Chevy Volt could retain value better than Prius
Volt should have long term value
Although thanks to tax credits
After 3 years the Chevy Volt is expected to retain 51 percent of its residual value according to Kelly Blue Book, although that’s after the $7500 Federal Tax credit is factored into the equation. If not for the tax credit, however, the Volt would retain 42 percent of its value.
A Toyota Prius, on the hand, retains 46 percent of its value after 36 months, whereas a Ford Focus retains 37.5 percent of its value.
Of course, purchase price still needs to be factored into the equation. Since the Volt costs more, it will still see a bigger overall decline in value despite its better residual value after the tax credit. Nevertheless, these numbers should give Volt buyers some peace of mind regarding their purchase.
Source: MotorTrend
Dach – do you know how the life of the battery factors into it’s residual value.
Does the value of a Volt that has exceeded it’s theoretical life – plummet?
Kelly Blue Book is estimating that at the end of the lease period (3 years) the estimated value of the Volt will be $17,000.
This makes the lease option very appealing. Lease the Volt for 3 years at $350/month, then make a decision at the end of the lease. If no emerging technologies are available after 3 years buy the Volt for $17K at the end of the lease period.