The Global Automotive market is witnessing a major shift in the mobility pattern, and India is no exception. With the Indian government pushing for greener alternatives and consumers becoming more environmentally conscious, the EV market is booming exponentially in India. However, while new EV sales are soaring high, the second hand electric car market is lagging behind greatly. This article delves into the untapped potential of India’s second-hand used electric car market, the challenges it faces, and how it can benefit consumers:
India’s Used EV Cars Market: Current Situation
Market Overview
India’s market for second-hand used EV cars is still growing. By August 2024, a total of 156,227 electric vehicles were sold in India, which includes 6,336 electric cars. But when it comes to used electric cars, sales are much lower, with electric cars making up merely 2.1% of overall used car sales in the first quarter of 2024. This is due to the steep decline in the resale value and increase in depreciation of the electric cars, resulting in the slow growth of the second hand EV market in India. however, there is plenty of room for growth as more people see the benefits of owning an EV.
Buyer Hesitation
Many people are still unsure about buying used EVs in India. They worry about battery life and how reliable the cars will be. As a common mindset, used EV cars in India are considered outdated and require a lot of upfront charge for battery replacement. However, this is not true in most cases. This is a big problem for the second-hand EV market, but it also indicates that there’s a need for more education and transparency about used EVs in India.
Challenges for the second-hand Used electric cars market
Battery Degradation
One of the main concerns for EV buyers is the battery’s health. EV Batteries lose capacity over time and charge cycles, which can reduce the car’s driving range. In India, replacing an EV battery costs almost about 40% of the car’s price. For instance, the most popular Tata Nexon EV battery replacement costs between Rs 2.5 lakh and Rs. 4.5 lakh in India.
This high cost of battery replacement for used EVs makes buyers hesitant which lowers their resale value by up to 40% and makes buyers hesitant. However, newer battery technologies are helping to reduce these concerns, making used EVs a better option. These new Indigenous EV battery technologies are expected to help grow the secondhand electric car market in India.
Charging Infrastructure
A big challenge for the used EV market in India is the lack of charging stations near potential buyers. While the number of charging points is increasing, many areas still don’t have access. This is a key issue that turns off potential EV buyers looking to purchase a used electric car or electric scooter. This issue needs to be addressed to make second-hand EVs more appealing.
Financing and Insurance
While many buyers prefer financing their new EVs or cars in general, some wish to get their second-hand EVs financed by some financial institutions. There are few organizations that finance used petrol/diesel cars., but Getting loans or insurance for used EVs can be more difficult, This financial issue can discourage potential EV buyers. Lenders and insurance companies need to bring out new schemes or offers for buyers looking to buy used EVs to help this segment grow.
Opportunities for second hand electric car buyers
Cost Savings
Buying a used EV is a cheaper way to get into the electric vehicle ecosystem. Buying new EVs in India at present can be expensive, but buying a second-hand EV can offer great savings. For example, used EVs in India like the Mahindra XUV400 or Tata Nexon EV cost around ₹15 lakh and 11 lakhs, which is quite less compared to the initial cost. In the UK, used EV prices have dropped by 20% this year, making them more accessible. India could see similar trends if the market grows here, making EVs more affordable for potential buyers.
Environmental Benefits
Buying a second-hand EV is not only affordable but also better for the planet. Extending the life of electric vehicles by buying used EVs, helps reduce more waste and promotes sustainability. So, by choosing a used EV, you’re making a positive impact on the environment.
Government Support
Government policies like the FAME I, FAME II, and the upcoming FAME III scheme are launched for the acceleration of EV adoption in India. These initiatives could help boost the number of EVs in India, which someday would go to the second-hand EV market for resale, helping the sector thrive and grow.
Where to Buy Second-hand Electric Cars in India
Online Platforms
Popular online platforms like CarTrade, Cardekho, and Droom provide detailed listings of used EVs. These platforms ensure the quality of the vehicles, for buyer’s satisfaction. Popular Models like the Tata Nexon EV and MG ZS EV are available at good prices on these platforms.
Local Dealerships
For non-tech-savvy second-hand electric car buyers can avail them from local dealerships and auto outlets. Most EV owners reach out to them first before listing it on online platforms. So there’s a good chance you can find great offers in these outlets.
UK’s Growing used EV market
In countries like the UK, the second-hand EV market is thriving and growing exponentially. Used EVs are becoming more available and affordable every day, offering great opportunities for buyers. India can follow this same path, showing the global EV market that with better infrastructure and more awareness, the second-hand EV market can succeed along with the new ones.
Future trends of the second hand EV Market
Market Growth
As EV battery technology improves and indigenous manufacturing grows, battery replacement costs will go down significantly in India. If this happens the second-hand electric car market in India has huge potential. The Indian EV market is expected to grow from $3.21 billion in 2022 to $113.99 billion by 2029. This growth opens up big opportunities for the growth of used EV markets in India.
Collaborative Efforts
Automakers, dealerships, and policymakers need to work together to build a better system for used EVs in India. This teamwork can help solve current challenges and make used EVs a better option than scrapping EVs right away.
India’s second-hand EV market is still in its nascent stages but holds great promise for the future. By overcoming the current challenges and seizing the available opportunities in this segment, it can offer real value to both buyers and sellers. Those looking to join the electric revolution in an affordable way can opt for used EVs as a smart alternative, eco-friendly option. As the market grows, more people will find that second-hand EVs are a perfect fit for both budget and environment.