The first company to produce electric vehicles was the American company Tesla Motors. Following it, other world carmakers began to produce cars that use electric energy as fuel. Today, a huge number of drivers are thinking about switching from conventional cars with internal combustion engines to environmentally friendly and economical electric vehicles. Every year the range of such units is growing, which greatly complicates the choice of the buyer.
While today electric vehicles are produced by almost all major car manufacturers, several carmakers have gained the greatest popularity. Below are the 10 most popular electric cars in the modern electric car market.
1. Tesla Model S
Tesla Model S confidently breaks all conceivable and inconceivable records: the power reserve is more than 500 km without refueling, speed is up to 250 km/h, and acceleration time to hundreds is less than 3 seconds. The car is equipped with speed control systems, stability control system, and audible warnings when the seat belt is not fastened. Modern interior equipment makes the car not only incredibly attractive in appearance, but also provides a comfortable and pleasant driving experience.
The main drawback of the leader electric vehicles rate is the incredibly high cost that starts at $91,190 and the servicing cost of the car. However, everyone can afford this electric car by considering the Tesla lease deal.
2. Tesla Model 3
This electric car can be safely called the most affordable in the Tesla lineup. Its cost ranges from $35,000 to $45,000. Tesla Model 3 is all about advantages: stylish design, powerful engine, good range, simplicity, and ease of control. At the same time, the small luggage compartment and the inability to regularly recharge the batteries at specialized gas stations make this car not quite “ideal”.
3. Tesla Model X
This model easily competes with the fastest gasoline and diesel crossovers. No less surprising is the good range – more than 450 km without recharging the batteries. However, the crossover is unlikely to be suitable for off-road travel. The small ground clearance makes this car more suitable for city roads rather than off-roads. The cabin capacity can be increased from 5 to 7 seats. And, of course, one cannot fail to mention the stylish design of this model.
Among the disadvantages are high cost, lack of charging stations, small trunk volume for a crossover, and relatively short battery life.
4. Nissan Leaf
Nissan Leaf is the first truly mass-produced electric vehicle. The first models appeared on the market back in 2010. A year later, the Nissan LEAF became the winner of the European Car of the Year competition (the first electric car to receive such an award).
The characteristics of the “prize-winner” are rather modest – 107 hp. and only 170 km of run on a single charge. A nice bonus – 80% of the battery capacity on a special Nissan charger is replenished in just 30 minutes. Nissan Leaf costs between $25,000 – $30,000. The second-generation Nissan Leaf will have a range of 322 km as the standard and updated design.
5. Chevrolet Bolt EV
Chevrolet Bolt EV can cover about 380 km on a single charge. But, with competent “economical” driving, this figure can be increased by another 100 km. At least one of the first owners of an electric car managed to achieve a similar result. Car enthusiast Glen Williams posted a corresponding video on Youtube (in three parts) as evidence. The most interesting thing is that the battery capacity is only 60 kWh, which is less than some competitors have. Moreover, fast charging allows you to “fill” the battery by 80% in just half an hour.
In the US, you should be ready to pay about $37,500 for the basic configuration, that is, about the same as for the Tesla 3. This subcompact electric hatchback is also subject to a state program – $ 7.5 thousand per consumer will be paid by the state, thus encouraging the purchase of environmentally friendly transport.
6. Hyundai IONIQ Electric
The Hyundai IONIQ Electric electric car provides comfort and safety, leaving a pleasant impression of speed and maneuverability. Among the advantages are a spacious interior, instant acceleration, and easy handling. There are 3 modes that include Eco, Normal, and Sport, which are switched at the push of a button on the panel. There are no obvious drawbacks. An excellent combination of power and economy.
The car is started with a wear-resistant 136 hp electric motor. One charge can cover 273 km (according to EPA). It is charged from an outlet within 14 hours. The station takes 54 minutes to charge the battery up to 80%. The price of the basic version starts at $35,000.
7. Audi e-Tron
The comfort and reliability of an electric vehicle with a crossover body are distinctive characteristics of the Audi brand – complemented by economical energy consumption. Among the advantages of the Audi e-Tron are the Regen brake system, stylish design, 807l trunk, and seats with maximum adjustment. Euro NCAP tests have confirmed the high safety of the car.
Not a disadvantage, but a less flawless indicator of the model, can be called the driver’s chest protection system from side impacts, as well as a large weight. Audi e-Tron is equipped with a pair of 360 hp asynchronous motors. The car needs 6 seconds to accelerate to 100 km/h. One charge is enough for 400 km of run in WLTP mode. The battery charges in 8.5 hours. The price for Audi e-Tron starts at $65,900.
8. BMW iX3
The electric crossover of the Bavarian brand is a restyling of the previous model of the X3 series with improved aerodynamic parameters of the exterior and the ability to easily overcome moderate off-road conditions. Among the advantages of BMV iX3 are a choice of interior trim in different trim levels, a multifunctional steering wheel, and a capacious battery, the charge of which is enough to drive 460 km on a WLTP cycle.
In the BMW iX3, you don’t have to rely on a roomy trunk, as the electric motor is located under the rear sofa. The 5th generation motor generates 286 hp. and accelerates the car from the start to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds and develops a maximum speed of up to 180 km/h. The BMW iX3 price starts at $114,900.
9. Hyundai Kona Electric
This crossover features high interior functionality, quiet running, and excellent dynamics. Despite the limited interior space, the cabin designed for 4 people is comfortable. Not a disadvantage, but a feature is the compactness of the model, which also affects the trunk. The control requires holding down the buttons, which protects against accidental selection, but can be inconvenient.
This car is equipped with a 204 hp engine. Accelerates in 7.6 seconds. up to 100 km/h. At top speed (167 km/h) it consumes a lot of energy. The average energy consumption is 15.4 kWh per 100 kilometers. You can buy a good package for $ 40,000.
10. Mercedes EQC
This electric crossover features a sloping massive rear end and an elongated hood. It is a comfortable electric car with innovative solutions. It is worth mentioning the advantages in the form of a beautiful recognizable exterior. The salon is ergonomic. The seat control panels are located on the doors. The wide loading opening of the trunk makes it possible to place large items in it. A disadvantage is a glare on the monitors on the front control panel.
Mercedes EQC is equipped with two electric motors (back and front). The front one provides a high travel speed. The rear one is responsible for the dynamics from the start. Total power 408 HP allows you to accelerate to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds. The maximum permitted speed is 180 km/h. Cruising range of 450 km. The price for this car starts at $67,900.