There is an impressive list of advantages to owning an e-car.
- Firstly, it is the most environmentally friendly type of transport on modern roads, as it does not pollute the air with emissions.
- Secondly, thanks to the instantaneous transmission of torque, e-cars are much faster than their combustion engine counterparts.
- Thirdly, it is much cheaper to charge an electric battery than to fill a gas tank. And if you do that from a home solar energy plant, you can at least save money from a weekly trip to a gas station.
According to James Smith at the bestarny.com, the main disadvantage of e-cars (perhaps even the only and most likely temporary one) is their price. Nevertheless, they are much cheaper to maintain, and their owners can count on tax breaks, and the manufacturers can count on government incentives in the form of investment subsidies. In some countries, these vehicles are entitled to free parking and have reserved seats in public parks and/or airports.
Electric vehicle technology can be attractive by itself, but the question of which particular e-car is right for you remains open. I have reviewed all the electric cars available in 2018 and narrowed the list of cars worth buying to 5 favorites. Their key features will be shown below.
Several critical considerations were taken into account when choosing the best electric car. One of the key points for the customer is the electric range, the price, and the projected fuel economy. In addition, reliability, versatility, performance, and design were also taken into account. Despite the fact that only 13 models participated in the current selection, 2019 promises to be more productive – new products from Audi, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Nissan, Porsche, KIA, Jaguar, Hyundai, and Volvo are expected.
Prices are for basic equipment without additional options, taxes, and fees. Energy consumption is given in MPGe (with the value in l/100 km).
- Hyundai Ionic Electric
Range: 200 km.
MPGe: 150 city / 122 highway (1.57/1.93).
Price: $30,385 US$ 30,385 PRICE: US$ 30,385.
One of the latest models in the e-car market, the compact Hyundai Ionic Electric hatchback has a long enough range of mileage without recharging, making it convenient in daily use for most users. The 118hp electric motor may not be the most dynamic in this list, but the torque of 295 Nm provides a quick start and a pleasant acceleration experience.
It’s a spacious and stylish car with standard features that include adaptive LED headlights and smartphone sync. It can be complemented by an automatic braking system, intelligent cruise control, blind spot monitor and lane control system.
Range: 243 km.
MPGe: 125 city / 100 highway (1.88/2.35).
Price: $30,885 US$ 30,885 PRICE: US$ 30,885.
It is one of the oldest e-cars (r/y 2010). In 2018, Nissan increased its range by almost 50% to an incredibly practical 243 km, and its power – to 147 hp. At the same time, the price of Leaf 2018-2019 was reduced by the manufacturer.
The car has a full set of assistants to prevent accidents, autonomous drive technology ProPILOT and the e-Pedal system that allows you to drive in a “one pedal” mode.
- Chevrolet Bolt EV
Range: 383 km.
MPGe: 128 city / 110 highway (1.84/2.14).
Price: $37,495 US$ 1.5 MILLION (US$ 1.5 MILLION).
Chevrolet Bolt EV is an affordable e-car with a large energy range. It is a compact car, similar to SUV-models by its look and much more spacious than it seems at first glance. The engine has 200 hp. As Nissan Leaf, Bolt EV can be driven in “one pedal” mode with the maximum regenerative braking, though the e-car can be operated traditionally at will. Its supposed range of 383 km is enough for long daily trips.
- Tesla Model 3
Range: 499 km.
MPGe: 136 city / 123 highway (1.73 / 1.91).
Price: $50,200 US$50,200 PRICE: US$50,200.
Although we have yet to see the promised basic version of the middle class costing $35,000, the 50,000 version impresses with its elegant appearance, futuristic design, and overall performance. The maximum speed is 250 km/h, and up to 100 km/h, it accelerates in just 3.5 seconds. All-wheel drive will be needed for those who live in a region with wet or snowy winters.
Tesla’s optional Autopilot system is almost self-contained, but the driver still needs to keep the hands on the steering wheel and be ready to grab it. Most of the e-vehicle’s onboard systems are controlled by a 15-inch touch screen on the dashboard.
- Tesla Model S
Range: 400-570 km.
MPGe: 92-102 city / 100-105 highway (2.45 / 2.28).
Price: $75,700 US$55,700 PRICE: US$75,700.
Although this is the most expensive model in this list, this sedan deserves a leading position. With a choice of battery capacity, the Model S outperforms other e-vehicles in range. The extensive charger grid ensures long and comfortable rides. Even a few years after its debut, this stunningly stylish car is still a favorite one among the users.
All-wheel drive is supplied as standard, and a speed of 100 km/h is achieved in just 2.5 seconds. The onboard systems are controlled by a 17-inch screen on a futuristic dashboard. Autopilot and the third row of seats (for children) are available as optional extras.
