The Rise of Private Leasing: A Shift in Finland's Automotive Landscape
June 24, 2025, 6:59 pm
Location: Finland, Mainland Finland, Helsinki sub-region
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 1902
In the world of cars, change is the only constant. The Finnish automotive market is no exception. Private leasing is reshaping how consumers approach car ownership. It’s a trend that’s gaining momentum, like a snowball rolling down a hill. As of 2025, nearly one in ten new cars sold in Finland is financed through private leasing. This shift is not just about numbers; it reflects a deeper change in consumer behavior and environmental consciousness.
Car sales in Finland have been sluggish. The first months of 2025 saw an 8% drop in first-time car registrations compared to the previous year. Used car sales are also down, though a slight uptick appears when private sales are included. The economic climate is tough. Consumers are cautious, weighing their options carefully. They’re not just looking for any car; they want a vehicle that aligns with their values, particularly regarding emissions.
Private leasing is a game-changer. It lowers the barrier to entry for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. These low-emission cars now account for a significant portion of new registrations. In fact, 56% of all first-time registrations from January to May 2025 were electric or hybrid. This is a clear signal that Finnish consumers are embracing greener options. They want to drive cars that are not only safer but also kinder to the planet.
The statistics tell a compelling story. One in five low-emission cars purchased by consumers is financed through leasing. This is a remarkable increase. The appeal of leasing lies in its flexibility. It allows consumers to experience the latest technology without the long-term commitment of ownership. It’s like renting a luxury apartment instead of buying a house. You get to enjoy the benefits without the burdens.
Safety is another crucial factor. Newer cars are designed with advanced safety features. The statistics from Pohjola Insurance reveal a stark contrast. Between 2005 and 2010, nearly one in ten collisions at high speeds resulted in personal injuries. In contrast, only 5% of collisions involving cars manufactured after 2021 led to injuries. This is a testament to the improvements in automotive safety. Consumers are not just buying cars; they are investing in their safety.
The market leader in car financing, OP, has reported that private leasing has more than doubled in popularity this year. This trend is particularly pronounced among low-emission vehicles. The rise of electric cars is not just a fad; it’s a fundamental shift in how people view transportation. Modern consumers are looking for options that are carefree and predictable. Leasing fits this bill perfectly.
The transition from ownership to usage is significant. It reflects a broader societal change. People are increasingly valuing experiences over possessions. This shift is evident in various sectors, from travel to technology. Cars are no longer just a means of transportation; they are part of a lifestyle. Leasing allows consumers to adapt to this new reality.
Moreover, the corporate sector is also embracing electric vehicles. The share of fully electric cars among company vehicles has steadily increased. By 2023, electric cars had overtaken plug-in hybrids in popularity among businesses. Companies are recognizing the benefits of low-emission vehicles, both for their bottom line and their corporate image. It’s a win-win situation.
The financial aspect of leasing is also appealing. The recent signing of a EUR 70 million revolving credit facility by Oriola Corporation highlights the importance of liquidity in today’s market. This facility will help refinance existing debts and support general corporate purposes. It’s a strategic move that underscores the need for financial stability in a fluctuating economy.
As the automotive landscape evolves, so do the financial strategies that support it. Companies like Oriola are positioning themselves to navigate these changes effectively. They understand that a strong liquidity position is essential for growth and adaptability. In a world where consumer preferences are shifting rapidly, being agile is key.
In conclusion, the rise of private leasing in Finland is more than just a trend; it’s a reflection of changing consumer values and economic realities. As buyers become more environmentally conscious, the demand for low-emission vehicles will continue to grow. Leasing offers a practical solution, allowing consumers to embrace new technologies without the long-term commitment of ownership. The automotive industry is at a crossroads, and private leasing is steering it toward a greener, safer future. The road ahead is promising, but it requires careful navigation. The journey has just begun.
Car sales in Finland have been sluggish. The first months of 2025 saw an 8% drop in first-time car registrations compared to the previous year. Used car sales are also down, though a slight uptick appears when private sales are included. The economic climate is tough. Consumers are cautious, weighing their options carefully. They’re not just looking for any car; they want a vehicle that aligns with their values, particularly regarding emissions.
Private leasing is a game-changer. It lowers the barrier to entry for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. These low-emission cars now account for a significant portion of new registrations. In fact, 56% of all first-time registrations from January to May 2025 were electric or hybrid. This is a clear signal that Finnish consumers are embracing greener options. They want to drive cars that are not only safer but also kinder to the planet.
The statistics tell a compelling story. One in five low-emission cars purchased by consumers is financed through leasing. This is a remarkable increase. The appeal of leasing lies in its flexibility. It allows consumers to experience the latest technology without the long-term commitment of ownership. It’s like renting a luxury apartment instead of buying a house. You get to enjoy the benefits without the burdens.
Safety is another crucial factor. Newer cars are designed with advanced safety features. The statistics from Pohjola Insurance reveal a stark contrast. Between 2005 and 2010, nearly one in ten collisions at high speeds resulted in personal injuries. In contrast, only 5% of collisions involving cars manufactured after 2021 led to injuries. This is a testament to the improvements in automotive safety. Consumers are not just buying cars; they are investing in their safety.
The market leader in car financing, OP, has reported that private leasing has more than doubled in popularity this year. This trend is particularly pronounced among low-emission vehicles. The rise of electric cars is not just a fad; it’s a fundamental shift in how people view transportation. Modern consumers are looking for options that are carefree and predictable. Leasing fits this bill perfectly.
The transition from ownership to usage is significant. It reflects a broader societal change. People are increasingly valuing experiences over possessions. This shift is evident in various sectors, from travel to technology. Cars are no longer just a means of transportation; they are part of a lifestyle. Leasing allows consumers to adapt to this new reality.
Moreover, the corporate sector is also embracing electric vehicles. The share of fully electric cars among company vehicles has steadily increased. By 2023, electric cars had overtaken plug-in hybrids in popularity among businesses. Companies are recognizing the benefits of low-emission vehicles, both for their bottom line and their corporate image. It’s a win-win situation.
The financial aspect of leasing is also appealing. The recent signing of a EUR 70 million revolving credit facility by Oriola Corporation highlights the importance of liquidity in today’s market. This facility will help refinance existing debts and support general corporate purposes. It’s a strategic move that underscores the need for financial stability in a fluctuating economy.
As the automotive landscape evolves, so do the financial strategies that support it. Companies like Oriola are positioning themselves to navigate these changes effectively. They understand that a strong liquidity position is essential for growth and adaptability. In a world where consumer preferences are shifting rapidly, being agile is key.
In conclusion, the rise of private leasing in Finland is more than just a trend; it’s a reflection of changing consumer values and economic realities. As buyers become more environmentally conscious, the demand for low-emission vehicles will continue to grow. Leasing offers a practical solution, allowing consumers to embrace new technologies without the long-term commitment of ownership. The automotive industry is at a crossroads, and private leasing is steering it toward a greener, safer future. The road ahead is promising, but it requires careful navigation. The journey has just begun.