Buying electric cars from abroad: how demand has grown and where the cars are sourced from

More and more Ukrainians are switching to electric transport, considering the purchase of electric cars from abroad as a way to save money and get modern technology. Find out which models are chosen most often and from which countries Ukrainians prefer to order such cars

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The Ukrainian electric transport market continues to develop rapidly. More and more drivers are considering electric cars not only as an environmentally friendly solution, but also as a profitable alternative to petrol and diesel cars. With reference to Ukravtoprom, we report on how demand for these cars has changed in Ukraine over the year.

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How much have electric car imports grown?

In the first eight months of the year, 61,700 electric passenger cars were imported into Ukraine. This is 52% more than in the same period last year. The customs value of all imported cars reached approximately $1.27 billion.

Most of the imports were used electric cars — almost 47,600. Their imports increased by 62%. About 14,100 new electric cars were imported during this period, which also shows an increase of about 26%. Ukrainians continue to prefer used cars because they are cheaper, while remaining technologically advanced and economical.

Approximately $363.5 million was spent on new electric cars, and approximately $906.3 million on used ones, reflecting sustained consumer interest in the more affordable segment.

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Which countries are the most common sources of electric car imports?

The geography of imports depends on whether the cars are new or used. China is the undisputed leader in the new electric car market, accounting for about 92% of imports. Japan and Germany follow far behind. Chinese brands are strengthening their positions by offering a wide range of models, long range and competitive prices. Among the most notable are BYD, Zeekr, Geely, Leapmotor and Dongfeng.

Used electric cars most often come from the United States. South Korea is in second place, supplying the popular Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5. Germany ranks third in terms of deliveries, offering Ukrainians cars in good condition with a history of quality service.

Which electric cars are popular in Ukraine

Popular models vary by region. The BYD Song Plus is the clear leader among new cars on the Kyiv market, while the Tesla Model Y is often chosen among used cars. In the Lviv region, there is high demand for the Tesla Model 3 in the used car segment, while in the Odesa region, the Nissan Leaf remains one of the most affordable options for switching to electric power. In the Dnipropetrovsk region, the Volkswagen ID.Unyx stands out among new cars — a model that is gaining popularity thanks to its combination of design and technology.

Reminder! The seven-year period of tax breaks for electric vehicles in Ukraine is coming to an end — from 2026, their import will again be subject to VAT and customs duties. This decision has sparked heated debate between supporters of green transport and defenders of budget revenues. Experts predict a temporary increase in prices and a decline in imports, but they are confident that the electric car market will not roll back. Find out how prices, demand and customs clearance conditions will change after the end of the incentives.

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