6 Affordable Electric Vehicles with Better Value Than Elon Musk’s Tesla
Written by
Yaël Bizouati-Kennedy
Edited by
Cory Dudak
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Elon Musk’s Tesla cars are probably the most well-known electric vehicles (EVs), thanks mostly to the company’s founder’s fame and the tremendous publicity and aura around his brand.
Indeed, the Tesla model Y was the best selling EV in the world as of December 2023, according to CleanTechnica. Yet some experts argue that other EVs have a better value and buyers who are “electric-curious” might want to explore other brands.
Here are some alternatives with better value, according to experts:
1. Hyundai IONIQ 5
Price: Starting at $44,000 (according to Car and Driver).
According to CleanTechnica, this car almost matches Tesla’s Model Y in terms of comfort, 200+ mile range and quick charging speed.
Now, in terms of drawbacks, the Hyundai uses the CCS charging standard, “which (for now) limits its access to all but the very newest Tesla ‘Magic Dock’ chargers,” according to CleanTechnica.
2. Polestar 2 RWD
Price: Mid-high $40,000 (according to CleanTechnica).
The Polestar 2 and Tesla Model 3 are “remarkably similar vehicles,” noted CleanTechnica, noting that both vehicles have starting prices in the mid-high $40,000 range and go between 265 and 270 miles on a full charge.
3. Volkswagen ID.4
Price: Starting at $41,160 (according to Car and Driver).
While this model has a lower price than similarly sized rivals, it provides an estimated range of just 209 miles, according to Edmunds. “That’s short but should be sufficient if you charge at home every day and don’t take long road trips.”
Yet, it also includes several features, such as a 12-inch center touchscreen, wireless smartphone connectivity, heated front seats and a wireless smartphone charger, added Edmunds.
4. Rivian R1T
Price: Starting at $79,000 (according to Kelley Blue Book).
This pick-up truck has “clean lines, oodles of utility with a frunk and ‘gear tunnel,’ and a near luxury-car interior,” according to Yahoo Finance.
In addition, the dual motor version of the truck is coming later this year, including more than 600hp and 270 miles of range with the standard battery pack.
5. Nissan Leaf
Price: Starting at $28,140 (according to Nissan).
At under $30,000, this car is “proof that an electric vehicle can be affordable,” according to Car and Driver.
While the car has a shorter range with slower charging, if your travel needs are close and local, this car is a good fit, Car and Driver added.
6. Kia EV9
Price: Starting at $54,900 (according to Kia).
This vehicle offers “superior build quality, a better warranty, and a fresh new look compared to the aging Model X,” according to CleanTechnica.
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