The EV market is on the verge of an historic tipping point. New regulatory targets are forcing manufacturers to produce more EVs, and the consumer mindset is shifting toward sustainable mobility.
EVs have zero tailpipe emissions and can save consumers money on fuel, maintenance costs, and repair bills. In addition, they spare communities health-harming air pollution and associated hospital visits.
1. The Tesla Model X
The Model X is Tesla’s showstopping SUV with a 330-mile range, fast acceleration and seating for seven. It has a few unique features like Falcon Wing doors that set it apart from competitors.
But it could lose appeal over time as competitors improve their products with better battery tech. Still, the Tesla Model X might find a niche in providing batteries for electric jets.
2. The Nissan Leaf
When the first Nissan LEAF hit the market in 2010, some didn’t believe its vision of a zero-emission electric vehicle. But ten years later, the LEAF is still the best-selling electric car in the world.
Its 62 kWh battery can do 226 miles on a charge, and the company’s new EV platform offers even more range with future improvements to energy density.
3. The Chevrolet Bolt
The Bolt has been a solid entrant into the world of electric vehicles. Unfortunately, GM’s first modern EV is not selling well enough to be profitable.
During an earnings call, GM CEO Mary Barra confirmed that Chevy is working on a second generation of the Bolt. This is a good thing. Hopefully it’s better looking than the current model.
4. The Hyundai Kona Electric
The second-generation Kona Electric takes on a bigger role in Hyundai’s lineup. The company says it fills a “critical gap” in its EV stable by offering more comprehensive features and higher driving range than competitors at a more affordable price.
The electric SUV delivers linear power that feels natural, but it’s no speed demon. Its 270-mile range should cover most commuters’ travel needs.
5. The Kia Niro EV
The Kia Niro EV is a 2023 model that was redesigned with range and charging in mind. It is a spacious SUV that competes well with vehicles like the Skoda Enyaq and Peugeot e-2008.
Kia is typically praised for its user-friendly infotainment interface, and the Niro EV follows suit. Its ride height is slightly higher than most competitors, but it still feels fairly low for easy in-and-out access.
6. The Genesis GV60
Hyundai’s luxury spin-off is a late but worthy contender in the electric car game. Its GV60 is built on the company’s advanced Electric Global Modular Platform.
It has the kind of long range and rapid charging speeds premium buyers crave. It also boasts a sophisticated cabin and a shift-by-wire Crystal Ball gear selector. It’s compatible with Level 3 fast-charging stations capable of 350 kW, meaning recharging from 10 to 80 percent takes just 18 minutes.
7. The Buick Electra
Buick sales are a little anemic of late, but the Electra could change all that. GM plans to have every brand under its umbrella offer competitive electric vehicles by 2030, and the Electra could be one of them.
The Electra is based on the Ultium platform, which also underpins the Cadillac Lyriq. It shares its snub nose, short rear and panoramic greenhouse with the Caddy.
8. The Cadillac Celestiq
Small startups that focus on electric vehicles have an advantage in this burgeoning market. One such company is the California-based Canoo, which plans to launch its EV pickup truck in 2023.
Large SUVs and trucks are the most lucrative segment of the auto industry. GM and Cadillac are redefining the genre with the luxurious EV Celestiq. It aims to unite performance and range with its dual-motor, all-wheel drive setup and 640-horsepower output.
9. The Canoo Pickup Truck
The Canoo Pickup Truck is the latest product from EV startup Canoo, which went public last year via a merger with a special purpose acquisition company. The firm also makes a multipurpose delivery vehicle and lifestyle van based on the same skateboard-like platform.
The Canoo Pickup offers outsized cargo capacity on a small footprint. Prospective buyers can reserve one for just $100.
10. The Hyundai IONIQ
The Ioniq 5 is Hyundai’s first dedicated EV, and it uses an 800V battery architecture. The higher voltage yields a lower current, which reduces power loss.
EVs may own the fast lane with Porsche and Tesla whooshing by, but they’re also starting to become a regular sight on backroads and rugged terrain. Companies with big fleets are driving this shift as fuel and servicing costs plummet.