Pre-owned Chinese electric vehicles are gaining traction in Europe as buyers seek more affordable alternatives to new models affected by import tariffs. China EV Marketplace (CEVM) reported a 280% year-over-year increase in sales to European Union customers, reaching 7,900 vehicles through September.
The company lists more than 2,600 used vehicles, including models from BYD, Geely and Zeekr. CEVM says its inventory includes low-mileage cars priced around 40% below their original Chinese list prices.
Used EVs Offer an Alternative to Tariff-Affected Imports
European Union tariffs on new Chinese battery-electric vehicles vary by manufacturer, reaching as high as 45.3% in some cases. CEVM says pre-owned vehicles are exempt from the additional EV tariffs and certain restrictions affecting new plug-in hybrid imports, making used cars a growing focus of its European business.
“Tariffs have already weakened demand for new Chinese BEVs among our European customers. We expect the hybrid import cap to put pressure on new PHEV sales too,” CEVM COO Jakub Geršl told CarNewsChina. “Pre-owned cars are exempt from the additional BEV tariffs and from the new hybrid (PHEV) quota. That is why we are making pre-owned vehicles the main focus of our European business.”
Geršl said the company regularly finds vehicles with around 6,000 kilometers on the odometer at approximately 40% below their original Chinese list prices.
Ownership Costs Remain a Key Consideration
China’s rapid model launches and price competition are contributing to depreciation, creating opportunities for overseas buyers to access relatively new EVs at lower prices.
However, import costs, registration requirements, warranty coverage, parts availability and servicing can affect the overall value of these vehicles. Their long-term competitiveness will depend not only on purchase prices but also on whether buyers can maintain and resell them with confidence.
The growing secondhand trade creates another channel for Chinese EVs to reach Europe, potentially increasing pressure on established automakers competing on affordability and technology.