Australia’s used electric vehicle (EV) market is experiencing a decisive shift, with private buyers embracing second-hand EVs in increasing numbers while dealers remain hesitant. According to the latest Pickles Quarterly Automotive Report (Q1 2025), consumer confidence is strengthening around used EVs as price volatility eases, battery performance proves reliable, and value propositions become clearer.
Private Buyers Now Driving the Market
Used EVs are no longer a niche purchase. In Q1 2025, approximately 60% of all used EVs sold by Pickles were purchased by private buyers – a substantial majority that marks a turning point in consumer behaviour. As Brendon Green, General Manager of Automotive Solutions at Pickles, explains: “Buyers have done their research, and they know what they want. They’re looking for value, battery performance and reliability – and they’re finding it in the used EV market”.
This buyer shift comes despite lingering dealer reluctance. Over the past 12 months, Pickles’ top 10 trade buyers purchased more than 7,000 internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles but just 26 used EVs in the same period. While dealers cite fears of price fluctuations and uncertainty around battery condition, the data increasingly suggests these concerns are outdated.
Price Stability Calms the Market
Price volatility was a significant barrier to dealer adoption during 2023 and early 2024, when average used EV values fell from ~\$55,000 to ~\$36,000 – a 37% drop. However, since July 2024, used EV prices have held steady, dipping only 1% and ending Q1 2025 with an average price of \$36,400.
This period of stability is critical for restoring confidence. “There’s a real opportunity here,” Green says. “Dealers who re-engage with used EVs now can position themselves early, while margins are still strong and competition is light”.
Battery Health Myth Busted
Battery condition remains a sticking point for many hesitant dealers, but Pickles’ data is breaking down the myths. Testing on more than 400 used EVs revealed an average battery State of Health (SoH) of 93%, including vehicles with over 60,000 km. In fact, charging behaviour – rather than distance travelled – is now seen as the key factor in preserving battery longevity.
“Battery health isn’t about how far you drive – it’s about how you charge,” says Brendon Green. “We’re seeing EVs with tens of thousands of kilometres still scoring over 95% SoH because their owners follow good charging practices”.
Pickles is now leading the industry by introducing State of Health scores on auction listings, allowing all buyers – private and trade – to bid with greater confidence.
Brands Gaining Ground
Tesla continues to lead the used EV market in Australia, particularly with the Model 3 and Model Y. However, brands like Hyundai (Kona, IONIQ), Nissan (Leaf), Kia, MG, and BYD are rapidly gaining traction, reflecting broader diversification in both new and used EV offerings. Sales volumes through Pickles grew around 20% over the quarter, further cementing EVs as a mainstream used car option.
Looking Ahead
Despite expectations of a seasonal dip in Q2 2025, the outlook for used EVs remains strong. Cost-of-living pressures and high new car prices are pushing more Australians to consider used options. For many, the used EV market now offers the best value entry point into electrified driving, with cars selling for nearly half their original retail price.
The challenge now is for dealers to catch up. As Green notes, “We’re past the early adopter phase. Buyers are becoming more sophisticated – and dealers have a chance to meet them there”.
With battery data transparency improving and pricing stabilised, used EVs are no longer a risky bet. The market is evolving quickly – and those ready to act stand to benefit.
