Tesla and Xiaomi Lead in Resale Value of Electric Vehicles in China

Image: Illustrative image · The Eloquent Peasant · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source

China's CPCA and Jingzhengu rank Xiaomi YU7 highest in one-year EV resale value, with Tesla models leading after three years.

The China Passenger Car Association (CPCA), in collaboration with the used-car valuation platform Jingzhengu, has published a ranking of the most liquid electric vehicles (EVs) on the Chinese market as of September 2026. The rankings evaluate the residual value of EVs one and three years after purchase, offering insight into which models retain their value best in the local market.

Among EVs held for one year, Xiaomi's crossover model YU7 topped the list by retaining 82.5% of its original purchase price. This strong performance highlights Xiaomi's competitive position in the Chinese EV market. Close behind was Li Auto's compact minivan Li Mega, which maintained 78.1% of its value, followed by Nio's large SUV ES8 with a 77.5% residual value.

When assessing vehicles owned for three years, Tesla models dominated the top positions. The Model 3 led with a residual value of 61.4%, showcasing its durability and sustained demand. Tesla's Model X and Model Y followed, preserving 59.5% and 53.9% of their initial prices respectively. This suggests Tesla's vehicles maintain strong market desirability even after extended use, potentially benefiting resale owners.

The report underscores the differing depreciation patterns among Chinese EV manufacturers and Tesla in the country's competitive electric vehicle sector. Xiaomi's standout retention after one year may reflect recent rapid advancements and consumer confidence, while Tesla's dominance in the three-year category aligns with its global reputation for brand strength and performance.

These insights from CPCA and Jingzhengu may guide consumers, dealers, and investors in evaluating the long-term value and liquidity of EVs in China. Residual value is a key consideration for buyers considering total cost of ownership, trade-in options, or resale prospects in a rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.