Used Tesla EV prices have soared in the United States lately. Elektrek conducted a bit of research using the manufacturer’s website and found that many vehicles now cost more than their just-produced counterparts in mint condition.
For instance, a two-year-old Model Y SUV with nearly 50,000 kilometers (31,000 miles) on it comes priced $1,000 above an identical new spec. A dual-motor Model Y with only one year and less than 25,000 km (15,000 miles) behind it is inexplicably listed for $80,300, although you can obtain a maxed-out latest model for $68,000.
According to Electrek, these cars end up costing between $6,000 and $10,000 more than they did two or three years ago, if you factor in the constant price increases. As it turns out, their owners made smart investments that they can now profit on.
The reporters propose several explanations. The first and most obvious one is the ongoing chip shortage, which reduces the number of new cars sold and makes customers willing to consider used offers even at premium prices.
Second, Tesla accounts for 75% of all new EVs coming to the North American market. Last but not least, used EVs are in much slimmer supply than used ICE cars in the States, meaning that when one crops up on sale, you are facing the choice between grabbing it at once paying a significant premium or waiting 6-9 months for a better deal from the manufacturer.