This article was translated using the help of AI
Many consumers are skeptical about buying a used electric car. Is it a sustainable bargain – or a risk with unclear follow-up costs? Andreas Engel and Wilma Fasola explored precisely these questions in the podcast « Elektrogeflüster. » Their guest was Alberto Sanz de Lama, Managing Director of AutoScout24 at SMG Swiss Marketplace Group. With profound expert knowledge and current market data from AutoScout24, he classified the development of the used car market for electric vehicles.
More Supply, Falling Prices
AutoScout24’s market figures show a clear trend looking back at 2025: the used car market continued to gain importance – especially for electrified vehicles. Approximately 16 percent more used battery-electric vehicles were advertised during the year than in 2024. For used mild hybrids, growth was even over 30 percent. « We saw significantly more choice and more competition in 2025, » explains Alberto Sanz de Lama. « This increased supply created price pressure and made electric vehicles more accessible to a broader target group. » Accordingly, average prices fell: used battery-electric vehicles were, on average, 8.3 percent cheaper in 2025 than in the previous year. Prices had already fallen significantly in 2024 – particularly for high-priced models in the premium segment.
The Battery as a Central Trust Issue
The asking price is one thing – but many potential buyers are primarily concerned about possible follow-up costs. Hardly any topic was discussed as intensely in the podcast as the condition of the battery. It continues to be the biggest uncertainty factor when buying a used electric car. « The concern is understandable, but only partially justified, » says Sanz de Lama. « Modern batteries are more reliable and durable than many think – and in most cases, they are covered by a manufacturer’s warranty of eight years or more. » However, it is crucial that this information is communicated transparently and comprehensibly. Dealers play a central role in this. Information on battery condition (State of Health), service history, and existing warranties can significantly reduce uncertainties.
Trust is Built Through Information
To address this, AutoScout24 will soon offer the option to upload battery certificates directly with listings. These provide objective information on battery condition and build trust – for both buyers and sellers. User behavior also confirms the importance of transparency. User interviews show that meaningful photos, realistic prices, and clear information on mileage, vehicle condition, and equipment are crucial for interest in a listing. « The more complete and comprehensible an advertisement is prepared, the higher the probability that interested parties will engage with it or make contact, » says Sanz de Lama. Trust arises where information is comparable and understandable.
2025 Was a Transitional Market
Despite the growing supply in 2025, the market for used electric cars remains relatively small overall. While approximately one in five new cars on AutoScout24 was a plug-in vehicle, the share for used cars was around six percent. At the same time, 2025 showed that many buyers continued to hesitate, and used electric vehicles often had longer standing times.
The podcast makes it clear: a functioning used car market is central to extending vehicle use, conserving resources, and broadening sustainable mobility. The data-based review of 2025 shows that falling prices, growing selection, and increasing transparency are important prerequisites – and that the market for used electric vehicles is developing step by step.
To the podcast: