5 most affordable electric vehicles
Content
Tempted by the benefits of owning an electric car? Electric vehicles are on their way to becoming a more mainstream vehicle than gasoline-powered vehicles. Electric vehicles run on electricity and require charging to recharge the battery and power the car instead of the fuel in the gas tank. They are often cited as greener driving, as they produce fewer emissions than gas-powered cars. Due to new technologies and production costs, some of the most popular and well-known battery electric vehicles come with a hefty price tag. However, several automakers have created all-electric vehicles at more affordable prices.
Drawbacks that worry many would-be EV owners are range and charging times. Most electric vehicles, especially those in the lower price range, have significantly shorter range than gasoline-powered vehicles. Also, depending on where you live, it can be difficult to find charging stations, especially if you don't have a charging station at home. Level 1 or low charging stations take about 20 hours to fully charge most electric vehicles. There are faster public supercharge charging stations, but they can be difficult to find in certain areas unless the owner has installed a level 2 charging station in their home. Most EV owners plug their cars into a wall outlet overnight to restore a full charge, or at least a sufficient charge the next day.
Despite some drawbacks, electric vehicles can be very economical depending on the user's normal driving conditions. In addition, some vehicles are available for state and federal tax credits. Passengers tired of wasting gas in traffic and city dwellers who rarely drive at high speeds or long distances may consider a cheaper electric vehicle option. Listed from most expensive to cheapest, read on for the 5 most affordable electric vehicles on the market today.
1. 2018 Volkswagen e-Golf: $30,495
vw.com
The 2018 Volkswagen e-Golf brings the sporty look of a roomy hatchback to electric vehicles. The E-Golf accelerates with speed and power just like a petrol Golf. The battery is located under the rear seats, which provides a low center of gravity, making the car feel well balanced.
Range: 125 miles on a full charge
Charger:
1 Level: 26 hours
2 Level: Less than 6 hours
DC Fast Charging: 1+ hours and only available on select models
2. 2018 Nissan Leaf: $29,990
nisanusa.com
Despite the high price tag for a small compact car, the 2018 Nissan Leaf is fairly inexpensive for an all-electric vehicle. It features a longer range than other cheaper electric vehicles and extra electric motor power. For an additional fee, it also includes an impressive infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as ProPilot Assist for semi-autonomous driving.
Range: 151 miles on a full charge
Charger:
1 Level: 35 hours
2 Level: 7.5 hours
DC Fast Charging: Not available
3. 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Electric: $29,500
hyundaiusa.com
Available only to California residents, the 2018 Hyundai Ioniq Electric offers another affordable option, especially in a state with infamous traffic in its biggest cities. It offers standard range and ride comfort for safe and easy electric driving. It also comes with upgradeable driver assistance options.
Range: 124 miles on a full charge
Charger:
1 Level: 24 hours
2 Level: 4 hours
DC Fast Charging: Half an hour
4. 2018 Ford Focus Electric: $29,120
ford.com
The 2018 Ford Focus Electric is one of many reliable Focus models. It helps most riders by providing enough power for a fast ride, yet still providing enough control for a smooth ride. Its sporty look compared to other electric vehicles can be attractive.
Range: 115 miles on a full charge
Charger:
1 Level: 20 hours
2 Level: 5.5 hours
DC Fast Charging: Half an hour
5. 2018 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive: $24,650
smartusa.com
If you like to fit into any parking space, the 2018 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive is the perfect option. Great for the city, it qualifies as a subcompact car, ditching the conventional rear seat, and is available as a coupe or convertible. Its small size also makes it with less range, so it's really best for navigating clustered cityscapes frequently.
Range: 58 miles on a full charge.
Charger:
1 Level: 21 hours
2 Level: 3 hours
DC Fast Charging: Not available
