For those who prioritize sustainable, environment-friendly solutions, an electric vehicle (EV) is a worthwhile alternative to regular automobiles. Although EVs are often more expensive than gas-powered ones, today, one can get an electric car without breaking the bank. This is because EV makers are trying to cater to as many eco-conscious buyers as possible. So, whether one is looking for a compact electric car or an SUV, they can find affordable options in the market.
1. Nissan Leaf
Priced at $29,280, the Nissan Leaf is a four-door compact hatchback. When it made its debut in 2011, it was one of the first affordable EVs. It continues to be priced reasonably. Nissan has made a few tweaks here and there to the car design, increasing its range and safety. The cheapest electric car in the Leaf lineup is the standard-range trim called S. It comes with a modest 40 kWh battery that produces 147 hp and a range of 149 miles. The interior has a few frills, but many essentials are standard. The car also has an 8-inch touchscreen that allows seamless navigation. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay come standard. The second trim in the lineup is the Leaf SV Plus, which has a 60 kWh battery and a 214-hp motor. This trim offers a range of 212 miles. That said, it costs nearly $37,000. Those who want a larger battery can opt for Leaf Plus, another EV in Nissan’s lineup.
2. Mini Cooper SE Hardtop
This is another affordable hatchback, selling at a starting price of $31,895. Mini Cooper SE Hardtop is also a compact vehicle with a four-seat, double-door configuration. It can cover 114 miles on a single charge. While this may seem like a limited range, the hatchback’s 32.6 kWh battery can be charged in just four hours with 7.4 kilowatts of AC capability or a Level 2 home charger. Additionally, the given range is enough for tackling city rides and daily commutes.
While this car is known for its fun, distinctive design, in terms of performance, it can easily get to a speed of 60 mph in 6.9 seconds, thanks to its 181-hp electric motor. The SE is the only electric variant in the Mini Cooper lineup; however, it has three sub-trim options—Classic, Signature, and Iconic. While Classic comes with the base trim, the Signature and Iconic packages add features like dual-zone automatic climate control and premium leather upholstery, respectively, for an additional cost.
3. Hyundai Kona Electric
This four-door SUV is among the lowest-priced electric cars in its segment. It comes at a starting price of $34,070. Although an SUV, the Kona Electric is considered a subcompact vehicle. Its interior layout is just like its gas-powered counterpart, offering occupants enough room and cargo space. Its base trim, SE, has a 133-hp electric motor and a 48.6 kWh battery pack. This is also the cheapest electric car in the Kona Electric lineup. It comes with an EPA-estimated range of 200 miles. That said, buyers can get a more powerful performance if they opt for the SEL, N Line, or Limited trim. These models offer 201 hp, a 64.8 kWh battery, and a range of 261 miles.
4. Hyundai Ioniq 6
Available for $38,650, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 is another low-priced electric car worth considering. It is a futuristic sedan that offers great value for money. For instance, it is equipped with an 800-volt battery architecture with fast charging times. Hyundai claims that the sedan can go from 10% battery to 80% in just 18 minutes, given that one uses a 350-kW charger. As for any other automobile, the base trim, SE Standard Range, is the most affordable option here. It offers a range of 240 miles on a full charge. This model also comes with all the basic infotainment features, like a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, a navigation system, a six-speaker audio setup, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. The car also does not disappoint when it comes to safety features, offering adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning.
The base model comes with a rear-wheel drive system, while other trims in the lineup have an optional all-wheel drive configuration, which can be added to the car for an additional $3,500.
5. Tesla Model 3
This is an entry-level sedan from Tesla, priced at $40,380. Tesla recently gave the vehicle a subtle styling upgrade with a more angular look. The car has a massive 15.4-inch touchscreen as well as an 8-inch screen for rear passengers to access climate controls and infotainment features. The rear-wheel-drive, single-motor base variant of Model 3 offers 272 miles of range, while the all-wheel-drive dual-motor variant can run for 342 miles on a single charge. Although it seems to be among the most expensive options on the list, the Model 3 is the lowest-priced Tesla car one can get. It is worth noting that the EV allows one to make the most of Tesla’s Supercharger fast charging stations.