Audi Really Doesn't Want Leased EVs BackAutoGuide.comAlbert GarciaThu, September 10, 2026 at 4:51 PM UTCAdd us on Googleaudi really doesn t want leased evs backAudi is taking aggressive steps to keep returned electric vehicles off dealer lots.According to a dealer bulletin distributed on September 1, 2026, the automaker has introduced a nationwide "BEV Lessee Buyout Option Incentive" program that cuts thousands off the contractual buyout price for customers currently leasing an all-electric model.Running through September 30, 2026, the promotion targets current lessees who execute a buyout at the end of their contract rather than returning the vehicle or terminating early.audi really doesn t want leased evs backAudi Buyout Incentives by ModelThe savings vary across Audi's EV lineup, with high-end, fast-depreciating models seeing the steepest price reductions:AdvertisementAdvertisementAudi e-tron GT: Receives the largest discount at $10,000 off the contractual buyout price.Audi Q4 e-tron: Qualifies for a $5,000 buyout discount. Audi originally launched the program in July with a $3,000 incentive on its high-volume compact crossover before bumping the figure to $5,000 in September.Audi Q8 e-tron: Eligible for a $4,000 buyout price reduction.To encourage store participation, Audi is paying dealerships a $500 "Dealer Facilitation Incentive" for every completed lease buyout under the program, in addition to standard paperwork fees.The national incentive push reflects broader market pressures across the used electric vehicle sector. As used EV values fluctuate, vehicles returning at the end of a lease term often land on dealer lots with actual market values significantly lower than the residual values projected when contracts were signed several years ago.By subsidizing the buyout price directly for existing drivers, Audi aims to keep inventory off wholesale auctions and avoid absorbing sharp wholesale loss adjustments on returned units.Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletterhere.