In 2024, sales of new electric and hybrid cars grew significantly in Brazil, especially due to the competitive prices of Chinese automakers. But if you are thinking of buying one of these new cars, you may want to think again. Selling a used electric or hybrid car can be very complicated.
A study of the InstaCar showed that used electric and hybrid cars are being sold for up to 16% less than combustion cars and up to 30% below the Fipe table.
For example, a 2018 Toyota Prius is being sold for just 69.5% of the Fipe value, while a 2022 Hyundai HB20 reaches 86% of the market price.
Why does it happen?
Depreciation occurs for several reasons, but mainly because people still have many doubts about electric and hybrid vehicles.
The durability and maintenance costs of electrical systems are major concerns. Replacing the battery in an electric car, for example, can be very expensive. In addition, the lack of support infrastructure and uncertainty about the lifespan of these systems make consumers and retailers wary.
This distrust is the reason why businessman José Eduardo Affonso did not trade in his Caoa Chery Tiggo 5 for an electrified model. He previously owned a 2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid, but he thinks a pure electric car is not worth it because of the resale value.
Used electric and hybrid cars have tempting prices
At dealerships like Carrera, you can find ads for electric and hybrid cars with very attractive prices. Last Friday (28/6), there were eight vehicles from these brands, and seven of them were below the Fipe.
On the OLX website, we found 960 electric and hybrid vehicles manufactured between 2022 and 2024, many with prices up to R$13,000 below market price.
Luca Cafici, CEO of InstaCarro, compares buying a used electric or hybrid car to buying a used cell phone without knowing the condition of the battery. Without specific equipment, it is difficult to know the condition of the electrical system of these cars. This, together with the high cost of replacement or repair, means that these cars do not sell as well as combustion models.
Furthermore, it is worth remembering that the sustainability of electric cars is questionable. More than 80% of China’s electricity, for example, comes from coal, which is highly polluting. And battery production also has a significant environmental impact.
Despite all these concerns, Cafici believes that it is possible to find electric and hybrid cars in good condition. However, for them to become a viable option in the used car market, there needs to be more charging infrastructure and the market needs to mature, dispelling consumers’ doubts and prejudices.
Source: Atrevida
Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.
