As the electric vehicle (EV) market evolves, U.S. dealers may find new opportunities in the growing supply of off-lease EVs, while Chinese automakers continue to push the limits of ultra-fast charging technology.
According to Automotive News, a surge of EVs coming off lease is expected to flood the U.S. used-vehicle market this year. The trend is driven by expired federal tax credits, which previously made EV leases more affordable.
Leasing volumes surged before the September 2025 cutoff, and now, two- to three-year lease terms are ending. Experian reports that EVs will comprise nearly 15% of off-lease vehicles by the end of this year, up from 7.7% in the first quarter.
Analysts predict the volume of off-lease EVs will peak in 2028, with nearly 800,000 vehicles entering the market. Many of the leases expiring this year and in 2027 are “underwater,” meaning the payoff amount is significantly below market value. Stephens analyst Jeff Lick noted in a March 12 investor note that these vehicles are likely to hit the market at steep discounts, potentially making them some of the most affordable cars available.
While U.S. EV sales struggled last year due to weaker demand and the expiration of the $7,500 federal tax credit, one positive development is the rapid expansion of the country’s fast-charging infrastructure. The Wall Street Journal reports that public fast-charging sites — which can recharge EVs faster than home chargers — grew by approximately 87% between January and November 2025, according to EV analytics firm Paren. Sites are also adding more plugs and increasing power output to reduce charging times. Industry experts say widespread, reliable fast charging is crucial for consumer adoption of EVs.
However, the U.S. still trails China, where new EV models can recharge in roughly the same time it takes to fill a gas tank. In contrast, U.S. fast-charging sessions often take 20 to 40 minutes or longer, depending on the vehicle. Chinese automakers are now rolling out systems capable of charging cars in just a few minutes, highlighting the potential for rapid technological leaps in the global EV market.
