Discussions at the World Economic Forum
DEKRA CEO in Davos: "effective functioning of the used car market for electric vehicles is indispensable for accelerated EV adoption"
DEKRA reflects on a successful participation at the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2025 in Davos. In its 100th anniversary year, the company took advantage of the global platform to address key challenges and explore solutions for sustainability and the future of mobility.
One of the key areas of focus for the DEKRA delegation was accelerated adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). CEO Stan Zurkiewicz highlighted: “When discussing challenges in the adoption of electric vehicles, the discussions often revolve around affordability, including initial purchase costs and various government incentive programs. The performance of EVs in terms of range, charging time, and availability of charging infrastructure is another major topic. Safety concerns also play a role.”
The used car market for electric vehicles needs to evolve
However, one crucial aspect is often overlooked, according to the DEKRA CEO. “The state of health of the market for used electric vehicles receives far too little attention. Currently, this market is not functioning properly. However, its effective functioning is indispensable for accelerated EV adoption. Electric vehicles typically lose 60% or more of their value within the first three years of ownership, and even at costs of less than 40% of the new vehicle price, used EVs simply do not sell,” Zurkiewicz stated.
The data underscores the need for action. According to the International Energy Agency, only 450,000 used electric vehicles were sold in major European countries in 2023, 400,000 in the U.S., and 800,000 in China—a relatively small figure compared to the global EV car fleet of approximately 40 million vehicles. “Multiple factors contribute to this situation, but a lack of trust in the state of health of used EV batteries is one of the main ones,” Zurkiewicz explained.
DEKRA as a pioneer in building trust in used electric vehicles
When it comes to assessing the state of health of EV batteries, DEKRA stands as a trusted expert. The company has already tested more than 25,000 used electric vehicles across over 130 different models using cutting-edge testing technology. Its patented process delivers fast, independent, and precise assessment.
“Our tests show that most traction batteries, even those with higher mileages, are in much better condition than consumers fear—frequently with a remaining capacity of more than 90%,” said the DEKRA CEO.
The testing, inspection and certification organization calls for a closer collaboration between governments and the automotive industry to establish a system that provides dealers and buyers with the necessary trust and confidence. “It is crucial that the relevant stakeholders, particularly governments and the automotive industry at large, work together to establish a framework which will provide trust and confidence for all parties involved in the purchasing process. This will lead to accelerated adoption of electric vehicles and positive environmental impacts that we all aspire to achieve.”
DEKRA remains committed to a sustainable future
Additionally, DEKRA has joined the WEF CEO Climate Leaders Group in Davos and is actively supporting the energy transition. The company is committed to science-based climate targets (SBTi) aligned with the Paris Agreement’s 1.5-degree goal and offers an expanding range of innovative services related to the energy transition and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives.