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#Economy #Sustainability #Energy
Rest of World
Rest of World
3d ago 14 views

EVs are depreciating much faster than gas-powered cars

The resale value of electric vehicles is collapsing worldwide, primarily due to rapid depreciation and uncertainty about battery lifespans. This crisis threatens the sustainability movement and financial viability for fleet operators.
EVs are depreciating much faster than gas-powered cars
A What happened
The global electric vehicle (EV) market is facing a severe depreciation crisis, with resale values plummeting significantly faster than those of traditional gas-powered vehicles. Recent data indicates that EVs can lose up to 60% of their value within three to five years, compared to less than half for gas cars. This issue has been highlighted by the collapse of BluSmart, an all-electric ride-hailing service in India, which flooded the market with low-priced vehicles after financial troubles. Fleet operators, such as Hertz, have reported massive losses due to the declining value of their EV investments. The uncertainty surrounding battery lifespan and performance contributes to this depreciation, as potential buyers are wary of the long-term viability of used EVs. However, emerging battery-as-a-service models may provide a pathway to stabilize the market by offering predictable costs and values. As consumer confidence in battery technology improves, resale prices may begin to recover.

Key insights

  • 1

    Rapid EV Depreciation

    EVs can lose over 60% of their value in just a few years.

  • 2

    Impact on Fleet Operators

    Declining resale values threaten the financial viability of fleet businesses.

  • 3

    Battery Lifespan Uncertainty

    Uncertainty about battery life significantly affects EV resale values.

  • 4

    Potential Solutions

    Battery-as-a-service models may stabilize the EV resale market.

Takeaways

The depreciation crisis in the electric vehicle market poses significant challenges for both individual consumers and fleet operators. However, innovative solutions like battery leasing could help restore confidence and stabilize resale values in the future.