Vehicles with certified battery health scores are fetching higher prices, attracting more bidders, and reversing the downward price trend seen across internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles – according to the latest Pickles Quarterly Automotive Report (QAR Issue 7).

Following the national launch in July of Pickles’ Battery State of Health (SoH) certification program, the auction leader is reporting a 15-plus per cent increase in bidder numbers, 10-plus per cent more bids per vehicle, and an average price uplift of six per cent for EVs sold with battery health certificates compared to industry benchmarks.

“Battery health is one of the top drivers influencing used EV value,” general manager – automotive solutions at Pickles, Brendon Green, said.

“With SoH certification, buyers know exactly what they’re getting – and that transparency is driving stronger results for sellers.”

The battery certification, now rolled out across Pickles’ national EV auction network, uses a number of diagnostic tests to determine the battery’s current condition compared to its brand-new equivalent. Buyers receive a full report and official certificate detailing the battery’s remaining capacity, charging performance, and real-world range retention.

The broader market impact is already being felt. According to the Datium Used Car Index, EV values increased to 108 per cent in Q1 FY26, up from 106 per cent in June. Over the same period, ICE vehicles fell from 125 per cent to 121 per cent, indicating that EVs – once considered a riskier used asset – are now holding firm against market softening.

“Battery scorecards don’t just help buyers feel more confident,” Green said.

“They are unlocking tangible commercial benefits across the board – lifting values, accelerating time to sale, and expanding the buyer base.”

The move comes as Australia accelerates its shift to electrification, with second-hand EVs expected to surge in volume from novated lease expiries, corporate and government fleets transition, and private resales. With a growing supply of used EVs entering the market, tools that de-risk the purchase are becoming essential.

Other Key Insights from QAR Issue 7

• Quarterly Update: Used EV prices have been stable for 15 months, and dealer participation in used EVs has lifted to 45 per cent (from 40 per cent in June) following the launch of Battery SoH certificates.
• Novated Lease Boom Expands to Used Market: EVs represent 30-40 per cent of all novated lease settlements in Australia. With leases signed post-FBT exemption maturing from mid-2025, Pickles forecasts up to 15,000 ex-lease EVs entering the used market annually by late 2026.
• Salvage Demand Holds Strong: Q3 FY25 set new highs for sales volumes, buyer interest and price recovery; ICE recorded a price uplift vs. Q3 FY2024 (supported by strong parts demand across commercial models), and EV salvage volumes jumped 95 per cent YoY (~300 vehicles in the quarter).
• Electric Motorcycle Case Study: Pickles facilitated the successful multi-channel sale of more than 400 electric motorcycles. The case study showcases how tailored digital marketing and platform diversification helped clear a large volume of stock within five days.

Click here for a copy of the report

https://www.pickles.com.au/qar/q3-2025-report