The second-hand electric vehicle market is preparing for a radical change. According to Cox Automotive, only 123,000 EV lease contracts expired in 2025, but this figure will double to 300,000 in 2026, reaching 660,000 in 2028. More than a million units will flood the used market in three years, promising lower prices and greater accessibility for drivers.
The tsunami of used batteries and its technical impact ⚡
The massive influx of leased EVs will re-enter the second-hand market. This means buyers will need to pay attention to battery degradation, a key factor in pricing. Models from 2022-2024, with NMC or LFP chemistry, will show varying states of health. The availability of OBD diagnostic data and remaining capacity certifications will be crucial to avoid purchases with reduced range. The supply will force sellers to be more transparent.
Buy an EV or a charger subscription? 🔌
With half a million plug-in cars arriving all at once, the second-hand market will look like an appliance outlet. Prices will drop so much that you might buy an electric car for less than a top-of-the-line scooter. Of course, you'll then discover the battery only has enough range for a trip to the corner supermarket, but hey, the ride will be eco-friendly and cheap. Just make sure your home charger isn't the same one you use for your phone.