Why one Tesla manager thinks used cars are ‘absolutely pivotal' for EVs
The remarks were delivered during the EV Summit 2023 in Oxford, England.
According to the U.K.'s Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), used battery electric vehicles sales increased by 81.8% in the second quarter to 30,645 units, and their market share reached a record of 1.7%.
Cox Automotive stated in April that the market for used EVs was "starting to accelerate quickly as more used EVs are available and buyers grab them."
Tesla's Michael Oates, a manager at the company, said that the used EV car market is "still in its infancy" compared to the brand-new EV industry.
According to a manager from Elon Musk's company, used electric vehicles will play a major role in the transition to sustainable transportation.
Tesla
.
The EV Summit will be held in 2023
Michael Oates, who heads up Tesla's U.K. sales and delivery team, said in Oxford this week that the mass adoption and use of electric vehicles is imminent. He also noted the important role used EVs would play in the transition.
He said that once the early adopters had adopted the technology, it was time to reach out to new audiences. These are people who hadn't considered buying an electric vehicle as their next car.
He added that there are other demographics worth considering, such as those who want to buy an EV but don't have the financial means to do so.
Oates stated that "I believe that used vehicles are crucial to ensuring that as many people can experience the joy of driving and owning an electric vehicle as possible."
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders in the U.K. reported that used battery electric vehicles sales increased by 81.8%, to 30,645
In the second quarter
Their market share has reached a new record of 1.7%.
April is a month of celebration.
Cox Automotive was founded in Cox, California.
The market for used EVs is "starting to accelerate quickly as more used EVs are available and buyers snap up these vehicles."
Cox Automotive data shows that retail used electric vehicle sales, or EVs purchased through a licensed dealer, increased by 32% in the first quarter of this year. This equates to 42,753 vehicles, it added later, citing estimations.
Tesla's Oates admitted that there is a long road ahead. He said that the used car market for EVs was still in its infancy compared to the brand new EV industry.
This is important because all the hard work done to dispel myths about range and infrastructure that led to a new car purchase must be repeated to a more skeptical audience of used EV buyers.
Cost is a major factor to consider, along with range and infrastructure.
Oates stated that "with our new cars starting just below PS40,000 (around $48700), we recognize that not everyone is able make the switch right away."
Used cars are "absolutely crucial" in "ensuring that as many people can switch to that traditional way of driving".
ICE Vehicle
"You can buy a used electric vehicle from any manufacturer."