Electric vehicles come in all shapes and sizes, from tiny city cars to roomy crossover SUVs. But they also have one thing in common: They can be expensive to own, especially if you want the top-of-the-line model with the longest range and most features.
Fortunately, that’s changing. As the EV revolution continues to gain momentum, more and more models are hitting the market with affordable showroom prices that can be even lower when you factor in federal and state EV tax credits.
The 2024 Kia EV6 is arguably the most desirable entry into this new category of cheap electric vehicles, and it’s hard to argue with its combination of stylish looks, roomy interior, and neck-snapping performance. The EV6 is also fairly practical, with an estimated EPA-estimated driving range of 258 miles and plenty of options for buyers to personalize their car.
Other cheap electric vehicles Affordable electric cars worth considering include the 2023 Nissan Leaf S, which still boasts a solid estimated driving range and an array of advanced safety technology. Its only downside is its dated styling and sub-par fuel economy, but it’s still a viable option for drivers who can’t afford to spend much more than $35,000 on an EV.
More and more EV models are entering the middle-tier of the market, where they compete with mainstream models from established brands. This includes the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric, which offers a great deal of value for the money, although its reliance on an ICE-based platform limits interior space. The 2020 Honda Prologue, a more car-like alternative that’s slated to arrive before the end of 2024, is another upcoming midsize EV to consider.
In the current, low-end EV market, you’ll find the second generation Leaf, which remains affordable to own but is beginning to lag behind its rivals when it comes to driving range and charging speed. Other potential competitors include the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4, which isn’t as sporty as some other crossovers in this category but offers a lot of bang for the buck, and the more expensive Audi Q4 e-tron, Mercedes EQB, and Tesla Model Y, which offer similar value but are more luxurious and well-equipped.
Other affordable EVs include the 2024 Dacia Spring, which will be available in the UK before the end of this year and starts at a very reasonable PS14,995. Citroen’s upcoming e-C3 is expected to launch with a price tag under PS23,000, too. As the market for EVs continues to grow, more and more manufacturers are lowering their showroom prices to make them as accessible as possible for drivers on all budgets. The next three years will see an entirely new level of affordability for electric cars that’s sure to be a boon for consumers.