Affordable EV Cars

Affordable EV cars are more affordable than ever, but they still tend to be pricier than gasoline models. Fortunately, several 2024 zero-emission cars are available for shoppers with modest budgets.

Among the most accessible are Kia’s EV6 Light and its big brother, the Niro EV, which both start at just over $40,000. These two electric crossovers combine a distinctive appearance with a roomy interior, agile handling, and neck-snapping acceleration. Both also offer a lengthy driving range and are eligible for the $7,500 federal tax credit for EVs.

Other budget-minded EVs include the Nissan Leaf, Hyundai’s Kona and Ioniq, and the Volkswagen ID.4. The latter, which offers a sporty drive and top-tier DC fast charging capability, is likely to see competition from the upcoming Tesla Model Y. That small SUV is expected to be the first of a series of EVs aimed at the beginner EV competitive set.

Affordable and Eco-Friendly: Affordable EV Cars

Shoppers interested in buying a used EV should note that battery degradation can significantly shorten an EV’s driving range over time. This is especially true for lithium-ion batteries, which can lose as much as 2.3% of their capacity per year.

If you want to limit the impact of this issue, consider buying a new car with a smaller battery pack and a longer driving range. Or, check out this article on how to extend an EV’s battery life. In addition, take care of options and upgrades, which can have a significant effect on an EV’s fuel efficiency. For example, larger wheels may be aesthetically pleasing, but they’ll also reduce an EV’s driving range and charging speed.