EV RVs impossible
February 18th, 2010 by Richard Aucock
CAP has declared it currently impossible to give an accurate estimate of electric car used values.
Uncertainty over their performance means there are just too many unanswered questions to make a judgment.
This is why, despite the UK electric cars such as the Nissan LEAF being imminent, dealers are unable to tell customers what they will be worth in the future.
The chief question, says CAP communications manager Mike Hind, is concern over battery replacement costs. These are currently so high – £10k or more – commercial EVs risk being left worthless after their warranties expire.
That’s why the firm is carrying out a lot of work to get the facts and make an informed future-proof decision.
‘One of the problems of this sector at the moment is the diversity of approaches being taken by manufacturers,’ said Hind.
‘Our customers are asking for clear information to enable them to plan their future vehicle mix strategies but there is still very little confirmed information from manufacturers around crucial questions such as battery finance options, battery life, anticipated replacement costs, charging systems and overall running costs.
‘This means we are unable to realistically offer a view on future residual values and only when those questions are answered will we be able to do so.’
Getting accurate RVs is a major part of costs-setting for new cars, so CAP’s decision will be crucial. But it will only be made once the firm has all its doubts answered.
Car Dealer Magazine will watch the progress of this fast developing sector, and keep you posted as and when CAP can offer more used electric car RV news.
Tags: CAP, electric car, ev, rv