Tesla Model S, Y, 3 Values Drop Sharply in US Used Market

Tesla has faced a challenging year with declining sales in Europe and China, tariff impacts, and reputational issues involving CEO Elon Musk's political controversies, yet its stock has risen approximately 75%, largely fueled by anticipation of the upcoming Tesla Robotaxi service. The first driverless Tesla Model Y Robotaxi was spotted in Austin, Texas, with a limited launch planned, though competitors like Waymo currently hold a significant lead in the robotaxi market. President Trump's tariff policies on vehicles and parts have notably benefited Tesla and Rivian, as both companies manufacture all their vehicles domestically, insulating them from increased costs that have impacted other automakers including Ford and GM. Despite these positives, Tesla vehicles have experienced significant depreciation in the used car market over the past year, with the Model S, Model Y, Model 3, and Model X among the top depreciating models, leading analysts to suggest that electric vehicles and the Tesla brand may negatively affect resale values. Meanwhile, individual Tesla owners report relatively low maintenance costs over extended ownership periods, with electric charging and tire replacements as key expenses, highlighting some cost advantages of Tesla ownership compared to traditional gas vehicles. These factors illustrate Tesla's complex position amid evolving market conditions, regulatory impacts, and consumer perceptions in 2025.