Pickles launches battery health scores to boost EV buyer confidence

Pickles has released its Quarterly Automotive Report – Issue 6, revealing that confidence in the used vehicle market continues to climb as the company publicly publishes Battery State of Health (SoH) scores for pre-loved EVs.

Launching in Sydney and Melbourne, the initiative is designed to eliminate one of the biggest pain points for second-hand EV buyers: uncertainty around battery condition. 

Detailed battery certificates are now available for all tested EVs sold at auction, with national rollout to follow.

“Battery health is very important in an EV,” says Pickles automotive solutions general manager Brendon Green. 

“Until now, buyers have been bidding in the dark. This move replaces uncertainty with confidence – and positions Pickles as a leader in EV transparency.”

Each certificate includes two SoH scores – one from the manufacturer, and one froman independent source – along with detailed battery data. This allows buyers to see beyond any OEM ‘buffering’ and make more informed decisions. More than 650 EVs have already been tested, with an average SoH of 96%.

The move mirrors international trends. In Europe, the introduction of battery scoring triggered a major market shift – with more than 1000 dealers entering the used EV space after the system was introduced.

EV Sales Surge as trust grows

The Q2 2025 report confirms growing appetite for used EVs, with volumes tripling year-on-year and May marking a record-breaking month – with EV sales 55% above the previous peak. Prices remained strong, averaging $37,500.

“This is the clearest sign yet that the used EV market is moving beyond early adopters,” says Green. “We’re seeing serious engagement from trade buyers, underpinned by better data, broader stock, and rising buyer confidence.”

Used market shows signs of softening – But EV prices remain stable

The broader used vehicle market softened in June, following a steady start to the quarter. Despite the slowdown, internal combustion engine (ICE) prices remained stable, and electric vehicle pricing held firm – underscoring continued buyer interest and confidence in key segments.

• ICE prices remained steady, holding firm despite broader market headwinds.

• EV prices were stable quarter-on-quarter, supported by consistent demand and increased dealer engagement.

• Volumes were steady overall, with sustained buyer activity across major asset categories.

• Private buyers are growing fast, driven by value, variety, and trust. A Pickles survey found value for money was the top motivator, with brand reputation and ease of use also scoring strongly.

• Salvage EV sales rose more than 200% nationally year-on-year, with Queensland leading the charge in battery repurposing and interstate relocation driven by government battery investment.

• Luxury Car Tax reforms could reshape fleet planning: Pickles modelling shows that phasing out the LCT could accelerate EV adoption and improve whole-of-life cost modelling, but sudden removal risks asset value disruption.

Pickles’ Quarterly Automotive Report – Issue 6 is available now at Pickles.com.au, providing national data, buyer insights, and expert analysis.