What electric vehicles are on the market right now

Electric vehicles (EVs) are cars, trucks, and vans powered by rechargeable batteries instead of gasoline engines. You can buy them new from most major automakers, and used models are increasingly available through dealers and private sellers. The market includes everything from compact sedans under $30,000 to luxury SUVs over $100,000, plus pickup trucks, minivans, and performance cars.

The vehicles available to you depend on your budget, how far you need to drive between charges, and what body style fits your life. A single charge typically covers 200 to 400 miles on newer models, though some premium vehicles go further. Most people charge at home overnight, but public charging networks exist in most populated areas and along major highways.

Key Takeaways

  • Electric vehicles range from affordable compact cars like the Nissan Leaf and Chevy Bolt to luxury models and trucks, with prices starting around $25,000 and going well above $100,000.
  • Battery range varies widely—budget models often go 200 to 250 miles per charge, while premium vehicles can exceed 400 miles.
  • Most EV owners charge at home using a standard outlet or a dedicated home charger, and public charging networks are available in most cities and along highways.
  • Different automakers offer different body styles: sedans, SUVs, crossovers, trucks, and vans, so you can find an EV that matches your needs.
  • Used electric vehicles are becoming more common and can cost significantly less than new models, though battery health varies by age and mileage.

Affordable electric vehicles under $40,000

The most budget-conscious option is the Nissan Leaf, which has been sold since 2010 and costs around $28,000 to $35,000 new depending on trim level. It seats five, has a range of roughly 150 to 226 miles per charge, and is widely available used. The Leaf's long history means repair shops know how to service it, and used batteries are available if replacement becomes necessary.

The Chevrolet Bolt EV and Bolt EUV (a taller crossover version) start around $26,000 to $27,000 and offer 259 to 247 miles of range respectively. Both are hatchbacks with good cargo space and can charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in roughly 30 minutes at a fast charger. Chevy discontinued the Bolt after 2023, so new inventory is limited, but used models from 2022 and earlier are appearing at dealerships.

The Hyundai Kona Electric starts around $34,000 and delivers 253 miles of range in base trim. It is a compact SUV, so it sits higher than a sedan and offers more cargo room. The Kia Niro EV is a similar vehicle from Hyundai's sister brand, priced comparably with slightly different styling.

The Tesla Model 3 starts around $38,000 for the rear-wheel-drive version and offers 272 miles of range. It is a sedan with a minimalist interior and no traditional dashboard buttons—controls are on the touchscreen. Tesla's Supercharger network is the largest in North America, which matters if you take long road trips frequently.

Mid-range electric vehicles from $40,000 to $70,000

The Tesla Model Y is the best-selling EV globally and starts around $43,000 for the rear-wheel-drive model with 330 miles of range. It is a compact SUV with a large interior and seats five comfortably. All-wheel-drive and performance versions cost more but add speed and winter traction.

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is a sedan with a futuristic design that starts around $42,000 and offers up to 361 miles of range. It is narrower than typical sedans, which some drivers find awkward but others appreciate for easier parking. The Kia EV6 is a crossover from the same parent company, priced around $42,000 to $58,000 depending on trim, with 310 to 330 miles of range.

The Ford Mustang Mach-E is a performance-oriented SUV starting around $41,000 with 312 miles of range in the extended-range version. It has a traditional dashboard and controls familiar to people coming from gas vehicles. The Volkswagen ID.4 is another compact SUV, priced from around $38,000 to $48,000, with 275 to 275 miles of range depending on battery size.

The BMW i4 is a luxury sedan starting around $60,000 with 301 miles of range. It offers premium interior materials, a traditional dashboard layout, and performance handling. The Audi Q4 e-tron is a luxury compact SUV in the same price range with similar range and features.

Premium and performance electric vehicles over $70,000

The Tesla Model S is a large sedan starting around $73,000 with 405 miles of range in the long-range version. It accelerates faster than most sports cars and has a minimalist interior. The Tesla Model X is a three-row SUV starting around $75,000 with 348 miles of range and distinctive falcon-wing doors.

The Mercedes-Benz EQE and EQS are luxury sedans starting around $105,000 and $104,000 respectively, with ranges exceeding 400 miles. Both offer traditional luxury car interiors with high-end materials and advanced driver information features. The BMW iX is a luxury SUV starting around $85,000 with 380 miles of range.

The Porsche Taycan is a performance sedan starting around $80,000 with 287 miles of range. It is designed for speed and handling rather than maximum range, and appeals to drivers who want sports car performance without an engine. The Lucid Air is an ultra-luxury sedan starting around $69,900 with up to 516 miles of range—the longest of any production EV currently sold.

Electric trucks and vans

The Ford F-150 Lightning is a full-size pickup truck starting around $55,000 with 240 to 320 miles of range depending on battery size. It has a traditional truck bed, can tow up to 14,000 pounds, and charges at home or at public stations. The Chevrolet Silverado EV is coming to market in 2024 with similar capabilities and pricing.

The Rivian R1T is a premium pickup truck starting around $71,000 with 270 to 420 miles of range. It has a unique "gear tunnel" storage compartment and can tow up to 14,000 pounds. The Rivian R1S is a three-row SUV version starting around $75,000 with similar range and towing capacity.

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is an electric minivan launching in 2024 with an estimated 260 miles of range and seating for up to seven. It is designed to appeal to families and has a retro design inspired by classic VW buses. The Kia EV9 is a three-row electric SUV starting around $55,000 with up to 304 miles of range.

Used electric vehicles and what to watch for

Used EVs typically cost 30 to 50 percent less than new models of the same year. A 2020 Tesla Model 3, for example, might cost $25,000 to $30,000 used versus $38,000 new. Used Nissan Leafs from 2015 to 2018 are common and inexpensive, though their batteries degrade faster than newer models and may have lost 20 to 30 percent of original capacity after 100,000 miles.

Battery health is the main concern with used EVs. Most modern EV batteries retain 80 to 90 percent of their capacity after 100,000 to 150,000 miles, and degradation slows after that point. Manufacturers typically warranty batteries for 8 years or 100,000 miles, and some cover up to 10 years or 150,000 miles. When shopping used, ask the seller or dealer for the battery health report if available, or budget for a pre-purchase inspection by an EV specialist.

Charging equipment and home installation costs are not included in the vehicle price. A basic Level 2 home charger costs $500 to $2,500 installed and adds 25 to 30 miles of range per hour of charging. Public charging is often free or costs $2 to $5 per session, though some networks charge by the minute or kilowatt-hour.

How to compare electric vehicles by range and charging speed

Range varies based on battery size, driving conditions, and weather. EPA estimates (the official U.S. standard) are listed on the window sticker of new vehicles and on manufacturer websites. Real-world range is often 10 to 20 percent lower in cold weather and higher on highways with steady speeds. If you drive 50 miles daily, a vehicle with 250 miles of range will charge once every five days at home.

Charging speed depends on the charger type and the vehicle's onboard equipment. Level 1 (standard household outlet) adds 2 to 5 miles of range per hour and is impractical for regular use. Level 2 (240-volt home or public charger) adds 25 to 30 miles per hour. DC fast charging (available at public stations) adds 150 to 200 miles in 20 to 30 minutes, though charging slows as the battery approaches full capacity.

Most EV owners do 90 percent of their charging at home overnight and use public chargers only for road trips or when home charging is unavailable. If you have a driveway or garage, home charging is the most convenient and cheapest option. If you park on the street or in an apartment lot, public charging becomes more important to your decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest electric vehicle I can buy new?

The Chevrolet Bolt EV starts around $26,000 to $27,000 new, making it the lowest-priced new EV from a major automaker. The Nissan Leaf starts around $28,000. Both offer over 240 miles of range and are available at most dealerships. Prices vary by location and current incentives.

How long does it take to charge an electric vehicle at home?

A Level 2 home charger (240-volt) takes 6 to 10 hours to fully charge most EVs from empty. A standard household outlet (Level 1) takes 24 to 48 hours. Most owners charge overnight and start each day with a full battery, so they rarely need a full charge during the day.

Can I take a road trip in an electric vehicle?

Yes. Most modern EVs have 250 to 400 miles of range, and DC fast chargers along highways can add 150 to 200 miles in 20 to 30 minutes. Road trips take longer than in gas cars because of charging stops, but the network is expanding rapidly. Tesla's Supercharger network is the most established, though other networks like Electrify America are growing.

Do electric vehicles work in cold weather?

Yes, but range decreases 20 to 40 percent in freezing temperatures because the battery is less efficient and the cabin heater uses battery power. A vehicle rated for 300 miles might go 180 to 240 miles in winter. Preheating the cabin while plugged in at home helps, as does using seat warmers instead of cabin heat.

What is the difference between a plug-in hybrid and a full electric vehicle?

A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) has both a battery and a gas engine, and can run on electricity alone for 20 to 50 miles before the engine starts. A full electric vehicle (EV) has only a battery and no engine. PHEVs are useful if you want to avoid gas for daily driving but need the engine for long trips. Full EVs require planning for charging but have lower fuel and maintenance costs.