Today’s electric car market is bigger and better. Buyers have a vast selection from cheap models like the Nissan Leaf to premium Tesla cars at the forefront of the luxury EV world. Whether you are looking for unparalleled luxury, performance, convenience, or affordability, we are at a point where electric cars have compelling features to meet most people’s needs.
Best Electric Cars in the World
1. 2020 Tesla Model S
Tesla’s Model S proved to the world that an electric vehicle could be fun, comfortable, useable for everyday commutes, and viable for long trips. Starting at $70,620, Tesla Model S is as stunning as ever and one of the most sought-after electric vehicles today.
The 2020 Tesla Model S is a long-range variant that has an EPA-estimated range of 402 miles. No other automaker has been able to match this range. It comes with all the Tesla technical features that accompany Elon Musk’s creations. Over-the-air updates alongside adaptive air suspension are some of the specs to enjoy on this make.
As expected, Tesla Model S delivers a punch in acceleration with 0-60mph time of 2.3 seconds. Two electric motors allow it to draw power from either a 100 or 75kWh battery through a single transmission drive system. The four-door saloon can seat five people to establish itself as a family car.
We particularly like that Tesla has a network of superchargers. This model is due to receive a software update that will reduce the charging time by 25% using V3 Supercharging.
The luxurious body, smooth steering, and over-the-top performance of the Tesla Model S earn it a rank alongside automaker giants like Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi.
Porsche Taycan 4S
Porsche Taycan is not your average electric car. The starting price of $116,650 for the 4S means it is an expensive vehicle. The sporty styling of this car extends from handling to supreme agility and fierce acceleration. It is a revolutionary car that represents the massive capabilities of the electric vehicle.
Surprisingly, it weighs 2.2 tons, but you won’t notice its bulk thanks to the dynamic body and 19-inch wheels. It drives flawlessly and will weave in and out of corners without incidence. The 4S features a 522hp powertrain and adaptive air suspension. It is the cheapest offering in this lineup, meaning you will miss out on a few extras like heated seats and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Taycan models feature two electric motors that accelerate from 0-62mph in 2.8 seconds. The 4S comes with a standard 522hp motor to accelerate from 0-62mph in 4.0 seconds. Its two-speed transmission system allows you the thrill of shifting gears during fast acceleration.
The Porsche Taycan is a top-notch ride that has established a position in luxury electric car motoring.
2020 Tesla Model 3
The 2020 Tesla Model 3 is a top-selling car in the UK. It’s like the Tesla we’ve all been waiting for, striking a balance between affordability and impressive technology. This car offers effortless acceleration and is rated to go more than 200 miles on a single battery. There are different versions of the 2020 Tesla Model 3, from the Performance to the Standard Range Plus, the top scorer in its class.
Like all Tesla cars, it carries the battery under the floor, allowing it to remain stable, especially when navigating corners. Acceleration is just as you can expect in a Tesla since it sprints from 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds.
Most people appreciate the semi-automated drive assistance features plus the massive infotainment system. However, you have to be touch dexterous because it does not have hard buttons. However, a comfortable ride awaits you since the Model 3 gains speed silently. The only noise in the cabin will be the wheels thrumming against the pavement.
The Tesla Model 3 blows all other entry-level electric cars out of the water. It delivers nearly 200 miles of real-world range, a refined interior, and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network.
2021 Mercedes-Benz EQC
The Mercedes-Benz EQC is the brand’s first electric SUV. It looks and feels like a Mercedes SUV only with a silent cabin because of the absence of a gas engine. It is not a premium-sporty car but rather a daily transportation SUV that costs considerably lower than other luxurious EVs.
This model meshes together performance, practicality, and sustainability. It features twin electric motors on a single-speed, direct-drive transmission to power all four wheels. It comes with an 80kWh battery and combines peak outputs of 402hp and 561lb-ft to deliver incredible driving performance. Its real-world range is also impressive at 259 miles to come ahead of the Tesla Model 3.
Mercedes is known for its safety standards that have extended to this model. The EQC’s battery is narrower than its direct rival, Tesla. It leaves out 10cm on either side of the battery where impact-absorbing material is used. This feature makes it safer to prevent accidental fires experienced by other EVs.
When it comes to driving, this model offers a refined experience because even the suspension is superior. Your ears are not rendered to the noise of wheels against the tarmac as in other EVs. Not to mention its ability to go from 0-62mph in 5.1 seconds. It’s a powerful car that paves the way for the brand’s battery-powered future designs.
Affordable Electric Cars
2020 Kia Niro Evo
The Kia e-Niro is practical, comfortable, and versatile. This compact SUV is not outwardly luxurious. It is all about how far it can get you without screaming it’s electric. There’s not much to differentiate it from its hybrid counterparts.
With 239miles of the estimated EPA range, the global demand for this vehicle is not going down any time soon. Among its top features include a 39kWh battery and a 134hp electric motor. Except for the electric dials and a rotary gear selector, the interior continues to showcase its familiarity. Also available is a 10.25-inch customizable touchscreen and interior ambient lighting.
Although it costs more than the Nissan Leaf and Hyundai Ioniq Electric, the Kia e-Nero headlines a superior battery to establish itself as one of the best electric vehicles for everyday commutes.
2021 Hyundai Kona Electric
You’ve guessed it. The 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric is the electric version of the Hyundai Kona SUV. It is easy to pick for short road trips thanks to its 258 miles range. Its 64kW lithium-ion battery complements a 120hp electric motor to deliver quick acceleration speeds of 6.6 seconds from 0-60mph.
As a subcompact SUV, this vehicle can seat four adults, although the rear seats can feel a bit tight. It offers 45.8 cubic ft of space when the back seats are down, rendering it to more cargo area for those road trips we talked about.
The fun does not stop on the drive specs as it extends its qualities to excellent tech. A 7.5-inch infotainment system sits at the cockpit in the standard model. In contrast, the Ultimate trim comes with a 10.5-inch unit. It also features a 6-speaker audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto Capability.
You won’t find sporty features on the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric but an engaging driving experience for such a cheap electric vehicle.
2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV
Before any other electric car could claim long-range on an affordable vehicle, Chevrolet Bolt was already doing it in 2017. The 2021 model is even better as it solidifies its best features. This car still offers over 250 miles EPA range, an acceleration speed of 6.5 seconds from 0-60mph.
Its tall hatchback body style offers ample cabin space that can fit five people. It provides 16.9 cubic ft of space without folding the rear seats and 56.6 cubic ft with the seats down. We like that its 66kW battery can reach a full charge in 10 hours on a level 2 charger. It can plug in directly to a 120v outlet, but this will add only 4 miles of range per hour of charging.
The driver has access to two screens. One for connectivity, and the other is a digital instrument cluster. The 2021 Chevy Bolt is at the forefront of safety with a total of ten airbags. It also features automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and forward collision alert.
Before you buy an Electric Car
What is your budget – Sometimes, leasing an electric car is better than buying a brand new one. Go through financing options available to you like a tax credit, government incentives, rebates, etc.
How far is the nearest public charging station – If you can’t charge at home, you could face the challenge of filling your car when it’s supposed to be stress-free.
What are your daily needs – If you average 50 miles a day, you should consider an EV with at least 100 miles or range on a single charge. Medium range and long-distance electric cars are also available. Be sure to go for one that suits your needs.
Conclusion
The above round-up is just but a little insight into what the electric vehicle world has to offer. These are the top-selling cars that manage to strike a balance between the consumer’s needs and efficiency. You will find top-of-the-line luxury models and more affordable options that compete effectively to stake a claim on the market.
Sam is Automole’s editor-in-chief and classic car enthusiast. Sam is studying mechanical engineering at Cockrell School of Engineering, Austin. He also writes for many top automotive publications and appears on the Collecting Cars Podcast.