Fuel Price Surge in Germany Pushes Consumers Toward Used Electric Cars

Residual values for used electric vehicles in Germany rose by 1.4 percentage points between May and August, according to market monitoring firm DAT. This shift follows a significant increase in gasoline and diesel prices, prompting consumers to reconsider their options when buying a used car.

Numbers Reveal a Shift in the Used Car Market

Gasoline-powered cars saw their residual values drop by 0.4 percentage points. Diesel took a harder hit, falling 1.1 percentage points. These figures reflect a clear shift in German consumer preferences, with Tesla and other electric models becoming more attractive in the used market.

Why Is the Rise in EV Residual Values Unusual?

Residual values for electric vehicles typically decline slightly throughout the year for technical reasons related to battery and technology development. But DAT data shows an exceptional rise this time. The average residual value for fully electric cars reached 51.5% of their new list price, compared to 58% for diesel and 59.4% for gasoline. The gap remains, but it has narrowed noticeably over the past year.

Used EVs Are Leaving Dealer Lots Faster

DAT noted a significant decrease in the time electric vehicles spend at dealerships before being sold. In May and previous months, dealers needed much longer to sell an EV compared to a combustion-engine car. That ratio has now reversed. Used electric vehicles are leaving showrooms faster, signaling a real shift in market dynamics.

DAT stated that fuel prices are the most important driver behind the decision to switch to electric mobility. These prices have increased demand for both used and new fully electric vehicles. The supply of used EVs has been relatively low for some time. In November 2025, the residual value for EVs did not exceed 48.4%, compared to 62.6% for gasoline and 61.2% for diesel. The shift is clear, and fuel price pressure is playing a central role in this change.