There’s no mistake – electric vehicles have gone mainstream, with models in all shapes, sizes and prices. These EVs are under $35,000, making them affordable as well as eco-friendly.
Some include safety features as standard not usually found at this low price and up to 258 miles per full charge.
A $7,500 federal tax credit, makes some even less expensive, although not all qualify.
And 2023 models are a great bargain now, as dealers need to make room for the 2024 models.
2023 Chevrolet Bolt – $26,500
There are two models – an EV sedan and an SUV, which Chevrolet is calling an EUV, for electric utility vehicle.
The 2023 Bolt EV is the least expensive new EV in the USA, with a starting price of $26,500, which is $5,900 less than the 2022 model.
It has a range of 259 miles, and a list of standard features not often found at this price. Those include LED exterior lighting, heated side mirrors and keyless entry.
If you want more space, the EUV offers that, for a starting price of $27,800. But the larger, heavier size costs battery range – 247 miles, 12 less than the smaller, lighter, less expensive sedan.
But why quibble over 12 miles – either version of the Bolt offers far better battery range than its competitors and at a lower price.
Plus – both Chevrolet Bolt models qualify for up to a $7,500 tax credit, making them less expensive still.
If you want a Bolt, buy one now. GM has announced it will stop building the Bolt to concentrate on larger and more profitable EV cars and trucks, including a new $100,000 electric version of the Corvette, the E-Ray..
- Bottom line – You can’t go wrong with either vehicle, which are the two least expensive EVs available today.
2023 Nissan Leaf – $28,040
The best-selling Leaf was the first mass-market EV, introduced shortly after Toyota turned many of us into hybrid fans with the Prius.
The Leaf is being phased out, in favor of the new, larger and absolutely gorgeous Nissan Ariya EV, which is available in a technology-busting all-wheel-drive model.
While the Leaf used to be a short-range-only EV, the 2023 model starts with 149 miles of range, and there’s an upgrade for a segment-busting 212 miles.
The base Leaf S includes smartphone integration, LED taillights, and generous standard safety features.
- Bottom line – While it’s inexpensive, consider that its resale value down the road likely will be impacted once it’s no longer produced.
2023 Mini Cooper SE Hardtop — $30,900
Get all of the Mini personality at an affordable pricetag.
Unfortunately, the Mini Cooper EV provides only a paltry 114 miles of electric range.
That is enough for a daily local commute or errands, but not a round-trip to Grandma’s house, if she lives more than 50 miles away and doesn’t have a charger.
That said, this Mini can recharge maxi when hooked up to a Level 3 fast-charger, which provides 80% power in just over 30 minutes.
- Bottom line – You might want to wait for the 2024 version, with a reported 240-mile battery range and more power.
2023 Hyundai Kona Electric — $33,550
This affordable EV sedan packs utility and comfort into an efficient electric platform with an impressive 258 miles of range.
It’s almost forgotten, totally overshadowed by the award-winning Hyundai Ionic 5 and Ionic 6 models – which are not under the $35,000 threshhold.
Even Kona EV Base models include wireless smartphone integration, cloth upholstery, heated front seats and driver-assist features not usually found at this price level, including a large 12.3 inch navigation/entertainment screen.
The Kona also is available as a traditional gas-powered model and a hybrid electric (HEV)
- Bottom line – Great features for the price, and stylish, too.
ecoXplorer Evelyn Kanter is a journalist with 20+ years of experience as a newspaper and magazine writer, radio & TV news producer & reporter, and author of guidebooks and smartphone apps – all focusing on travel, automotive, the environment and your rights as a consumer.
ecoXplorer Evelyn Kanter currently serves as President of the International Motor Press Assn. (IMPA) and is a former Board Member of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW)
Contact me at evelyn@ecoxplorer.com.
Copyright (C) Evelyn Kanter
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