KARLSRUHE (dpa-AFX) - Momentum is building in the secondary market for electric vehicles. The sector has evolved at a remarkable pace 'from a niche segment into an established market with growing supply, transparent pricing, and reliable quality standards,' says Patrick Plötz of the Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research (ISI). While used vehicles were virtually non-existent five to six years ago, the high registration volumes of 2020 and 2021 are now fueling a substantial increase in supply.
This trend is corroborated by data from the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA): in the first four months of the current year, nearly 120,000 used EVs changed hands nationwide. This figure is almost double that of the same period in 2025 and nearly triple the volume recorded between January and April 2024.
'Typical usage cycles span three to four years,' Plötz explains. Consequently, vehicles from the beginning of the decade are now reaching the used car market.
Broad Selection
Beyond the sheer volume of vehicles, model diversity has also expanded. From compact city cars to high-performance mid-range models, there is now a 'broad selection of vehicles suitable for daily use, offering solid range and strong charging performance.' Furthermore, a common argument against electric vehicles - higher price points - is largely neutralized in the used segment, according to the ISI. 'Used electric vehicles are now priced largely on par with comparable internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles,' Plötz writes.
One contributing factor may be that new electric cars depreciate significantly faster than ICE vehicles during their initial years, as evidenced by data from market observer Deutsche Automobil-Treuhand (DAT).
According to Fraunhofer, mileage plays a relatively minor role in pricing. The researchers' analysis found that doubling the annual mileage resulted in a price decline of only about two percent.
Stable Battery Performance
A primary concern when purchasing a used EV is battery health. However, Plötz offers reassurance here as well: 'Frequently voiced concerns regarding batteries can be largely debunked by current data,' he says. 'Modern battery systems are significantly more durable and reliable than long assumed.' Capacity typically declines by only one to two percentage points per year. After five years, most vehicles still retain more than 95 percent of their original range.
Overall, Plötz draws a positive conclusion: 'Used EVs make the transition affordable - offering extensive choice, predictable pricing, and reduced uncertainty.'/ruc/DP/zb
