Full Breakdown
Surge in Used Electric Vehicle Sales in Europe Amid Rising Petrol Prices from Iran Conflict
3/26/2026, 2:33:32 PM
Impact of the Iran War on Fuel Prices
The ongoing conflict in Iran, which began on February 28, 2023, has significantly disrupted global oil supply routes, accounting for approximately 20% of the world's oil transport. This disruption has led to a notable increase in petrol prices across Europe, with the average cost rising by 12% from €1.64 to €1.84 per liter between February 23 and March 16, according to European Commission data. As a direct consequence, consumers are increasingly shifting their preferences from traditional combustion-engine vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs).
Rising Demand for Used Electric Vehicles
The surge in petrol prices has catalyzed a remarkable increase in the sales of used EVs across Europe. Terje Dahlgren, an analyst at Finn.no, Norway’s largest used-car marketplace, described the current market as an "electric car bonanza," noting that EVs have recently surpassed diesel vehicles as the best-selling category on the platform. French online used-car retailer Aramisauto reported that its share of EV sales nearly doubled from 6.5% in mid-February to 12.7% by early March. Similar trends have been observed across various European countries, with platforms like mobile.de in Germany reporting a tripling of EV-related searches from 12% to 36% since early March.
Broader Market Trends and Consumer Behavior
The increase in used EV sales is not solely a reaction to rising petrol prices; it also reflects a broader trend towards electrification that was already underway prior to the conflict. Christian Gisy, CEO of Olx, noted that interest in EVs was on the rise before the war, but the instability has accelerated this transition. The availability of a wider range of models and the introduction of battery-health certificates have further alleviated consumer concerns regarding second-hand EVs.
Used EVs are particularly appealing to consumers due to their lower price point—up to 40% cheaper than new models—and immediate availability, contrasting with the lengthy delivery times often associated with new vehicles. Alastair Campbell, vice president of growth at Marketcheck, emphasized that the momentum in used EV sales is likely to continue as the market adjusts to the ongoing global events.
Regional Insights and Sales Data
In the Nordic countries, platforms owned by Norway’s Vend have reported significant increases in EV sales. For instance, Swedish platform Blocket noted an 11% rise in EV sales in early March compared to the previous two weeks, alongside a 17% increase in views of EV listings. Denmark's Bilbasen has also observed rising searches for EVs, attributed primarily to higher petrol prices.
In Germany, mobile.de reported a 66% increase in inquiries for used EVs compared to February, highlighting a clear shift in consumer behavior towards more fuel-efficient alternatives.
Official Statements & Responses
Automakers are responding to the changing market dynamics by emphasizing the cost of petrol in their marketing strategies. For example, MG, owned by China’s SAIC, is running campaigns in France encouraging consumers to rethink their driving habits in light of rising fuel costs.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There is currently a wave of electric vehicle enthusiasm in the second-hand car market.” — Terje Dahlgren, Analyst at Finn.no
- “As soon as petrol prices exceed 2 euros per litre, it makes a lasting impression on consumers.” — Romain Boscher, CEO of Aramisauto
- “More people are clearly seeking fuel-efficient alternatives.” — Marcin Stepman, Car Expert at Blocket
- “Currently, high gasoline prices are driving growing demand for electromobility.” — mobile.de
The ongoing conflict in Iran continues to reshape consumer preferences in Europe, driving a significant shift towards electric vehicles as petrol prices remain elevated.
