Someone snags a RAV4 EV for just $32,600; we're jealous
Click above for a gallery of the $32,600 RAV4 EV
If you're the envious type, don't worry. The front wheel well of this RAV4 EV was dented anyway. That's gotta take, what, a few hundred bucks off the value?
Which RAV4 EV are we talking about? A 2003 model with under 100,000 miles on it that recently sold for for just $32,600 on West Auctions. That's quite low, compared to other RAV4 EVs that made it to eBay in the past (see here and here for two 2006 posts). We're not sure why the winning bid was so low (but we're looking at you, economy) or why the car was put up for sale in the first place (tipster Andrew said it was because of a bankruptcy situation), but someone certainly scored a good deal on this electric vehicle. Everyone we know with a RAV4 EV is happy as anything with their ride. Thanks to Andrew for the tip!
Gallery: $32,600 Toyota RAV4 EV
[Source: West Auctions]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Phil L. 9:12AM (1/09/2009)
I watched this auction (found it through http://www.evfinder.com), and was pleased to see a fair amount of interest in it.
Further thoughts on the price: Unlike private sales, an auction situation doesn't generally allow for extensive inspection of the vehicle, test drives, or talking to the owner/operator. This auction description makes it appear that the vehicle is in good condition, but the winning bidder is stuck with it if problems are discovered after the sale.
So the final sales price is a reflection of the risk the buyer is assuming.
Reply
Mike Z 10:28AM (1/09/2009)
Overall there is no sense in bidding up the price of an EV beyond the equivalent net present value of an equivalent gasoline car. After all, assuming that someone buys it, and the rest of the bidders continue to drive gasoline cars, the overall benefit is netted out.
Therefore, the only reason to pay a high price for a RAV4 EV is ecovanity.
Reply
yabun 12:56PM (1/09/2009)
I just hope whoever buys it drives it so as many people see them as possible. The best use of this to show people how possible EV's are.
Randy C. 11:23AM (1/09/2009)
The reason it went so low was that it was a local auction. This limited the number of bidders. If the car had been put up on e-Bay where the audience is nation wide, and possibly world wide, it would have gone for twice as much.
Reply
Richard in FLA 12:29PM (1/09/2009)
Such a wonderfully designed car. I wish Toyota would get off their mighty horse and build more of them. They would sell like hot cakes.
Reply
Max Dunn 10:08PM (1/10/2009)
Another factor to consider is that at 100,000 miles, the battery pack is probably either shot or will need replacing soon. So add another $15,000 for a battery pack and you have a total price of $47,000, about what other RAV4-EVs have been going for recently.
Reply
Garrett Longley 11:37PM (4/21/2009)
I have a 2003 Toyota Rav4 EV for sale. I have been putting ads on Craigslist in LA and SF. I haven't had much luck. This Car is in Tip top shape with only $39,000. My question is? Is Ebay my best bet to sell it, or are there other forums and classifieds that may help me get the price I want out of it. This Car is in Great Shape. But I need to sell it. Please let me know if there is a better place to list it. The car is currently in Southern Utah. thanks
Reply
sunshinemoonbeam 8:11PM (9/25/2009)
I cant believe the prices these prices these cars are going for. I have found a 1998 model with 72,000 miles that is only about $5,000 US. The batteries have not been charged since February so I am hesitant to buy it straight away as I dont know what the effect of it sitting around for so long will be on the batteries. Does any know?
Reply