Market Watch: These Used EVs Are Considered Rare In Singapore

A quick scan over Singapore roads reveal cars mainly of a family-leaning nature, which comes as little surprise. One-car garages are often the norm given how prohibitive car ownership is from a financial perspective. These cars tend to do-it-all - provide comfort and deliver plenty of range in the process. The latter unfortunately rules most EVs out of the picture, regardless of their whisper quiet operation.

This brings us to the used car market featuring EVs - a subdivision which is still in its infancy. A quick scan revealed less than 100 used EV listings on Carousell’s used car classifieds, out of more than 7000 vehicle listings. BYDs and Teslas occupy a notable chunk. Not a time to be shopping for less common EVs, you’ll reckon, but there’s still a glimmer of hope from the three we’ve extracted in this feature.

They might be commonly seen in parts of Europe, but here in Singapore where COEs and accompanying taxes regulate our thought and purchase process, identifying them feels like a pipe dream. It’s never too early to indulge in a niche in the EV sphere - these rare groove machines take on a different beat.

2024 BMW i5 Touring eDrive40

Barely a year in, this electric wagon has popped up for sale. According to the ad, save “more than $64k from brand new”. At 30k annual depreciation, it’s a big chunk of dough, still. But it’s the only pre-owned option if you’re looking for an electric wagon.

In our review last October, we mentioned that “the Touring will stand out in the future resale market, and may even pay for its own premium”. 1,700 litres of boot space, 335hp, M Sport variant, agent warranty - these point towards strong-contender status. Will anyone bite the bullet? Only time will tell.

2024 Volkswagen ID.5 Pro

A Volkswagen will never be considered rare, unless we’re talking about the physics-defying XL1 or bonkers GTI W12-650. But in a sea of BYD Atto 3 and Tesla Model 3, the ID.5 Pro seems to be enjoying its time in the limelight here in Singapore.

282hp and 545Nm are competitive numbers but not entirely striking. The Polestar 2 and Audi Q4 e-tron could rank higher in your shortlist, too. But if you’re after VW ease-of-use and yearn to hop on the EV bandwagon, this will crawl its way into your affections.

2023 Kia EV6 GT-Line

Doesn’t sound right to classify a car used as taxis in other markets as rare, but it all makes sense when it's deployed in Singapore. In dual motor format, the Kia EV6 GT-Line attracts more road tax than primarily single motor, Cat A-friendly counterparts.

Well, this could be a small price to pay for standing out. Driving a 320hp Korean EV (that is not an IONIQ 5) can be quite a flex. Like how the Cupra brand attracts nonconformists, due to the tax structure here, this AWD EV6 somehow weaves its way into rarefied territory.

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