Used electric car sales climb in Satakunta despite slower uptake

Electric and hybrid cars make up just over 9% of the vehicle fleet in Satakunta, compared with 13.5% across Finland, Yle reports. In neighbouring Varsinais-Suomi, the share is 14.5%, according to figures from Finland’s Transport and Communications Agency.

One possible reason for the slower shift is the region’s geography. Satakunta is a large region, and electric cars are more common in cities and built-up areas than in the countryside, said Pyry Kylävainio, sales manager at the Rinta-Jouppi dealership in Pori. Drivers living farther from urban centres may have fewer charging options, he said.

Even so, sales of used electric cars in Satakunta have risen by nearly 27% this year. Dealerships in the region have sold more than 9,000 used cars, Kylävainio said. More than 4,000 had petrol engines and just over 2,000 were diesel-powered.

High fuel prices are increasing interest in electric cars, Kylävainio said. More affordable used electric cars are selling quickly, keeping their prices steady.

A shortage of charging points in housing companies may also be slowing electric-car purchases, said Jenna Tamminen of property management company Retta. Demand for charging facilities is much higher than the number that can be installed.

Installing chargers is often easier in newer apartment buildings, where the electrical systems are more likely to support them. In buildings more than 10 years old, the work is often more difficult and expensive. Where the electrical system allows it, an apartment shareholder can arrange and pay for the alterations, charging equipment and its maintenance.

Tamminen said electric and hybrid cars must not be charged from engine-heater outlets because of the fire risk. Housing companies prohibit the practice, and insurers will not cover damage caused by charging this way. Despite the bans, some owners continue to use the outlets, she said.