Used EVs Outsell Petrol and Diesel Cars Amidst Price Drop

Used EVs Outsell Petrol and Diesel Cars Amidst Price Drop

dailymail.co.uk

Used EVs Outsell Petrol and Diesel Cars Amidst Price Drop

Used electric vehicles (EVs) sold in an average of 33 days in November, significantly faster than other fuel types due to lower prices under £18,000, offering exceptional value; this contrasts with the new EV market's relatively low demand.

English
United Kingdom
EconomyTechnologyUk EconomyAutomotive IndustryConsumer TrendsEv SalesUsed Electric Vehicles
Cap HpiAuto Trader
Chris Plumb
What factors drove the rapid sales of used electric vehicles in November?
Used electric vehicle (EV) sales surged in November, with an average sales period of 33 days compared to 40 days for all fuel types. This speed is attributed to lower prices, making them more attractive than petrol or diesel alternatives. Three-to-five-year-old EVs sold even faster, averaging 25.5 days.
How do the sales trends of used EVs compare to other fuel types, and what accounts for the differences?
The increased availability of used EVs under £18,000 significantly boosted sales. This price point offers exceptional value, considering total cost of ownership savings and remaining battery warranties. The faster sales contrast sharply with the new car market, where EV demand remains relatively low.
What are the potential long-term implications of this surge in used EV sales for the automotive market and consumer behavior?
The strong used EV market suggests a potential shift in consumer behavior, driven by affordability and value. This trend may accelerate EV adoption, potentially impacting the new car market and influencing future EV pricing strategies. The resilience of the used car market overall despite seasonal factors also points to continued strength.

Cognitive Concepts

4/5

Framing Bias

The article's headline and introduction immediately emphasize the positive trend of rapid used EV sales. The consistent use of positive language ('snapping up', 'rock-bottom prices', 'flying off forecourts', 'exceptional value') frames the story favorably towards EV adoption. This framing might overshadow potential drawbacks or complexities related to the used EV market.

3/5

Language Bias

The article uses overwhelmingly positive and enthusiastic language to describe the used EV market. Words like 'snapping up', 'rock-bottom', 'flying off forecourts', and 'exceptional value' create a strongly positive impression. While this is not necessarily biased, it lacks the neutrality expected in objective reporting. More neutral alternatives could include 'increasing sales', 'low prices', 'high sales volume', and 'good value'.

3/5

Bias by Omission

The article focuses heavily on the positive aspects of used EV sales, potentially omitting challenges or drawbacks associated with EV ownership, such as charging infrastructure limitations, battery lifespan concerns, or higher repair costs compared to petrol/diesel vehicles. It also doesn't explore potential negative environmental impacts associated with EV battery production and disposal. The lack of dissenting voices or counterarguments weakens the overall analysis.

3/5

False Dichotomy

The article presents a somewhat false dichotomy by contrasting the strong used EV market with relatively low demand for new EVs. While acknowledging the influence of fleet purchases and salary sacrifice schemes on new EV sales, it doesn't fully explore other factors that might contribute to the discrepancy, such as the higher initial cost of new EVs, consumer apprehension about technology, or range anxiety. The focus is primarily on price as the driving factor in the used EV market.

Sustainable Development Goals

Affordable and Clean Energy Positive
Direct Relevance

The increasing sales of used electric vehicles (EVs) contribute to the wider adoption of sustainable transportation, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting cleaner energy sources. Lower prices make EVs more accessible to a broader range of consumers, accelerating the transition to a more sustainable transportation sector. The quote "As the used car market for battery electric vehicles continues to mature, it is encouraging to see that many of the key performance indicators for this fuel type...are positive" highlights the positive impact on the shift towards sustainable energy.