- Buyers can choose from all-electric compact, mid-size and luxury cars.
- SUVs and pickup trucks are among the newest all-electric options.
- The lowest-priced all-electric vehicle is the Chevrolet Bolt EV.
- The longest-range all-electric vehicle is the Lucid Air.
It’s a great time to make the switch to an all-electric vehicle. With many manufacturers introducing all-electric models to their lineups, you have more ways to shrink your eco-footprint than ever before, without having to compromise.
This list of the best all-electric vehicles for 2023 is meant to jump-start your search. It’ll introduce you to the top cars, trucks, and SUVs on the market. Choosing an EV involves comparing many of the regular features that you need to consider when buying any automobile. However, you should also factor in your average driving range to ensure that the model will fit your lifestyle.
Tesla Model 3
With a starting price of $40,390, the Tesla Model 3 is the most economical way to benefit from the cutting-edge electric motor technology Tesla is known for. Now in its fifth year of production, the Tesla Model 3 continues to achieve impressive safety ratings.
The vehicle comes in three options. First, there’s the entry-level rear-wheel Model 3. Next is the all-wheel Model 3 Long-Range, and finally, the all-wheel Performance Model 3. The range of all three vehicles increased in the last year. The Long-Range is now capable of traveling 334 to 358 miles on a single charge.
Reportedly, it doesn’t do much to reduce road and tire noise. Some owners also say that the infotainment system takes some time to master. Also, the rear seat may prove too compact for some adult passengers. That said, the Tesla Model 3 is very popular.
Kia Niro EV
The Kia Niro EV treats you to tons of standard features at a low starting price of $39,550, making it an all-electric vehicle of exceptional value. Last year, Kia upgraded the infotainment center with a large 10.25-inch display. It has built-in SiriusXM satellite radio and a Harman Kardon audio system, yet drivers still enjoy the easy operation that earlier models boast.
Its 239-mile driving range is impressive considering its price point. The standard fast-charging system means less wait time when you do need to plug in. Despite its roomy rear seat, cargo space is minimal. Reviewers say the Niro EV is slower to accelerate, so keep this in mind if you prefer a vehicle with a ton of zip.
Volkswagen ID.4
For its second model year, the Volkswagen ID.4 now boasts a lower starting price of $38,995. That was made possible by Volkswagen’s move to a new U.S.-based manufacturing facility. Although classified as a compact SUV, this all-electric vehicle offers 37.6 inches of legroom in the back seat and a roomy cargo area with 64.2 cubic feet of space.
Its driving range of 260 miles is competitive for electric SUVs at its price point. Reviewers say the ID.4 delivers a smooth, quiet ride. While the 12-inch touchscreen on the infotainment system is a nice feature, the actual interface can prove complicated. The appearance of the interior and exterior lacks the pizzazz that most people associate with Volkswagen.
BMW iX
For a fun ride in an all-electric, look no further than the BMW iX. It’s the German automaker’s first-ever all-electric SUV. The vehicle offers powerful performance with a 516-horsepower engine, capable of going from 0-to-60 mpg in just 4.4 seconds.
Responsive handling and a plush, well-appointed interior rival what BMW’s gas-powered vehicles promise. The tech features are intuitive for easy operation. On the downside, the vehicle’s starting price is $84,100. Also, its range doesn’t match the distances that some of its similarly priced competitors can swing.
Ford Mustang Mach-E
For the second edition of the Mach-E, Ford made big improvements to the battery. The Mach-E can travel up to 314 miles before you need to plug in. The vehicle offers the zippy performance of a sports car but the generous cargo space of an SUV.
The touchscreen infotainment system is user-friendly. Best of all, the vehicle is accessibly priced, starting at $46,895. Some drivers do complain that a limited number of front seat settings can lead to discomfort during long trips. The regenerative automatic braking system reportedly takes some time to master, too.
Rivian R1S
The Rivian R1S is an SUV designed for those who want to get out and explore the world. Available in three sizes capable of seating five to seven people, this full-size SUV can take the whole family along for the adventure. It offers 14.5 inches of ground clearance for improved handling and a smoother ride while off-roading.
In regards to technical performance, the R1S boasts zero to 60 acceleration rates of just three seconds and a range of 300 miles. Starting price of $78,000, the price is on the high end, and as a new vehicle, it doesn’t have multiple years behind it. But it’s an exciting vehicle to add to your list while car shopping.
Ford F-150 Lightning
Last year, Ford introduced the all-electric version of its bestselling F-150 pickup truck, the Lightning. And it remains a great vehicle in 2023. The entry-level edition starts at $39,974 and has a range of 230 miles, which may be adequate for getting you around town.
For longer drives, you might want to upgrade to the extended-range model capable of traveling up to 300 miles. But this model will give you the added benefit of BlueCruise hands-free driving technology. With the upgrade to the long-range battery, the truck has a towing capacity of 10,000 pounds.
Source: Ford
Toyota bZ4X
The Toyota bZ4X is the Japanese automaker’s first-ever all-electric SUV — and it’s brand new in 2023. It has an accessible starting price of $42,000 and introduces both front-wheel and all-wheel drive models. So, you have choices.
Like the RS1, the Toyota bZ4X hasn’t yet been widely road tested to identify any potential weaknesses. However, Toyota is widely considered a reliable automaker. As a result, drivers can rest easy in a car from a company with decades of auto excellence behind them.
Lucid Air
Another relatively fresh arrival to the market is the Lucid Air, a new model from American electric vehicle manufacturer Lucid, which was founded in 2007. The luxury sedan comes equipped with state-of-the-art technology capable of powering the vehicle for 500 miles on a single charge.
With the ability to go from zero to 60 miles per hour in just 2.5 seconds, the sedan is undeniably powerful, and the interior is roomy and luxuriously appointed to allow you to travel in style. Unfortunately, the Lucid Air may be difficult to come by, as it’s only sold in a few states. If you do manage to track one down, pricing starts at $87,400.
Chevrolet Bolt EV
One of the biggest differences between the latest Chevrolet Bolt EV and earlier models is an attractive starting price of just $26,500. This affordable all-electric car has a competitive range for a car of its kind at 259 miles, and its ability to go from zero to 60 miles per hour in 6.5 seconds makes it fun to drive.
It boasts one-pedal driving ability with the push of a button, and the infotainment system is straightforward to use. Just don’t expect a lot of frills with the Bolt. Its cabin design focuses on function over style and luxury, and you don’t have the option to add some common upgrades.
Mini Cooper SE
For a playful, responsive city-driving experience, the Mini Cooper SE is sure to please. This two-door car has the fun, quirky appearance that has made the Mini Cooper legendary, and despite its small size, the 181-horsepower engine can reach speeds of 60 miles per hour from zero in under seven seconds.
Although it’s a brand-new vehicle, the car is expected to be widely available throughout the United States. Its starting price of $34,225 puts it within reach for many drivers. Unfortunately, the car’s older electric technology limits its range to just 114 miles.
Hyundai Kona Electric
For 2023, the Hyundai Kona Electric is back with a smoother, more minimalist front end and aerodynamic body. The newest versions of the all-electric vehicle also boast brighter LED tail lights. What hasn’t changed is the vehicle’s excellent 10,000-mile warranty.
The impressive range of standard features is available for a starting price of $33,550. Its battery pack offers a range of 258 miles, but in on-road tests, cold weather tended to dramatically reduce the distance the Kona can travel on a single charge. Other drawbacks include limited space in the back seat. Of course, like the other vehicles on this list, it’s a great pick.