Summary
- Bought BMW i3 in 2023 for $10,500 with 135,000 miles
- Battery was replaced by BMW for free due to CARB warranty
- Now has a brand new battery and AC compressor
- Challenges selling due to complexity of selling electric cars
- Buyer needs to appreciate value of new battery and compressor, understand tax rebates and warranties in CARB states to be interested
Article
The author of the content is selling a cheap electric car, specifically a BMW i3, that has been well maintained and upgraded with new components such as a high voltage battery and AC compressor. Despite the upgrades, the author is struggling to find a buyer due to several unique challenges associated with selling an electric vehicle. One major issue is the lack of understanding among buyers regarding the value of a new battery and compressor in an electric car. While these components add significant value to the vehicle, potential buyers are more focused on the mileage of the car, which can make it difficult to convince them of the car’s worth.
Another challenge the author faces is the limitations of the used EV tax credit, which can significantly impact the resale value of the car. The eligibility criteria for the tax credit make it difficult for the author to offer the rebate to potential buyers, making it harder to compete with other similarly priced electric vehicles on the market. Additionally, buyers in CARB states may not see the upgrade of the AC compressor as a significant selling point, as their cars are covered by a longer warranty for this component.
Despite these challenges, the author believes that the BMW i3 is a great deal for a very specific type of customer. The ideal buyer would not be eligible for the used EV tax credit, live outside of a CARB state, and be in need of a reliable electric car with a new high-voltage battery and compressor. Finding such a specific customer can be challenging, given the prevalence of other electric vehicle options on the market and the general lack of understanding about the value of new components in an electric car.
In conclusion, the author reflects on the unique challenges of selling an electric car compared to traditional ICE cars. The presence of factors such as the used EV tax credit, CARB warranty, and public misconceptions about electric vehicles make selling an electric car a complex process. Despite the difficulties, the author remains hopeful that the right buyer will appreciate the value of the upgraded components and see the BMW i3 as a great deal. whether that means being patient or ultimately deciding to keep the car for themselves.
Read the full article here
