At a time when the prices of new electric vehicles are skyrocketing, Tesla is cutting prices – and paradoxically preserving the value of its used models. How does it do this?
When most car Manufacturers complain about low margins and higher prices, Tesla throws down its tie and says, “We’ll lower the prices.” If that sounds like automotive suicide, get comfortable—the story is just getting interesting. Elon Musk and team are doing something most of the competition can’t even dream of—they’re simultaneously lowering the prices of new vehicles. and they increase profit per unit. In a world where every euro counts, this is almost magic... or just a brilliant strategy?
But that's not all - this pricing game has another unexpected effect: used Teslas lose value more slowly than most electric competitors, even though prices for new models are falling. Contrary to the basic logic of economics – a lower price for a new car means a lower value for a used car – different rules apparently apply to Tesla.
Tesla is breaking the conventional rules of the automotive market
The electric vehicle market has been changing rapidly since 2022, but Tesla remains a reliable anchor in a sea of innovation. While many manufacturers remain dependent on government subsidies – such as Romania’s Rabla Plus from to 5.151 € assistance, French programs limited to vehicles up to €47,500, or Italian Eco bonus, valid until July 2025 and offering up to 4.000 € support – Tesla has previously been able to adjust its pricing policy and thus maintain demand.
In Germany, where Gigafactory Berlin-Brandenburg has been mass-producing the Model Y in recent years, around 100,000 were registered between 2022 and 2024. 120.000 new Teslas. In the Netherlands, where tax breaks for electric vehicles are slowly phasing out, there were 58.200, in Sweden 60.000, while France and the United Kingdom follow with approximately 50.000 vehicles.
Interestingly, although subsidies have fallen or disappeared completely in several countries (for example, in Germany and Sweden), this has not stopped Tesla. Prices are falling, but demand remains - mainly due to the vehicle's performance, technological advantages and prudent sales policy.
Why do used Teslas retain value better than the competition?
At first glance, you might expect used Teslas to lose value as new models become more affordable. But the data suggests otherwise. Used Tesla buyers aren't just looking at the starting price, they're looking at the whole package: long-lasting software upgrades, stable battery performance, Tesla's network of superchargers, and its legendary streamlined mechanical design.
Tesla operates as a technology company. Regular OTA (over-the-air) The updates mean that even the three-year-old Model 3 is still receiving new features – from more advanced Autopilot to an improved user interface. When compared to classic cars, which are technologically outdated after three years, it’s clear why Teslas remain relevant.
Data from used vehicle markets (such as AutoScout24 or Mobile.de) show that devaluation of used Teslas among the lowest in the electric vehicle segment – in some cases even better than BMW, Mercedes or Audi. Although the new Model Y costs around 44.990 €, you can sell a used 2022 vehicle with low mileage for more than 35.000 €, which means significantly less loss of value than the competition, which often reaches 40–50 % in three years in electric vehicles.
Is Tesla really untouchable or just one step ahead of the rest?
Of course, there are also criticisms. From the minimalist interior, to the (sometimes) superficial workmanship and the lack of a classic service network. But despite all this "bad news", sales are not declining - on the contrary, the value of used vehicles is increasing.
Tesla doesn't offer discounts out of desperation. When they lower the price, they do so strategically - to trigger a wave of buying and push the competition into a corner where it suffocates in excess inventory and shrinking margins. So Elon Musk isn't playing chess - he's playing 4D chess with 100 million customers around the world.
Conclusion: Used Teslas a safe bet in an uncertain EV world?
If you are considering buying an electric vehicle today and are weighing up between a new Tesla and a competing model with a deep discount, there is a good chance that used Tesla still a better investment in the long runNot only because of its performance (Model Y accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds), its range (up to 533 km according to WLTP) or charging speed (up to 250 kW), but because it remains technologically relevant even years after purchase.
At the end of the day, Tesla may be the only automaker that sells not just cars, but an entire ecosystem of the future. And that future is – let’s face it – pretty bright. So: if you’re looking for an electric car with minimal depreciation and maximum technological efficiency, A used Tesla is not a compromise, it's a victory.
The price may no longer be the lowest on the market, but – look at it in a nutshell – the value remains. And in 2025, that may be the most valuable feature of all.
