The Tesla Model Y broke the record for fastest seller (21 days) on the Dealer Auction platform.
Dealer Auction’s EV Performance Review (EVPR) for August reveals the average age peaked at 6.9 years in July but has now dropped to 5 years, the youngest average since April. Average mileage dropped from 68,050 to 49,240.
Dealer Auction’s marketplace director, Kieran TeeBoon, said: “For retail customers, each year we see that August is either all anticipation or it’s about taking action. Some customers choose to wait until after the plate change takes place to see what part-exchange vehicles become available.
“But others want to snap up the opportunities available now. August 2026 has been no different – and the data shows that there’s definitely a strong market for older EVs.
“Dealers able to offer varied stock can capitalise on these immediate opportunities – and looking at the rise in bids, may even have tempted some of the wait-and-sees into must-buy-now customers.”
Age and mileage metrics for the third quarter of 2024 and 2025 were steady, followed by notable drops in October when part-exchanges from new car purchases after the registration plate change started filtering into the used car market.
There has been more rise and fall throughout 2026. However, average profit margin suggests dealers have adapted well to market changes.
The retail margin rose slightly to £3,250 in August and bids increased while the average sold price climbed to £14,037.
Hybrid models took every spot on the top 10 models in August list.
The BMW X5 returned to the number one spot with a retail margin of £6,630.
Volvo took the next three spots with the XC90, XC60 and XC40, respectively. The XC60 continues to boast the EVPR margin record – £8,520 in March 2026.
Other models returning to the chart included the Ford Puma and the Mercedes-Benz A-Class.
The Lexus UX topped the CAP Clean chart in August.
Two EVs were also in the top 10: the Tesla Model Y and the Renault Zoe.
In the volume sold chart, Nissan Qashqai placed first for the fourth consecutive month. The Nissan LEAF, was the only EV in the chart.
