Are you feeling the squeeze of gas prices these days? Do you look longingly at the Tesla that cruises by you on the highway? If you can relate to these questions, don’t you think it’s time to really consider if an EV is right for you?
Buying an EV may feel more complicated than purchasing an old-school gas-powered car. After all, there are plenty of factors to consider: charging stations, EV mileage, EV rebates, etc. A recent piece in the New York Times notes that EV cost is one of the biggest hurdles to consumers; that’s a totally reasonable concern when you consider that the sticker price for the latest Tesla Model S is well over $100,000 (ouch). Even when one considers EV incentives and long-term fuel savings, the majority of Americans just don’t have that kind of cash lying around.
The odds are finally in your favor — the 2022 and 2023 Electric Vehicle lineup is more affordable than ever with all kinds of new options. From minis to hatchbacks to compact SUVs, you can find an EV that fits your sustainable lifestyle without draining your savings.
The MSRP for the 2023 Chevy Bolt EV gets top marks for affordability at just $25,600; this is a big drop from the 2022 version, which is listed at $31,500. There’s not much difference between the 2022 and 2023 models except the price drop. The Chevy Bolt is super budget-friendly and fun to drive (hello, Sport Mode). You can even expect an estimated 259 miles per charge. As an added incentive, Chevrolet will cover the cost of the home charging outlet.
The Nissan LEAF was the original pioneer for a nationwide EV. At a base price of $28,040, the 2023 Nissan LEAF is still an accessible EV, though it’s slightly more expensive than the 2022 model’s MSRP of $27,400. The Nissan LEAF has been around since 2011, and each year, its mileage gets a little better. You can expect 149 miles per charge for the base model. You’ll find endless comparisons between the Chevy Bolt and Nissan LEAF, but a few key differences stand out. The Nissan LEAF has significantly more cargo room, and it qualifies for the federal tax rebate for EVs (which no longer applies to the Chevrolets).
The 2022 Mazda MX-30 boasted an MSRP of $33,470, but you’ll likely have to wait until the 2023 release to shop around for one of these EVs. The 2022 model was only available in California, and the limited stock is sold out. At just 100 miles per charge, this EV falls well below its peers, though the Mazda does have some cool features to consider. For one, the interior is made entirely from sustainable materials. Mazda also offers qualified buyers a $500 credit toward the purchase of their home charging station.
With an MSRP of $34,000 and an estimated 258 miles per charge, the Hyundai Kona Electric is an EV to consider. However, it’s not yet available nationwide (look for this model in one of these lucky states: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, or Washington). The Hyundai Kona Electric received top marks for safety tests; plus, the 2022 and 2023 models both qualify for the federal tax rebate.
If you’re a fan of The Italian Job or maybe even Austin Powers, you should definitely take a look at Mini Cooper’s foray into the EV market. The 2023, two-door Mini Cooper SE Hardtop has a base MSRP of $34,225, which is a slight hike from the 2022 sticker price (at $33,900). While its mileage is on the lower end (just 114 miles per charge), this EV charges quicker than other brands in a similar price range. This vehicle is sporty and small, so consider it for busy cities or a fun second car.
The team at Volkswagon offers the impressively roomy ID.4, an entirely electric compact SUV for under $40,000. The 2023 ID.4 has a base price of $37,495, which is a notable drop from the 2022 model’s MSRP (at $40,760). The ID.4 has an estimated range of at least 200 miles per charge, plus 2023 buyers get three years of free, 30-minute charging.
As EV demand increases and technology improves, you can bet that more brands will begin offering accessible EV models. Depending on your state, you could qualify for some serious tax credits too, which makes your Electric Vehicle more affordable than ever.
Published October 25, 2022 3:10PM
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