VavaCars Commercial Group President Serdıl Gözelekli has emphasized that interest in used electric vehicles (EVs) will grow with the expansion of charging infrastructure, increased vehicle range, and adaptation by vehicle inspection firms.
According to a company statement, VavaCars conducted a survey with 1,143 participants, asking them what type of engine they would prefer in their next vehicle. The results showed 40% favoring hybrid, 25% gasoline, 22% electric, and 13% diesel vehicles.
Data from the Turkish Statistical Institute (TurkStat) show a sharp rise in electric vehicle adoption in the new car market. In June 2024, EVs accounted for 9.5% of new car sales, rising to 27.6% by June 2025. Similarly, the share of EVs in total vehicle sales rose from 8.5% in the first half of 2024 to 17.6% in the same period of 2025.
Gözelekli noted that while electric vehicles have gained strong momentum in the new car market, interest in the second-hand segment remains limited. He pointed out that infrastructure development is essential for boosting demand.
“While major metropolitan areas have a higher number of charging stations, availability remains limited in other cities. A more widespread charging infrastructure would encourage greater demand for used EVs, especially since users are often concerned about access to charging points during long-distance travel,” said Gözelekli.
Pricing Balance and Battery Testing Becoming Increasingly Important
Gözelekli stressed that pricing plays a crucial role in the second-hand EV market and that a stable balance between buyers and sellers has yet to be achieved. He explained that some newly produced EV models, due to technological advancements, are priced lower than models released two years ago, resulting in greater-than-expected depreciation.
“This leads to a loss in value beyond expectations. Additionally, the impact of battery condition and software updates on vehicle prices has not yet been fully understood or accepted. As a result, many consumers still gravitate toward conventional engine types they are more familiar with,” he added.
Gözelekli believes that as more of today’s new EVs enter the second-hand market in the near future, clearer standards will begin to emerge.
He also underlined the need for the automotive sector to adapt for the used EV market to thrive. “Electric vehicles have become a symbol of transformation in the automotive world. For this transformation to progress healthily in the second-hand market, several steps must be taken. Battery testing and the adaptation of inspection firms are among the key factors that will unlock the potential of used electric vehicles,” he concluded.
Source: Anadolu Ajansı/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök