Tesla’s models are losing nearly half (45%) of their value witin three years, according to data from the Carmoola Car Depreciation Index.
The electric car pioneer has risen from eighth to fourth place among the worst-performing manufacturers for value retention since the last Carmoola Depreciation Index, released in December.
While most other brands have shown relatively stable depreciation rates, Tesla has experienced a sharp decline, losing an average of 45% of its value in the first three years.
Only DS (53%), Polestar (49.6%) and Mitsubishi (45.7%) performed worse in the latest findings.
Previous research by Carmoola explored British drivers’ perception of Tesla, revealing that 70% were put off ever wanting to own a Tesla because of Elon Musk.
Among existing Tesla owners, 73% reported feeling ashamed to be seen in their cars, while 45% were actively looking to sell their vehicles.
Whereas 22% of those choosing to keep their cars said they would not buy another Tesla in the future.
The last Carmoola Car Depreciation Index, released in December 2024, revealed that electric vehicles (EVs) were the worst-performing for value retention.
The Renault Zoe and Nissan Leaf saw the steepest losses, with the Zoe depreciating by 67.4% and the Leaf by 64.6% over three years.
Despite their growing popularity, many EVs have continued to struggle with value retention – a trend seen again in 2025, with Tesla now joining several electric-focused brands among the five fastest-depreciating manufacturers.
In contrast, Porsche was discovered as the best-performing make for value retention, retaining 75.9% of their value after three years.
Aidan Rushby, founder and chief executive of Carmoola, said: “Tesla has been a trailblazer in the electric vehicle market, but our latest data shows that even the most iconic brands can face significant challenges with value retention.
“Depreciation can be influenced by a complex mix of factors, but it’s clear that consumer perceptions can play a powerful role.
“And it appears that the sentiments of the British public could be contributing to Tesla cars’ rapid loss of resale value.”
Fastest-depreciating car brands in the UK (2025 to date)
Make | Average Depreciation Percentage Over Three Years (36,000 Miles) |
---|---|
DS | 53% |
Polestar | 49.60% |
Mitsubishi | 45.70% |
Tesla | 45% |
Jeep | 44.90% |
Fiat | 43.60% |
Jaguar | 43.30% |
Vauxhall | 42.40% |
Peugeot | 41.60% |
Citroen | 41.20% |
Source: Carmoola & Brego |