Bridging the Gap with Charging Adapters

To make Tesla Superchargers compatible with their vehicles, Mercedes-Benz will offer a specialized adapter for $185, available through dealerships starting in February. This adapter will allow current Mercedes EV owners to connect to Tesla’s North American Charging System (NACS) plugs. While some competitors faced delays in making adapters available, Mercedes aims to avoid the same pitfalls by offering early and clear access to the technology.

A Shift Towards NACS Integration

Looking ahead, Mercedes-Benz plans to eliminate the need for adapters entirely. Starting with its 2024 production, the brand will include built-in NACS charging ports in all North American electric models. This aligns with an industry-wide shift as major automakers like Ford, General Motors, and Volvo also move toward integrating NACS into their EV lineups.

This direct access to Tesla’s Superchargers adds to the convenience of EV ownership. With charging times faster than many public alternatives, the network represents a major upgrade for those planning long trips or daily commutes.

The Current Mercedes-Benz EV Lineup

Mercedes-Benz already offers an excellent selection of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, appealing to a wide range of drivers. Here’s a look at some of the standout models:

• GLC and GLE Plug-in Hybrid SUVs: Ideal for drivers who want electric efficiency and long-range flexibility.
• EQB SUV: A compact but spacious SUV designed for urban and family use.
• EQE and EQS Sedans: Sleek and luxurious options for those who prioritize premium performance.
• EQS SUV and EQS Maybach: These top-tier SUVs offer unmatched comfort and cutting-edge technology.
• Electric G-Class: An all-electric version of the iconic G-Wagon, bringing off-road power to the EV world.

Expanding its EV charging capabilities helps Mercedes-Benz ensure that these models remain competitive in an evolving market.

What This Means for EV Owners

The inclusion of the Tesla Supercharger network is a game-changer for Mercedes-Benz drivers. The convenience of fast-charging infrastructure reduces range anxiety and makes road trips more feasible.

For current owners who don’t want to wait for built-in NACS compatibility, the adapter provides an immediate solution. Though some may not like the $185 price tag, it’s a small price to pay for access to one of the most extensive and reliable charging networks available.

Driving Toward a Fully Connected Future

As the EV market continues to grow, Mercedes-Benz’s partnership with Tesla’s Supercharger will make a real difference. Whether you’re exploring the latest models at a Mercedes-Benz dealership or planning a long-distance trip in your EQS SUV, the integration of NACS ports and access to Tesla’s Superchargers improves electric mobility. By prioritizing convenience and expanding charging access, Mercedes-Benz is ensuring its drivers stay charged.

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Electric vehicles aren’t brand new to the market and actually date back much further than you might expect. That said, it wasn’t until the last dozen years or so that EVs have become popular enough to require an infrastructure for recharging the batteries or the development of faster charging capabilities.

Here are some important things to know about EV charging that will help demystify the confusion surrounding these vehicles.

How many levels of charging are there?

Currently, there are three distinct levels of charging that can be used for most electric vehicles. In many cases, modern EVs won’t charge quickly or effectively using Level 1 charging, but its still part of the available charging network. Let’s take a look at all three charging levels to understand what they offer.

Level 1

The most basic form of EV charging is Level 1. This means using a regular household 120V outlet to charge your electric vehicle. This is the slowest way to charge any vehicle, but it is the most widely available and convenient way to replenish the batteries, especially if you only drive your vehicle a few times per week. The charging rate using a Level 1 plug is about two to four miles of additional range per hour. This is the least efficient way to charge your EV, but it could work for some drivers who don’t drive often.

Level 2

The most useful type of charging is what you can use at home. Level 2 charging utilizes a 240-volt outlet, which is the same power as your clothes dryer needs. In most cases, in order to effectively charge your EV at home, you need to have a Level 2 charging plug installed in your home that can be used when you need to replenish the batteries. Most automakers offer an included Level 2 charger with the purchase of an EV, but they don’t include installation of a new 240-volt plug that operates separately from your clothes dryer.

The movement toward electric vehicles is extremely dependent upon EV owners adding a Level 2 charging outlet to their homes. In general, a Level 2 charging system can replenish EV batteries overnight. You’ll need to consult an electrician to ensure your home’s electric panel can support your new EV charging setup.

You may also find Level 2 chargers in many public spaces, such as parking garages and parking lots. Other public chargers are Level 3, and you need to know the difference.

Level 3

Level 3 chargers are the quickest of all three systems and they are also known as DC fast-chargers. These chargers are extremely useful on long trips and make it possible to take EVs on road trips because of the fast charging time. The speed at which these chargers operate depends on the setup, which can add between 100 and 250 miles of additional range in 30-45 minutes. The higher voltage means you can’t charge to 100% of the battery’s capacity while attached to the Level 3 charger.

These DC fast chargers operate at as little as 50 kW and as much as 500 kW, depending on the EV and the charger. Once an EV battery reaches 80% of the full charge, a Level 3 charger changes and slows down considerably. This is done to prevent overheating and overcharging.

Most automakers advise charging only to 80% when using Level 2 and Level 3 chargers.

What about the connectors?

Most EVs come with different connectors that you can utilize based on the speed of the EV charging being done. Level 1 and Level 2 charging uses a standard round port, which is called a J1772 connector. There are a few different types of connectors being used for Level 3 charging, including CCS and NACS connectors. The NACS connector is becoming the standard across the industry.

Some EVs use the CHAdeMO connector, but this plug is becoming obsolete. Soon, the CCS will also be obsolete, and all EVs will utilize the same connector.

Is the infrastructure ready?

You’ve probably seen more EV Level 3 charging stations along your route, especially during road trips, but the infrastructure growth hasn’t kept up with the increased number of EVs on the road. Still, most electric vehicles charge at home using Level 2 chargers, which makes them useful for most driving needs. If you’re considering an electric vehicle, now you know a little more about how to charge it and the various types of charging available to you.

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The Prologue EV is the first of its kind from Honda. Similarly, the Ioniq 5 is the first electric SUV from the Hyundai brand. These two electric SUVs are part of the compact class, which makes it easy to drive when you need to carry up to five people with you, and you want a relatively affordable EV to drive and experience. Let’s look at some of the qualities of each model.

The Honda uses GM technology

Honda partnered with GM to utilize the Ultium battery platform from the Chevy Blazer EV, giving the Prologue the driving range and power necessary. This Honda EV offers the benefits of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which are no longer offered in GM EVs. You might find that the Prologue has a little more GM influence than you would like, considering it has some parts and features from the American brand.

The Ioniq 5 is becoming an important model

The Ioniq used to be offered in three different versions, only one of which was an all-electric model. Since 2022, the Ioniq 5 has been an electric vehicle that has won awards for its impressive build and style. This Hyundai EV has the value desired and qualities that can make this SUV easy to drive and enjoy. If you want impressive power and performance, the Ioniq 5 N packs up to 641 horsepower and has the handling to match, giving it the driving presence offered.

What Honda trims are offered?

The traditional Honda naming structure is present with the Prologue SUV. This means you’ll find the EX, Touring, and Elite trims that give you lots of great features. The base EX model comes well-equipped with heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and wireless smartphone charging. The Touring model might be worth the extra money when you see that it has leather upholstery, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and memory seat settings.
If you want the best driving range in the Prologue, you’ll want to stick with the FWD powertrain, which gives you 296 miles of driving range.

What’s new about the Hyundai EV?

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 looks much the same as it did last year. This new 2025 model has two available battery packs, which increase the maximum driving range with the larger battery pack. This Hyundai SUV now has the NACS charging port but still has a CCS adapter, which is part of the standard equipment offered. A new, rugged-looking XRT trim has been added to the mix to give you an off-road version that can be fun to take out on the trails.

What powers the Honda Prologue?

This Honda electric SUV can be had with either a single motor driving the front wheels that produces 212 horsepower or a dual-motor AWD setup that produces 288 horsepower. This EV might not be the most exciting on the road, but it has a good temperament and excellent road manners to make it an SUV that rides smoothly and steadily on every road. You’ll find an adjustable regenerative braking system to capture some braking power and send it back to the batteries.

What powers the Hyundai Ioniq 5?

The Ioniq 5 can be had at several power levels with different battery packs. The standard powertrain sends 168 horsepower to the rear wheels, but the larger battery pack gives you 225 horsepower for the drive desired. If you choose the AWD model, you’ll have 320 horsepower in the models that don’t wear an N badge.

Which EV has a better cabin?

Honda Prologue

The design and cabin build gives you a look that feels a lot like the Blazer EV but has many Honda additions to make it even more enticing than the electric SUV its based on. This impressive model has the look and feel you want, including an infotainment screen that looks and feels like other Honda models with a clutter-free design.

Hyundai Ioniq 5

The Hyundai electric SUV has a tech-savvy cabin with a digitized dashboard and tons of eco-friendly materials. This SUV can be had with a head-up display with an augmented reality that can project navigation directions on the windshield to give you the desirable features you want and need.

The Honda Prologue ahs a nice cabin and good power, but the Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers more options and brings a tech-rich environment to your drive. Which of these electric compact SUVs will you drive?

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As you might expect, the Sierra EV and Silverado EV are built on the same platform, but as has always been the case, the GMC truck has higher-class features and qualities to make it the more upscale truck for your driving experience. The first model year for the Sierra EV came late in the model-year cycle, which means it hasn’t been available for long, but now we’ll get a full year with this new electric truck.

A few updates for a newish truck

The 2025 version of this electric truck will have a smaller battery option to provide more choices than before. There will be new trims added later in the year, with the AT4 and Elevation models entering the lineup to give you more options when looking at this electric truck. This truck debuted last year with only a few choices, but a more affordable Extended Range version or the Denali trim has been added to the mix.

Until the new additions arrive, the Denali trim includes remote automatic parking and an upgrade to the 5G connection. New paint colors, including Dark Ember Tintcoat, Deep Ocean Metallic, Summit White, Onyx Black, and Moonlight Matte, are available this year, giving you several new colors to choose from.

The power you need in an electric truck

The GMC Sierra EV comes standard with a powerful setup in the Denali trim. This electric powertrain has motors at the front and rear wheels, giving you the benefits of AWD in every model. The motors produce 754 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque.

You’ll also have several other tricks up your sleeve with this truck including an air suspension that can raiser or lower the truck to give you the height you need when you get behind the wheel. The Sierra EV should also have the benefits of the Hummer Ev’s “Crab Walk” feature which allows the truck to drive diagonally thanks to the turning off the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels.

Admirable driving qualities

This electric pickup truck from GMC isn’t short on anything. You’ll find a variety of drive models that allow the Sierra to drive the way you want. This truck also features a one-pedal driving option, which utilizes the regenerative braking system to slow the truck when you lift of the accelerator. The Sierra EV is shockingly quick, pardon the pun, but that’s what you get when you drive an electric vehicle of any size.

Quick and capable, what more would you ask for?

The GMC Sierra EV in the Denali Edition 1 trim can hit 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. While that’s not as quick as the Hummer EV, which completed the sprint in 3.3 seconds, it’s still exciting and quick. This is an incredible number for a truck that weighs as much as the Sierra EV.

While the sprint time is admirable, you probably don’t need this truck to rocket off the line for you. Instead, you’re probably more interested in the towing capacity. The Sierra EV can tow up to 10,000 pounds and can be equipped with the ProGrade Trailering system, which gives you:

• An integrated trailer brake controller
• A hitch-view camera
• Trailer tire pressure sensors
• Trailer camera
• Blind-spot compatibility to the rear of the trailer

How far can you go?

If you want to drive this big and powerful truck for work, you need to know that it has you covered all day long. GMC offers this electric truck with an impressive driving range of 440 miles with the Max Range battery pack. If you need to add more range to the mix, it won’t take long. The Sierra EV can add up to 100 miles of range in 10 minutes using a Level 3 DC fast charging station. This means you can drive this truck all day long and keep working the way you would with a gas-powered Sierra.

One build for all

Every version of the GMC Sierra EV is a crew cab pickup with a six-foot bed. This should give you more than enough space for your whole family or work crew to enjoy the comfort offered inside this truck. There is a midgate function that expands the bed into the cabin to make it easier for you to carry longer items. You’ll also find a frunk where the gas engine would have resided, which means you’ve got all the cargo space you could ask for.

Will the new 2025 GMC Sierra EV become the electric truck you depend on every day?

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Hyundai Kona Electric – The Practical Electric Crossover

The Kona EV is a small crossover that offers a big dose of practicality and impressive range. The 2019 model is the current generation and has an electric motor that generates 201 horsepower and 291 pound-feet of torque. It comes with front-wheel drive and can go up to 258 miles on a full charge.

The tech in the Kona EV includes a 7-inch touchscreen that comes loaded with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If you get one of the higher trims, a larger touchscreen is one of the added benefits.

Ford Mustang Mach-E – Sporty Performance and Style

The Ford Mustang Mach-E is not only reliable but also fun. There are a lot of models to choose from, and you can get it with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Power ranges from 266 horsepower to 480, depending on the motor and battery pack. Every Mach-E has a 15.5-inch touchscreen that runs Ford’s Sync 4 infotainment system. It is well worth adding to your list of used cars to test drive.

Kia Niro EV – Lots of Space and Great Tech

The Kia Niro EV is another small SUV that’s not only reliable but offers family-friendly space and technology. The motor generates 201 horsepower and will go up to 239 miles on a full charge. If you need a quick charge, DC fast charging will give you up to 80 of the battery charge in just 75 minutes.

An 8-inch touchscreen comes in the lower trims with a 10.25-inch screen available. Satellite radio is available along with a Harman Kardon stereo system and wireless charging for your phone.

Chevy Bolt – Well-Rounded Compact EV SUV

The Chevrolet Bolt is a compact electric SUV. This practical electric SUV is efficient and fun, with an electric motor that generates 200 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. It quickly responds when you press on the accelerator, making it perfect for driving around town and when you need to merge and pass on the highway.

The Bolt may fit into the compact SUV market, but the cabin feels spacious. Even if you pile in four adults, everyone will feel like they have plenty of room to get comfortable.

Kia Soul EV—Funky and Spunky

If you like used cars with some personality and you want something reliable, consider a used Kia Soul EV. This Kia was available from 2015 to 2019 and is even more fun to drive than the non-turbo gas model. The electric motor generates 109 horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque, which is plenty for this small vehicle.

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Drivers are switching to electric cars, trucks, and SUVs in droves. Find out what you need to know about the 2024 Honda Prologue vs the competition before buying an EV SUV.

There are more EVs than ever on today’s roads, and leading automakers are adding options to the fray every year. We know all those choices can feel overwhelming. Direct comparisons can make deciding which car is right for you easier.

We’ll compare the Honda Prologue to other popular electric cars in its class to better understand whether Honda’s new EV SUV is the best fit for your lifestyle.

The Honda Prologue’s Standard Range Puts It Ahead of the Pack

People who have never owned EVs don’t always realize the importance of having one that offers sufficient range and fast charging times. Both these vehicles perform well, but the entry-level Honda Prologue goes further than the competition on every full charge.

The 2024 Honda Prologue has a standard range rating of 296 miles to the Tesla Model Y’s 260. These popular EV SUVs both beat the Ford Mustang Mach-E with a standard range battery, which gets just 230-250 miles.

The entry-level Hyundai Ioniq 5 has just 220 mi of range, while the Kia K6 gets 232 in its base form, while the Volkswagen ID.4 Standard has a range of 206. The Prologue is the clear winner when it comes to range. It also charges quickly, adding 65 miles on DC fast chargers in ten minutes.

Which EV Has the Most Upscale Cabin?

EVs are made for the modern world. Honda, Tesla, and other EV-focused automakers want you to remember that, but they remind you in very different ways. The Tesla Model Y embraces a minimalist aesthetic that looks futuristic but eliminates essential comforts. The Honda Prologue takes a different approach.

In the Honda Prologue, you’ll still get touches of comfort and luxury, like available leather cabin upholstery, a panoramic moon roof, wireless smartphone connectivity, a 7×3-inch head-up display, and more.

Other EV SUVs cover the basics. Most make advanced tech and driver-assistance features available only on the top models, and few offer the same level of cabin comfort. The Prologue is even slightly larger than the Model Y and other competitors, creating more passenger space.

Why Buy the 2024 Honda Prologue vs. the Competition?

Drivers have their choice of EV SUVs, so deciding whether the 2024 Honda Prologue is the best fit can be hard. For most, the Prologue’s advanced in-cabin and battery technology, premium materials, and thoughtful design make it a clear choice over other electric SUVs.

There’s a simple solution if you’re unsure whether the 2024 Honda Prologue is the best option for your needs, lifestyle, and budget. Head to a local Honda dealership to check out the Prologue and take it for a test drive. It takes only one trip behind the wheel for most people to make the right decision.

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What is the Renault 4 E-Tech more practical than? Its more practical than the 5 E-Tech hatchback. These two electric cars share 68% of their components with a larger and more practical body. The 4 E-Tech has a reasonable driving range, bidirectional charging, and ChatGPT integration. These are qualities that make electric vehicles more appealing to buyers, and the reasonable driving range could make this little Renault a good choice for many European drivers.

Something about these cars looks familiar

The E-Tech models are built to look similar to the classic city car models coming from this brand. If you’re not familiar with Renault, you might want to know that it’s been around for several decades. The Renault 5 from the 1970s is the car that these EVs are modeled after. The name was revived in some manner in the 1990s and now comes to the market as an electric vehicle, giving the European market a small crossover that signals back to the classic look of the 4L that was built from 1961 until 1994.

The 4L was a common sight

The small and popular Renault 4L was a common sight for many years. This little car could easily be found on roads in Europe, South America, and Africa. The recognizable shape was a hit and could be seen across these markets for more than thirty years. There were more than 8 million models of the 4L built, which makes building the new 4 E-Tech a practical choice. This new crossover is supposed to fill a position that makes it more practical than the 5 E-Tech hatchback, which means it should be more appealing to a much larger audience than the 5 E-Tech.

Keep in mind; its European

Before we get into the dimensions of the new Renault 4 E-Tech, you must keep in mind that this new EV is made for the European market. For the most part, vehicles in other markets are much smaller than those in the United States.

The 4 E-Tech is 163 inches long, which is about six inches shorter than the Chevy Bolt EUV. It comes with 7.1 inches of ground clearance and a trunk area that has 14.8 cubic feet of cargo space. This makes it larger than the 5 E-Tech but doesn’t make it a big vehicle by American standards.

Under the 4 E-Tech resides the same platform that underpins the hatchback 5 E-Tech model. This platform is a bespoke EV platform that’s made for these small and useful EVs.

What powers this new Renault EV?

This new electric crossover could easily fit in the American market as a subcompact crossover. It adheres to some of the same qualities that we find in this vehicle class in our market. The new 4 E-Tech is only offered as an FWD model that comes with one of two power offerings. The base version has 121 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, while the higher version produces 148 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. The more powerful version can reach 62 MPH in 8.5 seconds, and both have top speeds that are limited to 93 MPH.

Driving range based on the battery pack?

The battery size in an EV contributes to its driving range. The Renault 4 E-Tech is rated on the European WLTP range rating. When this electric vehicle is equipped with the 40-kWh battery pack, it can deliver up to 186 miles of driving range. If this vehicle has the larger 52-kWh battery pack, that driving range is increased to 250 miles.

Both battery packs can charge from 15% to 80% in about 30 minutes at a DC fast charging station. When plugged into a Level 2 charger, the 4 E-Tech’s battery can be charged from 10% to full in about four and a half hours.

Additional usefulness from Renault

The two Renault electric vehicles have bidirectional charging capability of up to 11 kW, which is enough to run small appliances and tools. These vehicles can also return energy to the grid but aren’t capable of powering your entire home. Renault also equips these vehicles with a heat pump that helps warm the cabin more efficiently in the winter while allowing the vehicle to keep its battery pack at the optimum operating temperature.

Looking inside, you’ll see that both EVs have nearly identical setups with a 10-inch central display screen and a 9-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. The ChatGPT integration should allow the infotainment system to answer more complex voice commands.

The new Renault 4 E-Tech cross the stage at the Paris motor show and should be part of the new 2025 model year offering for this brand.

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In America, the Ford F-150 Lightning captures the spirit of one of the country’s most iconic pickups. Ford is bringing the same energy to Europe with the new all-electric Capri. Pulling its inspiration from the 1970s sports coupe, the iconic car is back in a new form.

Ford’s Newest EV Resurrects an Older Name

Many drivers are old enough to remember the original Ford Capri of the 1970s and ‘80s. While this new iteration is a far cry from the old European pony car, it is true to its heritage. Think of it as what drivers in the 1970s would have expected the Capri to become.

The original Capri was a sports coupe, and the new all-electric model holds onto some of the same athletic nature. With 210 kW of power and 545 Nm of torque, the RWD Capri harnesses the power of electricity to bolt from 0-100 in 6.4 minutes.

The 2024 Ford Capri also holds onto some of the original sports car’s rebellious nature. With colors like Vivid Yellow and Blue My Mind, it’s attention-grabbing in the best way possible.

The 2024 Ford Capri is Also Thoroughly Modern

Modern drivers will appreciate that the Capri doesn’t have to sacrifice efficiency for power. They’ll get sports car acceleration and a driving range of over 620 km. The base model RWD Capri extended range can charge from 10-80% in 28 minutes on a DC fast charger. Along with its spacious cabin and luxurious interior features, this EV’s range and quick charging time make it a fantastic car for weekend getaways.

Drivers who want a little more from their EV sports cars will find it in the Capri Premium. The Capri Premium AWD extended range charges from 10-80% in 26 minutes and accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds.

Ford also embraces the modern era in their newest electrified offering by utilizing 12 ultrasonic sensors, five cameras, and 3 radars to create the ultimate driver assistance system. It’s a joy to drive with Assisted Lane Change, Clear Exit Warning, and other features.

A Look Inside the 2024 Ford Capri

The cabin of the 2024 Ford Capri has a minimalist yet luxurious feel with premium materials and advanced technology. The SYNC Move 14.6-inch center screen slides up and down, and smartphone users can integrate them seamlessly with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android
Auto.

Drivers will also notice premium features like an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, connected navigation, dual-zone automatic temperature control, and heated seats, which all come standard.

How Does It Compare to Other Ford EVs Like the F-150 Lightning?

The Capri has plenty in common with other Ford electric vehicles, including the Explorer and F-150 Lightning. While, stylistically, it shares many of the same design cues with the Explorer EV, all of these electric models are powerful, efficient and designed for the new electric era. The Ford Capri is perfect for families and eco-conscious individuals, while the Ford F-150 Lightning is the world’s new favorite EV workhorse.

Unfortunately, while the Ford F-150 Lightning is already available in parts of Europe, the automaker has no plans to introduce the Capri EV to American markets.

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Tesla’s Story

Tesla began the EV market as we know it today and the company remains the strongest seller of EV models in the world. From China, BYD is close, but nothing in the United States compares. The Tesla Model Y is currently the world’s best-selling vehicle. Alongside the compact SUV, the Model 3 sedan is the second most popular. Higher-end models include the Model S sedan and the Model X SUV. Most recently, the Cybertruck has captured the imaginations of EV buyers.

Rivian’s Story

Several EV startups have tried to take on Tesla and gain success, but only a few have managed to produce a large number of vehicles and get them to customers. Rivian is one of those. The California company began in 2009 and in 2021 it launched its first vehicle, the Rivian R1T pickup truck. It was the first electric pickup of the modern EV era. Rivian followed that with the R1S, a big SUV based on the same platform. Rivian also makes a delivery van for Amazon, one of its original investment backers.

Comparing Rivian and Tesla Vehicles

Tesla’s trademark is mostly medium-sized sedans and SUVs, while Rivian is going after buyers who want larger vehicles with off-road ability. Rivian’s brand description embraces the outdoors. Both Tesla and Rivian vehicles are packed with cutting-edge and thoughtful features.

For example, the R1T has a nifty gear tunnel where you can stash items between the cab and bed. The Rivian truck and SUV have a choice of four motors, an adjustable height suspension, and multiple drive modes for taking on rough terrain.

On the other hand, Tesla’s vehicles are strongly geared toward urban and suburban driving. They’re designed to deliver on-road performance, and that’s especially true if you look at a sporty model like the Model S Plaid. There is some overlap between the two brands, including modern technology and design simplicity.

Both Rivian and Tesla have done away with physical buttons, which is cool on one front, but frustrating when you need to use the touchscreen simply to change the air vent direction.

Buying a Tesla or Rivian

One perk of buying either a Tesla or a Rivian is that you can order easily online. Both companies reject the traditional dealership model and instead sell their models directly to customers via their websites. This easy ordering method makes both companies feel distinctly modern and it may even represent the future of the auto industry.

Which Should You Choose?

It’s difficult to say that one brand is heads and tails better than the other as they both appeal to different consumers. If a truck or a large SUV with impressive off-road chops is your preference, then Rivian beats Tesla easily. However, Rivian doesn’t have an answer for Tesla’s sportier offerings either. So, it largely depends on what you want.

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*Prices may vary depending on location, vehicle condition, and other aspects.

Chevrolet Bolt EV

Leading the charge in affordability, the Chevrolet Bolt EV is an excellent option for drivers looking for an electric vehicle that offers value and range. With a starting price that dips below $30,000 at your local Chevrolet dealer, this compact hatchback provides up to 259 miles of driving on a single charge, making it ideal for both city commuting and weekend road trips. The Bolt’s roomy interior, intuitive tech features, and impressive cargo space make it a versatile option for those who want a practical yet fun-to-drive EV.

Even though the Chevrolet Bolt EV isn’t currently in production, it’s still a smart buy if you can find a used or certified pre-owned model at a Chevrolet dealer. The Bolt is known for its reliability, so even if it is only a few years old, it remains one of the best budget-friendly EVs on the market.

Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf has long been a popular choice for those venturing into the world of electric vehicles. With models available well under $30,000, the Leaf offers up to 226 miles of range, depending on the configuration. While it may not boast as much range as some competitors, the Leaf’s affordability, user-friendly technology, and strong reliability make it a fantastic option for budget-conscious drivers. Its compact size is perfect for city driving, and with a variety of trims available, there’s a Leaf to suit just about anyone’s needs.

Kia Soul EV

The Kia Soul SUV has always been known for its quirky design and spacious interior, but the electric version brings a whole new level of appeal. Priced affordably in the used market, the Kia Soul EV offers a fun driving experience with around 243 miles of range. Its boxy design allows for ample cargo space, and the Soul EV comes packed with advanced tech features, including a user-friendly infotainment system and active safety features. This makes it a strong contender for families and anyone who values a bit more room in their EVs.

Hyundai Ioniq 5

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a great option for those seeking an affordable yet stylish EV. Its futuristic design, spacious interior, and competitive driving range make it a standout in the EV market. Even in the pre-owned category, a lightly used Ioniq 5 can be found for under $30k, offering cutting-edge features and excellent performance. With its fast-charging capability and a range of up to 303 miles, this vehicle proves that affordable EVs can be both high-tech and highly
capable.

Toyota bZ4X

For those who want the reliability of a Toyota combined with the benefits of electric power, the Toyota bZ4X offers a great solution. This compact SUV provides an impressive range of up to 252 miles and includes Toyota’s well-known safety and driver assistance technologies. While it’s a newer model, you can still find pre-owned versions hovering just below the $30,000 price point, making it a solid option for anyone interested in a long-term investment in EV technology.

Go Green; Save Green With These Affordable EVs

Affordable electric vehicles are no longer a rarity, and options like the Chevrolet Bolt EV prove you can get a reliable, efficient, and fun-to-drive EV without spending a fortune. Whether you visit a Chevrolet dealer or explore other brands, there’s a wide range of budget-friendly EVs that will meet your needs while helping you reduce your carbon footprint.

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