As 2025 approaches, Israel’s electric vehicle (EV) market celebrates a significant milestone: three years since EVs began reshaping the country's automotive landscape. This shift started in 2021 with the entry of models such as the Geely Geometry C, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Skoda Enyaq and Tesla, which collectively redefined affordability and performance for Israeli consumers.
Now, three years later, many of those early EVs are entering the second-hand market, a stage often considered ideal for ownership turnover. This emerging market raises critical questions for prospective buyers: Is a used EV worth the investment, and what factors should buyers consider?
Battery concerns: A non-issue
Contrary to common fears, battery degradation in modern EVs is minimal, often reducing the driving range by just a few kilometers after three years. While ensuring access to proper charging infrastructure remains crucial, battery health is no longer a major concern for used EV buyers.
Registration costs: A looming challenge
EV owners have long enjoyed discounted annual registration fees, but this is set to change. Starting January 2025, the Israeli government will align EV registration costs with those of gasoline vehicles, potentially increasing annual fees from the current 426 shekels to an average of 2,000 shekels.
Additionally, EVs that bypassed roadworthiness tests during their first three years will now face mandatory inspections, potentially uncovering costly issues. Experts recommend purchasing EVs that have already undergone their first test or negotiating prices to account for upcoming registration hikes.
Maintenance realities
Despite the perception that EVs require minimal maintenance, they still need regular servicing. Systems such as brakes, cooling fluids, and hydraulic components demand periodic attention. After three years, some models require significant maintenance, including coolant replacement, which can cost over 3,000 shekels.
Buyers should prioritize EVs with completed maintenance records or contact authorized service centers to estimate costs for upcoming repairs.
Charging capabilities: A key factor
Charging speed and compatibility remain critical considerations. While most Israelis now understand the importance of battery capacity, charging speed varies significantly between models. EVs with three-phase charging capabilities can recharge much faster than those with single-phase systems.
For buyers relying on public fast-charging stations, it’s important to recognize that many mainstream EVs cannot utilize ultra-fast charging speeds, unlike premium models such as the Hyundai Ioniq 6.
Insurance costs: An overlooked expense
Insurance for EVs can be more expensive than for gasoline vehicles due to higher repair costs, especially for battery packs and sensors. Prospective buyers should compare insurance quotes before finalizing a purchase to avoid unexpected costs.
Market innovation: A double-edged sword
The rapid evolution of EV technology means that a new model offering better features or lower prices could soon render older used EVs less appealing. For example, models like the Geely Geometry C, once a dominant choice, were overtaken by newer options like BYD’s Atto 3.
Buyers should assess whether they truly need a three-year-old EV or if an upcoming affordable model could better suit their needs.
Conclusion
Israel’s burgeoning second-hand EV market offers opportunities and challenges. By carefully evaluating factors like maintenance history, charging capabilities, and market trends, buyers can navigate this dynamic landscape and make informed decisions. For those prioritizing value and innovation, staying alert to new releases may prove just as essential as scrutinizing used EV options.
Get the Ynetnews app on your smartphone: