Scrap an electric or hybrid car
Selling an unwanted EV or hybrid starts with its condition. Share the model, battery warnings, any damage and the collection location so the recovery requirements can be assessed before booking.
What to tell us before an EV or hybrid collection
Use the exact model and explain whether it is a battery-electric vehicle, plug-in hybrid or another hybrid type. Include any warning message as displayed, whether keys are available and what happened before it stopped working. If a garage has supplied a diagnosis, pass that on rather than trying to interpret the high-voltage system yourself.
Mention collision damage, flooding, fire exposure or a removed battery before a collection is discussed. These details can change the handling requirements and whether an ordinary collection is suitable. A generic vehicle quote should not be treated as approval of a damaged battery or an unsafe location.
Photograph visible condition and access from a safe position. Do not remove covers, touch orange cables, disconnect high-voltage parts or try to make a damaged vehicle ready for loading. HSE’s guidance explains that electrical energy can remain a hazard even when the vehicle is switched off and that vehicle-specific information matters for safe recovery.
If you are unsure whether the car can select neutral or move, say so. Recovery arrangements need to suit the particular model and fault; do not tow or push it to a more convenient place just for the quote. Keep the available keys, ordinary charging accessories and vehicle records together, and clarify which items are included in the sale.
More questions before you decide
Should I disconnect the traction battery before collection?
No. Do not attempt high-voltage work to prepare the vehicle. Describe the condition and let the collection requirements be assessed using the appropriate vehicle information. Ordinary quote preparation should not involve opening a battery pack or touching high-voltage components.
Yes — we collect electric and hybrid cars safely across Hampshire & West Sussex. The model, damage and battery condition need to be assessed so collection and authorised treatment can be planned appropriately. You’ll get bank transfer on collection and a Certificate of Destruction (CoD) when a vehicle is scrapped via our ATF partners.
- Collection assessment: Share the model, battery warnings, damage and access before booking.
- Fast payment: Bank transfer payment (no cash, SMDA 2013 compliant)
- DVLA admin: We guide the online notification; ATF issues your CoD on scrappage
How we make EV collections safe
HV awareness & isolation
EVs/hybrids contain high‑voltage (HV) components that can pose shock and thermal risks if mishandled. Safe handling depends on the model, condition, manufacturer information and competent recovery arrangements. Tell us about damage and warning messages before booking. See official guidance: HSE EV hazards.
Non‑runners & damaged EVs
Tell us about locked wheels, a discharged battery, immobiliser faults, impact damage and missing keys. Recovery must be assessed for the particular model and condition before a method or booking is agreed.
Thermal or water ingress
If there’s any sign of heat damage, smoke, flooding or saltwater exposure, flag it in your quote. We’ll triage for specialist handling and advise next steps before booking.
Payment & DVLA paperwork (CoD)
Payment: Bank transfer payment at collection (no cash). The Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 bans cash for scrap metal — electronic transfer provides a clear audit trail and protects you. Home Office guidance
CoD: When an EV is destroyed at an Authorised Treatment Facility, the ATF issues a Certificate of Destruction through DVLA systems and you keep a copy for your records. CoD guide • DVLA CoD/NoD
Batteries & environmental handling
Traction batteries and HV components are routed via licensed facilities in line with UK battery/waste regulations and ATF permit conditions. If the battery has been removed or damaged, tell us before booking so the handling requirements and whether collection is suitable can be assessed. Battery regulations
What we need from you
- Vehicle location + access notes (height limits, underground bays, narrow lanes)
- Keys (if available) and any known faults (e.g., “HV system fault”, locked Park)
- Tell us if the vehicle has been in water or has fire damage
- Remove personal items and private plates (retain before scrapping if needed: V317 guide)
Where we collect (Hampshire & West Sussex)
We cover towns and cities across Hampshire & West Sussex, including:
EV/Hybrid FAQs
Can you collect an EV with a flat 12V or traction battery?
Yes. Share warning lights and whether the car will select Neutral so we can plan the safest approach and equipment.
Do I still get a Certificate of Destruction?
Yes, if the EV is scrapped (not repaired/salvaged). The ATF issues a CoD via DVLA systems and you keep your copy.
Do you pay cash for EVs?
No. Cash payment for a vehicle being scrapped is prohibited in England and Wales. We pay by bank transfer at collection.
What if I don’t have the V5C (logbook)?
We can still arrange scrappage via an ATF. You must notify DVLA you’ve scrapped the vehicle. See our No‑V5C guide.
Can I keep my private plate before scrapping?
Yes — retain the plate first (DVLA fee usually £80) using the online service or V317 by post. See our V317 guide.
What if my EV is inside a multi‑storey or underground car park?
Share the height limit, parking level and approach so access and recovery suitability can be checked before booking. See our multi‑storey collection guide.
Official sources: HSE: Electric & hybrid vehicle hazards • DVLA CoD/NoD service • Scrapped vehicles (GOV.UK) • Batteries & waste batteries: regulations • SMDA 2013: supplementary guidance