Used market plugs the less affluent into Tesla ownership

Like most cutting-edge technology, electric cars tend to lose their value fast.

As new models debut with better battery range and more features, older electric vehicles fetch weak resale prices or languish on dealer lots.

But the Tesla Motors Model S appears to be bucking that trend.

An analysis of used Model S sales finds that while not many have hit the market so far — just 1,600 — they typically command prices well above $50,000. At the same time, they’re attracting buyers who are a little younger, a little less affluent and less likely to live in California than the typical Tesla driver.