If you’re looking for your next car to be fueled by watts, not gasoline, it may seem that the price of plugging in is exorbitant — and it is. According to Kelley Blue Book, the average price paid in 2021 for an electric vehicle (EV) was $56,437, a difference of $10,108 or 17.9% from the overall industry average of $46,329 — itself a record high.
But there are more affordable EV models available than ever before. In fact, Chevrolet reduced the price of its redesigned Bolt EV by $5,000 for 2022, even though it redesigned the vehicle’s interior and freshened its exterior.
As a general rule, you’ll find that most EVs are front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, with a few exceptions. And the most popular vehicles on this list provide about 200 horsepower, and approximately 250 miles of range.
Our list ranks each vehicle by starting price for the base model before destination charge, sales tax and options, so your final price will be higher. Also, keep in mind that all the listed vehicles are eligible for a federal tax credit – except for the Chevrolets.
So, let’s plug into what’s available among inexpensive EVs.
10. Kia EV6
MSRP: $40,900
Range: 232-310 miles
The EV6, is more than just a handsome face. Its modern, minimalist layout boasts surprisingly luxurious detailing. Linear steering, well-controlled body lean, and instant-on torque provides more than enough speed. All-wheel-drive EV6s have more power, but rear-wheel-drive trims are more fun when carving through corners.
9. Volkswagen ID.4
MSRP: $40,760
Range: 245-280 miles
Volkswagen’s first U.S.-market EV, the ID.4 is 4.6 inches shorter, 1.9 inches lower, and 0.5 inches wider than a Volkswagen Tiguan, but offers more head and leg room, and 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 64.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. And its starkly modern interior ambience endows it with a futuristic feel.
8. Ford F-150 Lightning
MSRP: $39,974
Range: 230-320 miles
An initial ride in a pre-production F-150 Lightning retains most of what you expect from a classic pickup truck, but equipped with an electric motor on each axle, which provides for all-wheel drive. Payload is rated at 1,800 or 2,000 pounds, with a tow rating of 7,700-to-20,000 pounds depending on which battery pack you choose.
7. Kia Niro EV
MSRP: $39,990
Range: 239 miles
While not sold in all 50 states, the Kia Niro EV shares its electric driveline with the Hyundai Kona Electric but has a more accommodating back seat. Last redesigned for 2020, it may not seem as modern as some of its competitors, while its interior won’t win any awards for glamor. Still, it remains a competitive, if overlooked, EV.
6. Hyundai Kona Electric
MSRP: $34,000
Range: 258 miles
With 201 horsepower, about the same as the Chevy Bolt EUV, the electrified rendition of the Hyundai Kona offers the same agile handling of its gas-powered counterpart and quicker acceleration. But it lacks the roomy interior of some of its competitors, which may be a turnoff for some buyers.
5. Mazda MX-30
MSRP: $33,470
Range: 100 miles
This California compliance car is a fairly affordable commuter car, although nearly every other EV offers more mileage from a single charge. Its aesthetics are sophisticated and easy to appreciate, but the vehicle’s utility is hampered by the negligible back seat space. And while it’s fun to drive, that may not be enough to entice you.
4. Chevrolet Bolt EUV
MSRP: $33,500
Range: 247 miles
Slightly larger than the Chevrolet Bolt EV, the Bolt EUV offers a bit more passenger space than its smaller companion. All Bolts are front-wheel drive. The Bolt EUV takes good advantage of the instant torque generated by its electric motor, with an overall feel that’s a definite improvement over the Bolt EV.
3. Chevrolet Bolt EV
MSRP: $31,500
Range: 259 miles
Chevrolet’s first electric car gets a far more modern face for 2022, while adding DC fast charging capability that provides up to 100 miles of range in 30 minutes. Inside, Chevrolet has revamped the roomy interior although the mechanicals remain unchanged, as does its good handling dynamics. And remarkably, it’s $5,000 cheaper for 2022.
2. Mini Cooper SE Electric Hardtop
MSRP: $29,900
Range: 114 miles
Easily among the most fun-to-drive EVs on this list, with Mini’s trademark go-cart handling and cheeky styling that will bring a smile to your face. It’s also among the cheapest EVs you can buy. That said, its meager 110-mile range means this is nothing more than a commuter car. But think of the fun you’ll have behind the wheel.
1. Nissan Leaf
MSRP: $28,425
Range: 149-215 miles
Little has changed since the Nissan Leaf was redesigned. So, Nissan has lowered its price and added a standard fast-charging port. While the interior isn’t cutting edge, it is functional and features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The base Leaf has a 149-mile range; the Leaf Plus has 215 miles of range, but starts at a pricier $32,400.
