Hi friends! It’s your pal Patrick James, and today we’re finishing out our series (series!) on electric vehicles. With the price of gas these days, the idea of just plugging in and forgetting the price at the pump is very attractive. (I still will, though. You can pry Sally from my cold dead hands, which means I’ll still be filling her up whenever we adventure.) As I mentioned last time, I’ve been researching EVs since Lindsay’s been eyeing a new car for her long commute. (She’s interested in a truck too – but that’s another post!) Here are my top picks for affordable new EVs that won’t break the bank. Let’s go!
2024 Nissan Leaf
Starting off with the cheapest and one of the best known is the Nissan Leaf. These are a good value at a starting price of $28,040 (with a 3750 tax credit!), and have a range of 149-212 miles per charge. That range is one of its drawbacks (other models will go longer between charges), as well as having an outdated charging port, which can make fueling on the go a hassle.
2024 Hyundai Kona
Also on the less expensive side is the Hyundai Kona, starting at $32,675 (no tax credits, boo). This SUV has a sporty look and futuristic dashboard display that can receive software updates on the go. It’s also got a lower range – 200 miles per charge for the base model, but if you are willing to spend a little more, the range stretches to 261 miles, and the car includes premium features like a Bose sound system.
2023 Volkswagen ID.4
Next on the list is the VW ID.4. This little hatchback starts at 38,995 (and qualifies for the full $7500 tax credit), and gets a 208 miles per charge range at that level. Fancier models can reach 275 miles per charge. All models feature automated driving assists, though the higher end models include benefits like faster acceleration, swankier interiors, and trailor hitches.
Tesla Model 3
You didn’t think we were going to skip Tesla, did you? The name synonymous with electric vehicles, the Model 3 starts at $38,990 and boasts an impressive 272 mile per charge range. Another benefit of the Tesla is its Supercharging network, making longer drives less of a challenge. They also feature fun add-ons like self driving features, though adapters to charge at home are additional and can be pricy.
2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E
I’ll never give up Sally…but I would consider buying another Mustang. The Mach-E starts at 39,895, and gets a range of 226-312 miles per charge – not bad! Besides the benefits of it being a Mustang, this EV has a few other perks, like access to Tesla supercharging stations and Ford’s BlueCruise autonomous driving system.
2022 Ford F-150 Lightning
I know I said I was going to cover trucks in another post, but this was too good to make you all wait. The F-150 Lightning starts at $39,974, and can get up to 230 miles on a charge. It combines the best of both worlds – a solid EV with a robust charger network, hands-free driving, and a great app, plus 7700lb towing capacity, 0-60 acceleration in 4 seconds, and 6 seats in addition to the bed – Lindsay would have no problem bringing home her salvage finds in this baby!
What do you think? Could any of these cars make you break up with travelling to the gas station, or will you keep up your love affair with your current ride? Should I do more series posts — if so, what would you like to hear about? Sound off in the comments!
Stay cool,
Patrick James