BEVs outperformed the market, reveals cap hpi

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) outperformed the market in November, taking an average of just 33 days to sell, according to cap hpi. BEVs aged three to five years old, which often fall within the retail price point of under £18,000, moved in an average of 25.5 days.

Diesel vehicles were the slowest to sell (42 days), followed by Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (41 days). Petrol cars performed slightly better (39 days), and Hybrid Electric Vehicles averaged 37 days.

Chris Plumb, head of current car valuation at cap hpi, said: “As the used car market for battery electric vehicles continues to mature, it is encouraging to see that many of the key performance indicators for this fuel type, especially in the important retail age band of three to five years, are positive.

“As we have highlighted, BEVs within this age band now represent exceptional value for money. When factoring in the total cost of ownership (TCO) savings and the remaining battery warranty, they present a compelling offer to used car buyers”.

Dealers have reported steady trading conditions and unseasonably strong demand. Retail price adjustments were mainly limited to ageing stock. Most retailers have avoided overstocking, the urgency to cut prices.

Plumb said: “November presented challenges for the used car retail sector as half-term holidays, the Autumn Budget announcement, and a key court ruling on undisclosed commission payments created uncertainty.

“While the Autumn Budget initially raised concerns about consumer behaviour, its immediate impact was minimal.

“However, retailers face rising operating costs in 2025, including increased National Insurance contributions and a higher National Living Wage, prompting businesses to reevaluate their strategies and workforce planning to mitigate potential profit margin pressures.”