Your guide to buying a used EV
23 September 2024Three ways to counter the “I can’t afford it” objection in EV sales
When it comes to buying an electric vehicle (EV), it’s all about sustainability and the environment. Almost all.
While eco-awareness remains the primary driver behind EV sales, the high upfront costs are the main roadblock to purchase.
Out of the 50% of buyers who considered an EV when last shopping for a car, only 5% ultimately got one. And many are looking for flexible ownership options.
So the next time you’ve got a potential buyer eyeing an EV in your showroom, blocked by concerns about putting down the investment required, here’s what you can do to help them.
Unleash the power of flexibility with a subscription deal
70% of consumers prioritise flexible ownership models over the vehicle brand itself.
So yes, you should add subscriptions to your EV menu. But not the traditional subscription everyone’s used to and that typically only includes insurance, taxes, and basic maintenance to go.
We recommend premium add-ons, which according to research carried out by McKinsey, 64% of customers would pay an extra 10% and more. We suggest:
- Possibility to pause a contract at any time
- Option to switch cars midway through the lease
You could also take it a step further by providing access to a rental car outside the client’s hometown or shared short-distance mobility options like an e-bike.
Sweeten the deal with financing and insurance offers
A good EV financing and insurance deal can go a long way. Consider:
- Leases
- Tax credits
- Battery cover
- Maintenance deals
- Discounts backed by the plug-in grant
- Guaranteed asset-protection insurance
Including maintenance is a particularly strategic move. Yes, there will be fewer in-person checks needed. But they’ll also be more complex and require a more specialised tech and workforce.
For the customer, that can easily translate into higher maintenance costs —not something to look forward to (or help the sale today). However, if you have a good maintenance deal up your sleeve, that can sweeten the deal.
One final tip: It’s always worth reminding your prospective buyers of the additional financial benefits of EV ownership. These include exemption from the vehicle tax and compliance with ULEZ, Clean Air Zones, and Euro 7 standards. In other words—more access, fewer charges.
Build the ultimate EV ownership experience with all-in services
In this fast-paced world, convenience is king. People crave simplicity and ease.
So what better way to counter cost objections than by offering a special end-to-end service package? One that cuts the expenses of EV ownership and takes care of all the technical aspects of vehicle maintenance and the nitty-gritty of setting up cost-effective home EV charging.
Our recommendation is to create several packages that mix and match:
- Insurance
- Valet services
- Tyre maintenance
- Tyre replacement
- Solar panel installation
- Emergency charging assistance
- Smart EV chargers and installation
- Electronics and battery maintenance
- Customer platform to control energy use and electricity bills
Not only will you sell your customers cost-efficiency, but you’ll also sell them more time to enjoy their EV adventures.
And there you have it.
With subscriptions, end-to-end services, and, most importantly, a flexible, personalised approach to EV sales, you’ll be in a much better position to help your buyers achieve their EV dreams, improve the customer experience, and leave your competition in the dust.
Want more tips and ideas on how to answer the most common EV buyer questions and anxieties?
Download our guide:
How to answer EV buyers’ biggest questions & pain points (that are not about the vehicle)
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