Private leasing of new cars almost triples in Finland in 5 years: OP

Private leasing of new cars increased significantly in Finland in the last five years, said OP Pohjola on Wednesday. In January–April this year, 8 of consumers' new cars were acquired through private leasing. In 2021, the figure was just 3. Almost 10 of new cars acquired through private leasing by consumers in Finland. People in Finland are particular about their finances and are increasingly looking for predictability also in terms of their driving. Many favour leasing because the exact monthly costs are known,” said Jari Jaulimo, Deputy CEO of OP Corporate Bank, adding that people don't have to worry about any surprise maintenance expenses. The biggest increase has been in electric cars purchased by consumers, with about one in every five financed through private leasing last year. More than 70 of cars acquired through private leasing were fully electric. Leasing is a low-risk option for many to try a new form of drive without having to worry about the value of the car being lost. Moreover, the fuel price increase caused by hostilities in the Middle East may further increase the attraction of electric vehicles, said Jaulimo.