Electric vehicles are environmentally friendly because they don’t run on gasoline or diesel fuel. Instead, they use lithium-ion battery packs that feed an electric motor. EVs are popular among buyers who care about the environment, and they can save drivers money on fuel costs over time. They come in every shape and size from sedans to minivans to electric SUVs / Crossovers and even electric pickup trucks with major manufacturers like Nissan, Chevy, Ford, and Tesla offering popular models of these eco-friendly cars. Additionally, some buyers can receive state or federal EV tax rebates to help offset the initial cost of an EV.
When it comes to purchasing an EV, some shoppers may be worried about the higher upfront price tag. However, Affordable EVs near me typically cost less to operate than traditional vehicles over time because they require significantly fewer moving parts. Additionally, EVs are capable of driving further on a charge than their gas-powered counterparts thanks to more efficient electric motors.
Many of the cars on this list are available for around $50,000 or less, which is well within the price range of most buyers. We also sorted the results by battery range to make it easier for you to find an EV that can meet your needs. If you plan on doing a lot of road trips, consider an EV with a longer battery range.
The cheapest electric car on this list is the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 SE Standard Range, which starts at $42,715. This model uses a 45kWh battery that allows for a maximum claimed range of 258 miles. The Ioniq also boasts one of the highest fuel economies for electric cars on the market with an estimated 24 kWh per 100 miles.
Another option is the 2024 Kona Electric, which offers a more sophisticated driving experience than the Nissan Leaf and is available for just under $50,000. This model comes with a 202-horsepower electric powertrain that delivers an EPA-estimated driving range of 258 miles. It also has a comfortable interior with plenty of standard features, including a 12.3-inch infotainment touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and five USB ports.
This EV is also available with a $3,000 lease offer for qualified buyers. The offer is good on all bZ4X trims and includes a $2,250 discount on the battery package. The bZ4X has a more upscale feel than the entry-level Ioniq, and it also gets a larger 13.3-inch infotainment display with an upgraded Bowers & Wilkins audio system.
If you’re interested in a used electric vehicle, be sure to carefully inspect the battery pack. An old or abused battery pack can quickly degrade and limit the car’s range. You can avoid this risk by buying a new or nearly new EV with a warranty that covers the battery for its entire lifespan. Alternatively, you can purchase an extended-warranty battery pack for extra peace of mind.