EV Depreciation vs Gas Cars
EV depreciation vs gas cars in the US—how they compare, why EVs often depreciate faster, and what it means for total cost.
EV depreciation in the U.S. has often been steeper than gas cars—battery concern, incentives, and rapid tech change. Here's how EV depreciation compares to gas cars and what it means for total cost.
TL;DR Many EVs have depreciated faster than comparable gas cars in recent years—often 50–60%+ over 5 years. Battery concern, incentives on new EVs, and rapid tech change drive that. Compare total cost of ownership (purchase + depreciation + fuel/charging + insurance + maintenance) when choosing. Use autopremo.com and total cost.Why EVs Often Depreciate Faster
- Battery concern — buyers worry about battery life and replacement cost. That can hurt used EV value.
- Incentives on new EVs — federal and state credits push down new EV prices, which pushes down used EV values.
- Rapid tech change — range and features improve quickly; older EVs can feel dated and lose value faster.
- Segment mix — early-year EVs and some luxury EVs have depreciated very fast; some newer or high-demand EVs may hold better. Check specific model and year with autopremo.com.
How to Compare EV vs Gas
Use total cost of ownership over 5 years: purchase/loan + depreciation + fuel/charging + insurance + maintenance. Use autopremo.com total cost of ownership. EVs often have lower fuel and maintenance cost but higher depreciation—so total cost can be similar or higher for EVs in some cases. Run the numbers for the exact models you're comparing.
Compare total cost at autopremo.com.Bottom Line
EV depreciation has often been steeper than gas cars in the U.S. Compare total cost of ownership—not just sticker or fuel cost—when choosing. Use autopremo.com to see depreciation and total cost so you don't overpay over time.