Independence from manufacturers is emerging as a critical factor in building trust and driving sales in the used EV market, according to new research from battery diagnostics expert AVILOO.
Its international B2B survey across European automotive businesses found that dealer confidence, customer trust and transaction speed are all strengthened when battery assessments are carried out independently rather than by manufacturers.
The study, conducted among several hundred automotive businesses including dealers, fleet operators and testing organisations, indicates that independent, standardised battery information is becoming a baseline requirement rather than a value add in the used EV market.
Independence builds credibility
The study found 93.4% of respondents believe an independent battery certificate increases credibility in the sales process, while 88.8% highlighted the importance of manufacturer-independent results.
That shift reflects growing concern around potential conflicts of interest, particularly in the assessment of high voltage batteries where condition has a direct impact on vehicle value and buyer confidence.
Demand is also being driven by consumers with 84.4% of respondents reporting that customers are actively asking for independent battery certification when considering used EV purchases.
Transparency accelerates sales
Transparency remains the strongest driver overall, with 92.9% of respondents citing improved buyer trust as the main reason for using independent battery certificates.
Dealers reported tangible commercial benefits, including 46.2% achieving higher sales prices and 44.0% seeing reduced vehicle standing times.
The findings suggest that clear, objective battery data helps remove uncertainty for both buyers and retailers, particularly for higher mileage vehicles or those approaching the end of manufacturer warranties.
In addition, 74.7% of businesses said they use independent battery testing before acquiring stock to reduce the risk of complaints and returns.
Overall satisfaction with independent battery certificates is high, with 94.4% of respondents reporting positive experiences and 92.4% saying they would recommend their use.
Marcus Berger, chief executive at AVILOO, said: “With our AVILOO Flash Test, we are the only provider on the market offering a manufacturer independent battery quick test.
“We differ from all other quick tests, which merely read out the BMS, by using precise calculation methods that truly guarantee independence and transparency – benefiting all market participants. We are therefore very pleased that these advantages are clearly recognised by our customers.”
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