The used electric vehicle (EV) market is seeing a resurgence as consumer demand for greener vehicles increases and supply levels stabilize, according to Auto Trader’s latest Retail Price Index. The average retail value of used EVs has increased by 0.6% month-on-month in October, reaching £32,203. Although prices are still lower compared to the previous year, the rate of decline has softened to almost -20%, the lowest since June.
Compared to petrol and diesel vehicles, EVs are experiencing more significant growth. Petrol and diesel vehicle prices have grown by 1.3% and 0.8% year-on-year, respectively. However, the demand for used EVs has surged by a remarkable 78.4% in October, outpacing the growth in petrol demand (2%) and surpassing diesel demand (-1.1%). Additionally, used EVs are selling faster than ever, with an average time on the forecourt of just 23 days, the quickest since December 2018 and almost a week faster than the overall used car market.
One of the contributing factors to the increase in used EV prices is the softening growth in supply. While there was a remarkable 115% year-on-year increase in supply growth for used EVs in August, it has now slowed down to 24.3% in October. This supply-demand imbalance has led to price stabilization and improved profitability, as indicated by Auto Trader’s Market Health metric, which has seen a 43.5% year-on-year increase for second-hand EVs in October.
Richard Walker, Auto Trader’s data and insight director, noted that the realignment in used EV pricing is the standout trend in October. The affordability of used EVs, combined with rising fuel prices, is making them a viable alternative to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, which are still increasing in value.
While younger cars entering the second-hand market are experiencing slower pricing growth, the older end of the market is seeing double-digit price growth. Used car prices for 10–15-year-old vehicles have risen by 10.2% year-on-year and 2.2% month-on-month, while 5–10-year-old car prices have increased by 2.5% year-on-year.
Overall, the used car market remains robust, with a 0.8% increase in prices on a month-on-month basis. Compared to pre-pandemic levels in October 2019, prices have grown by 44%. Consumer demand on Auto Trader has also surged by 5.7% compared to the same period last year, and used cars are selling at a faster rate, with an average time on the market of 28 days.
In conclusion, the used EV market is experiencing a resurgence, driven by increasing consumer demand and a softening in supply growth. Prices are stabilizing, and the market is presenting profitable opportunities for retailers. As the automotive market continues to evolve, monitoring data and pricing the right stock for forecourts will be crucial to benefiting from the profit potential of used electric vehicles.
The market for used electric vehicles is rapidly gaining momentum
The automotive industry is undergoing a transformative shift, with electric vehicles (EVs) quickly becoming the preferred choice for environmentally conscious consumers. As the demand for these vehicles grows, the market for used electric vehicles is also gaining momentum at an exceptional pace. With advancements in technology, increasing awareness of sustainability, and governmental support, the used EV market presents a promising investment opportunity for both buyers and sellers.
One of the key factors driving the rapid growth of the used EV market is the continuous improvement of battery technology. As EVs become more mainstream, automakers are investing heavily in research and development to enhance battery efficiency and longevity. This leads to a significant improvement in the durability and overall performance of EVs, making them a reliable long-term investment. Consequently, buyers are increasingly willing to purchase used EVs, knowing that they can enjoy the benefits and efficiency of electric vehicles without the hefty price tag of buying new.
Furthermore, the increasing availability and variety of electric models in the used car market play a crucial role in the sector’s rapid growth. Previously, the selection of used EVs was limited, but as more consumers trade in their older models or lease returns, a wider range of options becomes available. This increased availability satisfies the diverse range of tastes and budgets, encouraging more consumers to make the transition to electric vehicles.
Additionally, the growing public awareness and concern for environmental issues have propelled the demand for sustainable mobility solutions. Governments and authorities worldwide are implementing policies and regulations to encourage the purchase and adoption of EVs. Subsidies, tax credits, and favorable financing options further incentivize buyers to opt for electric vehicles, both new and used. This governmental push for a greener environment creates a virtuous cycle, fostering the accelerated growth of the used EV market.
Importantly, the financial savings associated with used EVs provide another significant incentive for potential buyers. Electric vehicles are known for their lower operating costs compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Used EVs, often sold at a fraction of the price of new models, provide even greater upfront savings. Additionally, the typically lower maintenance and repair costs of electric vehicles make them an attractive choice for budget-conscious individuals. These financial advantages, coupled with the longer lifespan and increased reliability of modern EVs, make the used EV market a compelling proposition.
While the used EV market gains momentum, it is essential to acknowledge and address the challenges associated with the sector. One of the primary concerns for buyers is the state-of-charge and battery health of used vehicles. However, advancements in battery diagnostics and increased transparency from sellers are mitigating these concerns. Industry players are actively working to provide accurate information about battery health, charging habits, and vehicle history to prospective buyers, assuaging their worries and building trust in the market.
In conclusion, the market for used electric vehicles is booming, driven by factors such as improved battery technology, a wider variety of available models, governmental support, and increasing environmental awareness. The combination of these elements creates an appealing environment for both buyers and sellers, with financial savings, sustainability benefits, and increased reliability being key contributing factors. As the automotive industry continues its transition towards electric mobility, the used EV market is set to become a dominant force in the years to come.