What to check when collecting a new EV
Use the interactive checklist above for all ten tasks. If time is short, follow this sequence so you leave with insurance, enough charge, the promised equipment and a record of the car's condition.
- Before collection: have insurance active from the agreed handover time so the car is covered as soon as you take responsibility for it. Registration and compulsory injury insurance arrangements differ by state and territory, so confirm what the seller has completed.
- Prepare the first charge: create the account for your chosen charging network, add a payment method and save a reachable backup charger. This lets you find account or payment problems before you need the charger. For home charging, follow the car and cable instructions, use a suitable outlet and never use an extension lead or travel adaptor. See whether a power point or wallbox suits your charging needs.
- At handover: match the model and variant to the contract so you do not accept a different specification. Check both keys and every cable or accessory in the written equipment list, and photograph the car so any existing damage is recorded before you leave.
- Before driving away: note the displayed battery percentage and confirm it comfortably covers the route and a backup charger. Ask the seller to demonstrate the charge port and cable release so you can complete the first charge, plus physical key access and what to do about any warning lights.
Three records to keep before collection
| Record | What to keep | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase and cover | Exact variant, contract reference, payment evidence, registration details and insurance start confirmation. Keep compulsory third-party (CTP) details where your state or territory issues them separately. | You can resolve a mismatch before accepting the car. |
| Charging | Your first charger and a reachable backup; details of any portable home-charging cable; whether a separate cable for untethered public AC chargers is included; and any licensed-electrician or charger commissioning records. | You can charge safely and recover if the first plan fails. |
| Support | Insurer, roadside, manufacturer and charging-network contacts, plus photos of the car at handover. | The details still work when an app or mobile connection does not. |
How to charge
Open the port, connect, confirm charging, stop safely and release the cable.
How to recover
Roadside-assistance number, physical key access and the owner manual.
How to get home
Starting battery percentage, route and reachable backup charger.
EV delivery questions
How much charge should a new EV have at delivery?
There is no single delivery percentage for every EV. Agree on a useful level with the seller, then check that the displayed charge can cover your route home and a reachable backup charger.
Do I need the manufacturer app before I can drive?
Usually not. Set it up early if it controls charging or account features, but make sure you also know how to use the physical key and the car's own controls if the app or mobile connection fails.
What charging cable should come with a new EV?
Included cables vary by model, variant and seller. Check the contract or written equipment list so you know whether you can use your planned charger without buying another cable. Our guide to home EV charging options explains where portable and public AC cables are used.
What if I find damage or a warning light at handover?
Photograph the issue and ask the seller to record it in writing. Do not drive away with an unresolved safety warning; follow the owner manual and ask the seller or roadside provider what to do next.
Sources and scope
- Australian Government: how to charge your EV—equipment and charging safety.
- Chargefox and PlugShare—session setup and charger planning.
Insurance, included equipment and roadside support vary by provider and vehicle. Confirm in writing. Reviewed 16 July 2026.