Electric vehicles (EVs) are known for their high initial costs and rapid depreciation. Despite technological advancements leading to extended driving ranges, the depreciation trend has worsened since the federal EV tax credit ended in 2025. Some EVs now sell for less than 70% of their original MSRP, which is discouraging for early adopters but advantageous for those seeking used models.
This article reviews several popular EV models launched or updated in 2020, assessing their original MSRPs against their present-day values in the used market. Note that used car prices are subject to fluctuation, and vehicle values might change over time. Details on the methodology used for this analysis are provided at the article’s end.
Audi e-tron Sportback
The 2020 Audi e-tron Sportback, an electric crossover seating five, debuted with a starting price of $78,395 for the base model and $84,395 for the Prestige trim. Currently, a used version costs significantly less. According to KBB, prices are $22,300 for the base model and $18,600 for the Prestige. This model has depreciated by around 75%, losing an average of $60,945 in value, marking it as the highest depreciator on this list.
Chevrolet Bolt EV
The Chevrolet Bolt EV, with a notable range increase to 259 miles in 2020, had an MSRP of $37,495 for the LT Hatchback and $41,895 for the Premier. Now, they can be purchased used for $12,000 and $12,900, respectively, as per KBB. The Bolt’s depreciation stands at about 69%, with an average loss of $27,245.
Hyundai Kona Electric
KBB’s best electric car of 2020, the Hyundai Kona Electric, offered trims starting at $38,365 and going up to $46,575. Presently, it can be found for as low as $14,150 for the Limited trim, according to KBB. The average depreciation is around 66%, with a loss of $28,005.
Porsche Taycan
Porsche’s first all-electric vehicle, the 2020 Taycan, had a base price of $105,150. Today, its price has dropped significantly, with the 4S, Turbo, and Turbo S trims now available at $47,300, $63,500, and $76,600, respectively, according to KBB. The average depreciation for the Taycan is about 58%, equating to a $85,450 loss.
Tesla Model 3
In 2020, the Tesla Model 3 ranged from $36,200 to $56,190 for the Performance model. Its current used price is $19,050 for the base trim, according to KBB, with an average loss of $24,380, or 54% depreciation across trims.
Methodology
The evaluation involved notable EVs from 2020, using data from sources like Car and Driver and KBB. KBB’s Fair Purchase Price was used to compare original MSRPs with current used prices. Depreciation was calculated by averaging MSRPs and subtracting current average prices to determine value loss, with percentages rounded to the nearest whole number.
Original Story at www.bgr.com