Used electric car: how much is it worth after 5 years?

In recent years, the growth of the zero-emission vehicle market has sparked new reflections in the used car sector: how much is an electric car really worth after five years? A crucial question, both for those looking to sell it and for those considering purchasing a used one, driven by curiosity about the price and the desire to make a good deal compared to buying new.

In this article, we analyze the main factors that influence residual value, the most requested models in the used market, and offer practical advice for better orientation, both from the seller's side and that of the buyer.

The residual value of used electric cars

What is meant by residual value

The residual value indicates how much a vehicle is worth after a certain period, in relation to its initial price. For a used electric car, this value can vary significantly based on:

• Make and model

• Mileage driven

• Battery condition

• Year of registration and software updates

• Market demand
  
  

Why electric cars depreciate differently

Electric cars, especially in the first few years, tend to depreciate more rapidly compared to combustion vehicles, primarily due to the rapid technological evolution. However, the market is changing: the value tends to stabilize after the initial years, especially for models with updateable software and good autonomy, as in the case of a used electric car Tesla.

Factors influencing the value of a used electric car after 5 years

1. Battery condition

The battery is the heart and the most expensive component of an EV. After 5 years, it can lose between 10% and 20% of its capacity, but if well maintained and under warranty, the value of the car remains competitive.

2. Presence of remaining warranty

Warranties on batteries (up to 8 years or 160,000 km) make used electric cars for sale safer and can justify a higher price.

3. Software updates

Updateable over-the-air models, like Teslas, appreciate over time due to their ability to remain technologically current even after purchase.

4. Incentives and local market

Scrap bonuses, access to restricted traffic zones, and regional incentives directly influence the demand for used cars and thus the price of a used electric car.

5. Model reputation and maintenance

Reliable models like the Renault Zoe, Tesla Model 3, or Fiat 500e enjoy a good reputation in the used market, helping to maintain a stable value.

What is the average value of a used electric car after 5 years?

Electric cars show very different behaviors in terms of value retention over time. Here is an overview of the estimated depreciation of some popular models after five years.

Tesla Model 3

• Initial price: About €45,000

• Estimated residual value after 5 years: Between €24,000 and €28,000

• Depreciation: About 55.9%

Despite the high purchase price, the used Tesla electric car retains a good portion of its value over time, making it one of the electric models most resistant to depreciation.

Nissan Leaf

• Initial price: Around €35,000

• Value after 5 years: Estimated between €15,000 and €18,000

• Depreciation: Over 60%

Compared to other models, the Leaf tends to lose value more quickly, with a significant market price reduction already in the medium term.

Renault Zoe

• Purchase price: About €30,000

• Estimated value after 5 years: Between €12,000 and €15,000

• Depreciation: Between 50% and 60%

The used Renault Zoe electric car ranks in the mid-range of depreciation among electric cars, offering decent value retention compared to the initial cost.

Fiat 500e

• Price at the time of purchase: Around €30,000

• Residual value after 5 years: Between €14,000 and €17,000

• Depreciation: Between 43% and 53%

The Fiat 500e shows a good capacity to retain its value over time, positioning itself better than many other electric models.

BMW i3

• List price: About €40,000

• Expected value after 5 years: Between €18,000 and €22,000
  Depreciation: Between 45% and 55%
  
  

The BMW i3 offers moderate depreciation, establishing itself as a premium car that manages to maintain a good residual value over the long term.

Advice for those selling or buying a used electric car

If you are selling:

• Have the battery condition certified

• Highlight the remaining warranty

• Update the software before the sale

• Show the service and maintenance history
  
  
  

If you are purchasing:

• Check the battery condition and charge cycles

• Verify any recalls

• Check compatibility with fast charging

• Compare the price of the used electric car with the offers on new cars with incentives

FAQ: Used electric cars

What is the best used electric car?

Among the most appreciated models are the Tesla Model 3, for its excellent value retention and advanced technology, and the Renault Zoe, for those looking for an economical and reliable solution. The Fiat 500e is also very popular in urban areas.

Why are there so many used electric cars for sale?

In recent years, registrations of electric vehicles have increased thanks to government incentives. Today many of these vehicles are entering the used market. Additionally, some users are transitioning to newer models with greater autonomy.

Is it worth buying a used electric car?

Yes, especially if the condition of the battery is known and the quality/price ratio is carefully evaluated. Thanks to the price reduction compared to new and lower management costs, a used electric car can be a smart choice.

The value of a used electric car after five years varies based on several factors, but with good analysis and the right attention to maintenance and the battery, it is possible to make a great deal. Whether you want to buy or sell, the advice is always the same: stay informed, compare, and rely on professionals in the field.