Used Cars from the U.S. and the Rise of Electric Vehicles: How Ukrainians’ Automotive Preferences Are Changing in 2025
The Ukrainian used car market is steadily evolving. Every month, thousands of “Americans” cars previously owned in the United States appear on Ukrainian roads. At the heart of this trend is the rapid growth of electric vehicles, which in 2025 have become the most frequently imported category from the U.S. This shift reflects more than just a change in technology it marks a deeper transformation in automotive culture.
According to data from Ukravtoprom and the All-Ukrainian Association of Car Importers and Dealers, the average age of used cars imported from the U.S. is 5.5 years. This shows that Ukrainians are increasingly choosing newer used vehicles, prioritizing modern technology and reliability alongside price.
Breakdown of vehicle types imported from the U.S.:
- Electric vehicles 43%
- Petrol-powered vehicles 41%
- Hybrids 8%
- Diesel and gas-powered 4% each
This means that nearly every second car arriving from the U.S. is partially or fully electric.
Top Imported Used Models from the U.S.
The five most popular models in July 2025:
- Tesla Model Y – 711 units
- Tesla Model 3 – 555 units
- Ford Escape – 347 units
- Nissan Rogue – 260 units
- BMW X5 – 227 units
These numbers show that Tesla has firmly taken the lead among electric vehicles in Ukraine, both in popularity and consumer trust.
Why Imports Are Rising: A Tax Window That’s Closing
One of the key factors behind the spike in electric vehicle imports in 2025 is temporary tax exemptions. Currently, EVs imported into Ukraine are exempt from:
- 20% VAT
- 10% import duty
But starting January 1, 2026, these benefits will expire. According to Oleh Nazarenko, director general of the Ukrainian Association of Car Importers and Dealers:
“We expect a sharp increase in electric vehicle imports in the remaining months of the year, because prices will rise by at least a third next year.”
Importers are now racing to bring in additional stock before the deadline. In early 2026, the import of EVs may sharply decrease or nearly halt, as a 30-35% price hike could undermine the value proposition of EVs priced under $25,000.
Prices That Drive the Decision
Price remains a key consideration for buyers. A comparison between new and used models shows a clear gap:
- Volkswagen Golf: new from ₴1.29 million (~$31,000), used $8,000 to $20,000
- Audi Q5: new from ₴2.54 million (~$61,000), 2017 used model ~$20,000, 2023 used model ~$42,800
- Volkswagen Tiguan: new from ~$43,000, 2018 model ~$27,000, older ones $15,000–$25,000
Used imports offer not only affordability but a smart choice in a challenging economic climate.
ICE Vehicles Still Hold On, But Slowly Declining
Despite the growth of EV imports, internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles remain a familiar and reliable option. In July 2025:
- 2,300 new petrol-powered vehicles were registered in Ukraine, with market share falling from 38% in July 2024 to 35%
- 48% of imported used cars had petrol engines over 10,800 units
The most popular models include Volkswagen Golf, Audi Q5, Tiguan, Nissan Rogue, and Audi A4 proven names with a strong presence in the American market.
More EVs Every Year
This is not a passing trend. The share of electric vehicles among used car imports from the U.S. has surpassed 40% in 2025 for the first time. In parallel, the charging infrastructure in Ukraine is expanding, with more stations appearing at gas stations and urban locations.
For Ukrainian drivers, switching to electric is no longer hypothetical it’s becoming the new normal.
The Ukrainian used car market is experiencing a clear shift toward electrification. Tesla leads the charge, demand continues to grow, infrastructure is catching up, and more drivers are opting for the silence and speed of an electric ride. The tax exemption may end soon but the trend is here to stay: electric vehicles are no longer the future of Ukrainian roads they’re the present.
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