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Electric Cars Info Guide
Thinking about buying an electric car? The first step is researching the latest news and browsing through some accurate reviews about the different types of battery powered EV models.
This section will help beginners learn which EVs are available in 2024 and how to find the best electric vehicle to suit your particular lifestyle.
Basic Information about Electric Vehicles
Simply put, automobiles driven on the highways that get their power from an electric battery and/or motor will be one of the following;
- Battery Electric Vehicle (BEVs get all their power from an electric battery and most can accommodate fast charging).
- Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEVs produce low-emissions due to the electric motor that assists a gas-powered engine).
- Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEVs are like hybrid cars but they will have a large battery and an electric motor).
No matter whether you buy one of the battery electric cars, an electric car, or one of the modern all-electric cars, at least one electric motor will propel it (e.g. using energy stored inside batteries).
So, what are some of the main differences between electric vehicles and those powered by an internal combustion engine (ICE)? EVs are much quieter and they have no exhaust emissions... meaning they generally produce lower emissions.
Furthermore, owning and running a modern electric vehicle (e.g. fueling and maintenance costs) should be less expensive than the equivalent ICE car.
Charging Plug-In Electric Vehicles
In most cases, you will be able to charge your electric car at a charging station. This has become easier now that companies are installing charging stations at domestic properties as well as in the usual public areas (e.g. from the electric grid).
As a result, some countries have also introduced legislation to gradually end the sales of cars that run on fossil-fuel. The main objective for doing so is to reduce the effects of air pollution.
Which leads us to...:
Early EV models boasting widespread adoption included the Nissan Leaf and the Mitsubishi i-MiEV. Yet, the Tesla Model 3 was the first electric car to achieve one million sales (globally).
Before You Buy an Electric Car
If you've decided to buy an electric vehicle you are not alone. In fact, the number of new EVs becoming available for ownership is increasing at a fast pace - with more than thirty unique models released in the first few months of 2022.
Nonetheless, the range (e.g. how far you will be able to travel before you need to recharge it) is likely to be your first major consideration.
Second, refuelling an EV might result in you having to make some basic home improvements to facilitate charging an electric vehicle.
But wait - there's more...
Some of the newest electric car models are 'relatively' expensive (e.g. those that fall into the luxury niche). You can use the list of EVs below as a buying guide. The basic information will help you find the best value-for-money electric vehicle that suits your budget and lifestyle.
Electric Vehicles List (EVs)
JEEP® AVENGER
So, an iconic American automobile marque has produced its first-ever battery electric vehicle.
As a result, there is a lot of anticipation and eagerness for insider information after it was voted European Car of the Year for 2023.
Check out our Jeep® Avenger review as we take the lid off and find out exactly why this electric hatchback aims to become a world leader in electrified SUVs, including the United Kingdom.
Cheapest Electric Vehicles
NISSAN LEAF
With a starting price around £21,990, you might consider the Nissan Leaf as being the cheapest electric vehicle available for purchase.
Moreover, 149 to 226 miles is the estimated range stated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and it is eligible for federal plug-in tax credit (USA).
The innovative small 2011 four-door hatchback model was among the first of the fully electric vehicles available when they rolled it out in North America.
Some of the improvements achieved over the last ten years, such as the fast-charging port and portable 240-volt Level 2 charging cable, have increased its range with various other safety features. Similarly, its sibling - the Nissan Leaf Plus - boasts a larger 62-kWh battery that provides it with a longer range.
Tip: Even though an EV tyre is still black and round, the special custom-made tyres used for electric vehicles can extend the driving range, save battery life, and reduce road noise.
MINI COOPER SE
The starting price for the Mini Cooper SE is around £29,500. It has an estimated range of 114 miles and it qualifies for federal plug-in tax credit (USA).
Buying a Cooper SE Hardtop used to be the cheapest way to buy an electric car (EV) in America. Yet, the Nissan Leaf 2022 has since undercut the cost of BMW's two-door, four-seat hatchback.
Most electric vehicles reviews won't hesitate to point out the 'relatively' limited range of the MINI. But, motorists looking for a cheap way to conduct their daily commute may find this sporty model ideal.
With its sporty looks and driving manners, 181-hp electric motor (good for 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds) and small size, the Cooper SE Hardtop could appeal to shoppers looking for a fun urban runabout or second car.
The 181-hp electric motor is capable of 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds and it will take around four (4) hours to charge the 32.6-kWh battery with 7.4 kilowatts of AC on a Level 2 home or public charger.
Note: Another section contains a review of the MINI Electric concept car when BMW first revealed it at the Frankfurt Auto show in 2017.
ADVENTURE 1 EV
Are you looking for an all-terrain buggy to use in places where road and trail don't exist?
If so, the new overland mini EV could be the solution.
There's only one way to describe the Adventure 1 (an ORV being released for pre-order by Potential Motors), and that's 'unconventional'.
So, our review of the Potential Motors Adventure 1 compact off-road recreational vehicle explains how this mini EV explores land beyond the highways.
MUNRO MARK 1 SUV
Munro Vehicles released more information about the new Mark 1 all electric 4x4 off road SUV being designed and manufactured in Scotland.
The company that makes Munro Vehicles was first incorporated as an automotive startup in Glasgow back in 2019.
As a result, the first offering from the company is a fully electric 4x4 rugged off-roader.
The Munro® will be carrying people and equipment through some of the most precipitous terrain in the United States.
This Munro Mark 1 EV 4x4 review explains why some farmers are keen to buy the new unmistakable hummer-like rugged off roader when their diesel run-around needs replacing.
SPARTAN EV 4X4
Sooner or later it had to happen and now the waiting is over.
A new affordable all-electric 4x4 off-roader has gone on sale in the United Kingdom.
We shouldn't always judge by appearances. But, it's fair to say the body shape is very much like the Mercedes G-Class models.
Our review of the Spartan Electric 4x4 2.0 contains information about the rural workhorse built by the Czech firm, Maurice Ward Motors (MWM).
SWINCAR E-SPIDER
The SWINCAR 4WD electric off road buggy is a new innovative cross-country vehicle.
It is creating a bit of a stir in the United Kingdom - mostly due to it's unique harmony with nature.
You could see it as a new way of driving, especially through hills and valleys.
This review of the SWINCAR e-Spider quadricycle explains how to peacefully explore all terrains and respect the environment at the same time.