Market Watch: Used EVs With The Lowest Depreciation In Singapore

While tariffs have shook the world, we’ve yet to fully comprehend the full blown effects of how it will affect the automotive industry. One glaring consequence, no doubt, will be the increasing difficulty deploying Chinese EVs in the States. How that shores up America’s EV game plan remains anyone’s guess. But one thing’s for sure - Chinese EV makers have the R&D firepower to maintain, or even stretch their lead further.

Which makes us wonder when EVs will get more efficient. It might not take long before EV heavyweights eradicate range anxiety, too. Groundbreaking tech today might be irrelevant tomorrow. Batteries will get lighter over time, and charging speeds should match those of petrol pumps before we know it.

And surely these would have an impact on pre-owned EV sales. In neighbouring markets, we’ve seen some used EVs plunge in value after new cars engage in price wars, or release facelifts with significantly better tech and more range. In Singapore, price variations are not as obvious due to the COE structure (and already prohibitive price tags), but it would still be wise to shop around for the most affordable deals in the market.

2023 Citroen e-C4

Depreciation: S$13,000 per year

More affordable used EVs tend to be more mainstream - not in case of this Citroen e-C4, as rare as hen’s teeth in Singapore. Crossover-style SUVs are often an ingredient for success, but with the French on hand to electrify their C4, it leaves plenty to ponder for conservatives.

We’ve praised it (2023 review) for a plush ride, practicality and design, but felt it could do better in terms of range (363km quoted) and power (0-100km/h in 10.6 seconds). A 2 year unit with less than 20,000km? It’s as good as box fresh.

2022 BYD e6

Depreciation: S$12,000 per year

8 years / 500,000km of battery warranty should soothe any anxiety surrounding repair costs of these BYDs. An e6 is an approachable entry point to family EVs, with bags of space - 580 litres of luggage area with all seats up.

Sure, it’s no 7-seater e6 launched earlier this year, but visually it looks largely similar. DC charging is rated at 60kW and energy consumption is tagged at 5.8km/kWh. Toyota Wish owners could rank this high up in shortlists - it’s an accessible, less anxious way to jump on the EV bandwagon.

2022 MG ZS EV

Depreciation: S$12,600 per year

Another less flamboyant entry into the EV game makes transition from ICE propulsion more agreeable. The MG ZS is more compact than the HS and arguably more appropriate for our city streets.

Granted, it’s not based on a dedicated EV platform, but the petrol-powered ZS wasn’t a restrictive chassis to begin with. 445 litres of boot space, 17-inch rims and a wheelbase of 2,585mm are typical compact SUV numbers. More than 140hp and 353Nm should supply all the shove you’ll ever need in city traffic. Read our review of the facelifted ZS EV here.

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