The trend of Finns moving away from car ownership towards private leasing is gaining momentum, as indicated by new statistics. In the past year, 10.1% of cars registered for the first time were obtained through leasing, a substantial increase from only 5.7% in 2024 and just 2.5% in 2019. This almost 71% growth underscores a shift in consumer preferences, with many opting for leasing as a more flexible option rather than committing to ownership.

Key factors driving this shift include the increasing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs). As consumers show a growing preference for EVs, the challenge of their high costs looms large, making leasing an appealing alternative. Leasing allows consumers to avoid the financial burden of purchasing expensive electric models while transferring the risks associated with new technologies to the leasing companies. This has led experts like Jarmo Mäenpää from Dun & Bradstreet to highlight the advantages of leasing in the modern automotive market.

Moreover, the data reveals that nearly 90% of privately leased vehicles last year were plug-in hybrids or fully electric, reflecting a significant shift towards more sustainable choices among Finnish consumers. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the rise of private leasing may profoundly impact the market dynamics and consumer behavior, promoting a greener approach to mobility in Finland.