Across the Netherlands, car buyers have turned increasingly to electric vehicles, making the used EV market as dynamic as the new-car sector. In 2025, the Tesla Model 3 stood out as the clear favorite, as data showed a strong preference not just for new models but for pre-owned electric vehicles as well. As electric mobility takes deeper root among Dutch drivers, the transition is visible both in dealership lots and private sales. The broad availability of the Model 3 has further reinforced its accessibility for buyers, presenting a notable trend in how electric vehicles are retained and circulated. Regulatory incentives and a reliable charging network have helped, but consumer preferences appear to be shifting beyond policy alone.
Reports from recent years pointed to the Tesla Model 3’s dominance in the new car segment, though previous used-car rankings showed a more even contest between early electric models like the Nissan Leaf and the BMW i3. However, these models have lost ground as Tesla’s production volumes rose and ownership shifted to the second-hand market. The Volkswagen ID.3, which once received attention for its affordability and brand trust, has now fallen far behind. More generally, other brands have not kept pace with Tesla’s ability to maintain resale values and steady turnover, reflecting changing brand loyalties among Dutch EV drivers.
Why Did the Model 3 Outperform Its Rivals?
The Model 3’s market penetration was remarkable in 2025. Out of over 2.1 million used cars sold across the country, 102,000 were electric, with the Tesla Model 3 accounting for 11,338 of those registrations—representing more than one in every ten used EVs. This dominant position left rivals trailing; the Volkswagen ID.3, in second place, posted just 4,595 sales. Such a gap highlights Tesla’s retention of buyer interest even as vehicles move through the ownership cycle.
What Factors Drove Demand for Used Electric Cars?
Supportive public policy, expanded charging infrastructure, and a maturing fleet of electric vehicles all contributed to elevated turnover in used EVs. The Model 3, with its relatively high resale value and broad availability, appears to have aligned closely with consumer priorities. From city commutes to longer journeys, the car’s performance profile and lower running costs offered strong incentives for secondhand purchases. A Tesla spokesperson commented,
“The sustained demand for the Model 3 in both new and used markets reflects our commitment to making electric vehicles accessible and attractive.”
What Role Did Brand and Pricing Play in Rankings?
Though the Audi e-tron and Volkswagen ID.3 maintained some popularity, their total numbers never approached those of the Model 3. Lower residual values in vehicles like the e-tron made them affordable, boosting their used market appeal despite higher original prices. Meanwhile, Tesla’s reputation for range and ease of use may have reassured cautious buyers. As Tesla’s representative affirmed,
“Our goal remains to offer innovative, reliable products that fit the needs of every stage in the vehicle lifecycle.”
The enduring lead of the Model 3 in the Netherlands’ used EV market tracks the same pattern seen in new-car registrations from earlier years, underscoring the model’s broad-based appeal and market staying power. Brands such as Volkswagen, Audi, Kia, and Hyundai have made inroads with models like the ID.3, e-tron, Niro, and Kona, but none rival Tesla in resale momentum. For buyers, the resale value and market liquidity of the Model 3 simplify the decision to enter or exit EV ownership. When weighing used EV options, prospective buyers should examine total cost of ownership, including depreciation, and assess future charging needs. Understanding historical selling trends can also indicate which vehicles may hold value over time, especially as incentives and supply dynamics shift.
