What electric SUVs are available right now

The 2024 electric SUV market includes models across three size categories: compact crossovers, midsize SUVs, and full-size vehicles. Major manufacturers offering electric SUVs in 2024 include Tesla (Model Y), Ford (Mustang Mach-E), Chevrolet (Blazer EV, Equinox EV), Hyundai (Ioniq 5, Kona Electric), Kia (EV9, EV6), BMW (iX), Mercedes-Benz (EQE SUV, EQS SUV), Audi (Q4 e-tron), Volkswagen (ID.4, ID.5), Volvo (EX90), Polestar (3), and Rivian (R1S). Prices range from around $27,000 for the Chevrolet Equinox EV to over $100,000 for luxury models like the BMW iX and Mercedes EQS SUV.

Each manufacturer offers multiple trim levels and battery options within their electric SUV lineup. A compact electric SUV typically seats five passengers, while full-size models like the Rivian R1S can accommodate up to seven. The choice between models often comes down to your budget, desired range, charging speed, and interior features rather than availability — most of these vehicles are in production now, though wait times vary by dealer and region.

Key Takeaways

  • Electric SUVs in 2024 range from compact crossovers under $30,000 to luxury models over $100,000, with most mainstream options between $40,000 and $70,000.
  • Real-world driving range varies by model and battery size, typically between 200 and 350 miles per charge, with larger batteries adding $5,000 to $15,000 to the price.
  • Charging time depends on whether you use a home Level 2 charger (8 to 12 hours for a full charge), a workplace charger, or a public DC fast charger (30 minutes to an hour for 80 percent charge).
  • Federal tax credits up to $7,500 are available for some 2024 electric SUVs, though may be able to access depends on the vehicle's final assembly location, battery component sourcing, and your household income.
  • Maintenance costs are generally lower than gas SUVs because electric motors have fewer moving parts, though tire wear can be higher due to vehicle weight.

Battery range and real-world driving distance

Electric SUV range in 2024 models spans from around 200 miles on the smallest batteries to 350+ miles on the largest. The Chevrolet Equinox EV offers 319 miles on its standard battery; the Tesla Model Y Long Range reaches 330 miles; the Kia EV9 with its largest battery claims 304 miles. These are EPA estimates, meaning they represent what the agency measured in controlled lab conditions, not what you will see every day.

Real-world range depends on how you drive, the weather, and terrain. Highway driving at 70 mph uses more energy than city driving. Cold weather reduces range by 20 to 40 percent because the battery works less efficiently and you use energy to heat the cabin. Towing or carrying heavy cargo also cuts range. Most owners find they get 70 to 85 percent of the EPA estimate under normal conditions, and closer to 50 to 60 percent in winter or at highway speeds.

The practical question is whether the range meets your daily needs. If you drive 40 miles a day and charge at home overnight, even a 200-mile range vehicle works fine. If you regularly drive 200+ miles in a single day without access to charging, you will want a model with at least 300 miles of range, or you will spend time waiting at charging stations.

Charging options and how long they take

Three types of chargers exist: Level 1 (standard 120-volt household outlet), Level 2 (240-volt home or public charger), and DC fast charging (public stations). Level 1 adds roughly 3 to 5 miles of range per hour and is impractical for regular use — it would take 40+ hours to fully charge most electric SUVs. Most owners install a Level 2 charger at home, which adds 25 to 30 miles of range per hour and fully charges an electric SUV overnight (8 to 12 hours depending on battery size).

DC fast chargers at public stations add 150 to 200 miles in 20 to 30 minutes, or about 80 percent charge in 30 to 45 minutes. After 80 percent, charging slows significantly to protect battery health, so reaching 100 percent at a fast charger takes much longer. Most owners use fast chargers only for long trips, not daily driving.

Home charging availability matters. If you rent an apartment without dedicated parking or a garage, installing a Level 2 charger is difficult or impossible. In that case, you depend on workplace charging or public networks like Electrify America, EVgo, and ChargePoint. Subscription costs for public charging vary — some networks charge per kilowatt-hour (similar to paying for gas), others charge a monthly fee, and some offer both options.

Price, federal tax credits, and what affects the final cost

The 2024 federal tax credit for electric vehicles is up to $7,500, but not all electric SUVs or all buyers may have access to. The credit requires final assembly in North America, limits on battery component sourcing (designed to favor vehicles with batteries made or assembled in the US), and income caps. For 2024, the income limit is $300,000 for joint filers and $150,000 for single filers. The vehicle's manufacturer suggested retail price also has a cap: $55,000 for SUVs.

Many 2024 electric SUVs fall within these limits. The Chevrolet Equinox EV, Blazer EV, and Silverado EV may have access to for the full $7,500. The Tesla Model Y qualifies depending on trim level and configuration. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 may have access to. Luxury models like the BMW iX and Mercedes EQS SUV do not meet the price cap. You can transfer the credit to the dealer at purchase (they reduce the price), or claim it on your tax return the following year.

Beyond the federal credit, some states offer additional rebates. California, New York, and Colorado have their own incentives. Check your state's energy office website for current programs. The actual out-of-pocket cost after incentives is often $5,000 to $10,000 less than the sticker price for may have access to vehicles.

Maintenance, reliability, and long-term costs

Electric SUVs have fewer moving parts than gas vehicles — no oil changes, spark plugs, timing belts, or transmission fluid. Routine maintenance typically means tire rotations, brake fluid checks, and cabin air filter replacements. Brake pads last longer because regenerative braking (where the motor slows the vehicle and recaptures energy) does most of the stopping work. Many owners report going 50,000+ miles before needing brake service.

Tire wear is often higher than in gas SUVs because electric vehicles are heavier — the battery adds 1,000 to 1,500 pounds. Tires may need replacement every 30,000 to 50,000 miles instead of 40,000 to 60,000. Battery degradation is gradual; most manufacturers warranty batteries for 8 years or 100,000 miles, and real-world data shows batteries retain 85 to 95 percent of capacity after that period. Battery replacement, if needed outside warranty, costs $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the model.

Insurance costs for electric SUVs are typically 5 to 15 percent higher than comparable gas vehicles, partly because repair costs are higher (specialized technicians, expensive battery components) and partly because the vehicles are newer and less common. As the market matures and repair networks expand, this gap is narrowing.

Comparing compact, midsize, and full-size electric SUVs

Compact electric SUVs like the Hyundai Kona Electric and Volkswagen ID.4 seat five, offer 200 to 260 miles of range, and cost $27,000 to $45,000. They are easier to park, use less energy per mile, and work well for daily commuting and occasional longer trips. The trade-off is less cargo space and no third-row seating.

Midsize electric SUVs like the Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Kia EV6 seat five, offer 250 to 330 miles of range, and cost $43,000 to $75,000. They balance practicality with performance and are the most popular category. Most offer optional all-wheel drive and fast acceleration.

Full-size electric SUVs like the Rivian R1S, Kia EV9, and Volvo EX90 seat six or seven, offer 280 to 350 miles of range, and cost $65,000 to $120,000. They provide the most interior space and towing capacity (some can tow 5,000+ pounds) but use more energy and cost more to charge. The Rivian R1S is the only 2024 electric SUV with genuine three-row seating and a large cargo area.

Performance, driving feel, and what to expect behind the wheel

Electric SUVs accelerate faster than most gas SUVs in the same price range. Even modest models like the Chevrolet Equinox EV (0 to 60 mph in about 7 seconds) feel responsive. High-performance versions like the Tesla Model Y Performance (0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds) rival sports cars. This quick acceleration is because electric motors deliver maximum torque when ready, unlike gas engines that build power gradually.

Handling is generally better than in gas SUVs because the battery pack sits low in the floor, lowering the center of gravity. The vehicle feels more planted in corners. Regenerative braking takes adjustment — when you lift off the accelerator, the vehicle slows noticeably without touching the brake pedal. Most drivers adapt within a few days and prefer it because it reduces brake wear and extends range.

Noise levels are much lower. There is no engine rumble, and at highway speeds you hear mostly tire and wind noise. This makes long drives quieter and less fatiguing. Interior features vary widely — some models offer advanced driver information systems, over-the-air software updates, and large touchscreens, while others are more basic. Test drive multiple models to find the driving experience and features that match your preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to replace the battery before I sell the vehicle?

No. Most 2024 electric SUV batteries retain 85 to 95 percent of their capacity after 100,000 miles and are warrantied for 8 years. Degradation is gradual and does not require replacement unless capacity drops below 70 percent, which is rare within the vehicle's typical ownership period. Battery health is a selling point, not a liability.

Can I charge an electric SUV in an apartment without a dedicated parking spot?

It is difficult but possible. You would rely on workplace charging, public DC fast chargers, or asking your apartment complex to install a shared charger. Some apartment buildings are adding Level 2 chargers in common areas. If charging access is limited, an electric SUV may not be practical for your situation — a plug-in hybrid SUV (which has a gas engine backup) might be a better fit.

What happens to an electric SUV in very cold weather?

Range drops 20 to 40 percent because the battery is less efficient and you use energy to heat the cabin. Charging also slows in cold weather. The vehicle still works fine — it just requires more frequent charging stops on long trips. Preheating the cabin while plugged in (rather than using battery power) helps minimize range loss.

Are electric SUVs safe in a crash?

Yes. The battery pack is mounted low and protected by the vehicle frame. Crash test ratings for 2024 electric SUVs are comparable to or better than gas SUVs in the same class. The main difference is that repair after a crash may be more expensive because technicians need specialized training to work on high-voltage systems safely.

Can I tow a trailer with an electric SUV?

Some can, but not all. The Rivian R1S can tow up to 7,700 pounds. The Kia EV9 can tow up to 5,000 pounds. Smaller models like the Chevrolet Equinox EV have no towing capacity. Towing significantly reduces range — expect 30 to 50 percent less distance per charge. Check the specific model's towing capacity before purchasing if this is important to you.