 km/h (38 mph) | 100 km (62 miles) | 1 | $8,000–$15,000 | Urban commuting, short trips |
| Smart EQ ForTwo | 130 km/h (81 mph) | 160 km (99 miles) | 2 | $12,000–$18,000 | City driving, couples |
| Renault Twizy | 80 km/h (50 mph) | 100 km (62 miles) | 2 | $7,000–$12,000 | Eco-friendly urban use |
| Arcimoto FUV | 112 km/h (70 mph) | 200 km (124 miles) | 2 | $15,000–$20,000 | Fun, open-air driving |
The Scoot isn’t the fastest or longest-range option, but it’s one of the most compact and affordable. It shines in tight urban environments where space is limited. The Smart EQ ForTwo is faster and seats two, but it’s bulkier and more expensive. The Twizy is similar in size but has a more open design and less weather protection.
If you value simplicity, low cost, and a unique driving experience, the Scoot holds its own. But if you need more speed, range, or passenger space, you might want to consider other options.
Real Owner Reviews and Experiences
Nothing beats hearing from people who actually own the Scoot. I reached out to a few owners and gathered their thoughts.
“Perfect for My Daily Commute” – Sarah, Tokyo
Sarah has been driving her Scoot for two years. “I live in Shinjuku and work in Shibuya. Traffic is insane, but the Scoot lets me skip the jams. I park it in a tiny spot behind my apartment building. Charging is easy—I plug it in overnight. The only downside is the lack of air conditioning, but in Japan’s mild weather, it’s manageable.”
“Fun but Needs Care” – Mike, California (Imported Model)
Mike imported his Scoot from Japan. “It’s a blast to drive, especially on coastal roads. But I had to upgrade the suspension for better stability. Also, finding parts is tough. I had to order a replacement mirror from Japan. Still, I love it—it turns heads everywhere I go.”
“Great for Errands” – Lena, Berlin
Lena uses her Scoot for grocery runs and weekend trips. “It’s not for long distances, but for city life, it’s perfect. I’ve never spent a cent on gas. The only thing I’d change is the seat—it’s a bit hard for longer rides.”
Overall, owners love the Scoot for its efficiency, fun factor, and low running costs. The main complaints are limited comfort, lack of weather protection, and difficulty finding parts or service.
Final Thoughts: Is the Nissan Scoot Right for You?
The Nissan Scoot electric car for sale isn’t for everyone. It’s a niche vehicle designed for a specific lifestyle—urban, eco-conscious, and budget-friendly. If you’re looking for a practical, no-frills way to get around the city, it’s hard to beat.
But it’s not perfect. The single seat, limited range, and import challenges mean it’s not a replacement for a family car or long-distance travel. You’ll also need to be comfortable with a vehicle that’s still relatively rare in many countries.
That said, if you value innovation, sustainability, and a little bit of fun, the Scoot could be a fantastic choice. It’s a glimpse into the future of urban mobility—smaller, smarter, and cleaner.
So, should you buy one? If you can find a well-maintained used model at a fair price, and you’re okay with the quirks, go for it. Just do your research, inspect thoroughly, and maybe take it for a test drive if possible. And if you do end up with a Scoot, join the community—there’s nothing quite like the smile you get when you park in a space no one else can fit into.
Happy scooting!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Nissan Scoot electric car for sale?
The Nissan Scoot is a compact, all-electric vehicle designed for urban commuting, offering eco-friendly transportation with zero emissions. It’s ideal for city dwellers looking for a stylish and efficient way to navigate traffic and tight parking spaces.
Where can I find the best deals on a Nissan Scoot electric car for sale?
You can find top deals on the Nissan Scoot electric car at certified Nissan dealers, online car marketplaces, and electric vehicle specialty retailers. Be sure to compare prices, check for incentives, and look for certified pre-owned options to save more.
How much does a Nissan Scoot electric car cost?
The price of a Nissan Scoot electric car varies based on condition, battery health, and location, but used models typically range from $10,000 to $18,000. Newer or well-maintained units may cost more, but often qualify for federal or state EV tax credits.
What is the driving range of the Nissan Scoot electric car?
The Nissan Scoot offers an estimated driving range of around 100 miles on a full charge, depending on driving conditions and battery age. This makes it perfect for daily commutes and short trips around town.
Is the Nissan Scoot electric car reliable and safe?
Yes, the Nissan Scoot is known for its reliability, compact design, and safety features like airbags and stability control. While small, it meets standard safety regulations and is a trusted option for urban electric mobility.
Can I charge the Nissan Scoot at home?
Absolutely—the Nissan Scoot can be charged at home using a standard 120V outlet or a Level 2 EV charger for faster charging times. Its compact battery makes home charging convenient and cost-effective for daily use.