Are you thinking about buying your first electric car? It can be tough to pick the right one. There are so many choices, and prices can be high. But don’t worry! We’re here to help.
Did you know that many new electric cars now cost less than $40,000? That’s great news for first-time buyers. In this blog, we’ll show you the top 10 cheap electric cars that are perfect for newbies.
These cars are good for your wallet and the planet. Ready to find your dream electric car? Let’s go!
Nissan Leaf
The Nissan Leaf is a top pick for first-time EV buyers. It’s super cheap, starting at just $28,140 for the 2025 model. That’s the lowest price on our list! The Leaf can go 149 to 212 miles on a single charge, which is great for daily trips.
Plus, you can save even more money with a $3,750 tax credit on the 2024 model.
But the Leaf isn’t perfect. Its charging tech is a bit old. Still, it’s a good deal when you think about all the costs. You’ll save on gas and get tax breaks too. Want to know if it’s right for you? Take it for a spin! A test drive is the best way to see if you like how it feels on the road.
Chevrolet Bolt EV
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is a top pick for first-time electric car buyers. It costs less than $40,000, making it easy on the wallet. This car can go far on a single charge and charges up quickly.
It’s also very safe, which is great for new EV drivers. The best part? You can save even more money with federal tax credits.
The Bolt EV is a budget-friendly gateway to electric driving.
Chevy made sure the Bolt EV is cheap to keep running. You’ll spend less on upkeep than you would with a gas car. Plus, you might get extra savings from local deals. If you want a good EV that won’t break the bank, the Bolt EV is worth a look.
It’s a smart choice for anyone new to electric cars.
Mini Cooper SE
Moving from the Chevy Bolt, let’s check out another cool electric car. The Mini Cooper SE is a fun little ride that won’t break the bank. It starts at just $30,900, which is great for first-time EV buyers.
This two-door hatchback packs a punch with its 181-hp electric motor, making it zippy around town.
The Mini Cooper SE can go 114 miles on a full charge. That’s perfect for city driving or short trips. Need to juice up fast? No problem! This car can get to 80% battery in only 36 minutes.
While it doesn’t get federal tax credits, you might find some state deals to help save money. Consider all costs when buying, like taxes and charging, to see if it fits your budget.
Hyundai Kona Electric
The Hyundai Kona Electric is a great choice for new EV buyers. It starts at $32,675, which is easy on the wallet. This car can go far too – up to 261 miles on a single charge. That’s enough for most daily trips and some longer ones.
The Kona Electric gets updates over the air, just like your phone. This keeps it fresh and up-to-date.
One cool thing about the Kona Electric is that it costs less to take care of than gas cars. You won’t need to change the oil or do as many tune-ups. Sadly, it’s not eligible for the federal tax credit.
But don’t let that stop you! It’s still a smart buy for anyone wanting to go electric without breaking the bank.
Kia Niro EV
Moving from the Hyundai Kona Electric, let’s check out another great option for first-time EV buyers. The Kia Niro EV is a top pick for those wanting to go electric without breaking the bank.
The Kia Niro EV starts at $39,600, which is pretty good for an electric car. It can go 253 miles on a single charge, perfect for daily drives. Safety is a big plus, with features like lane-keeping assist and blind-spot warnings.
Need to power small devices? No problem! The Niro EV can do that too. Charging is quick – it goes from 10% to 80% in just 45 minutes on a fast charger. For new EV buyers, the Kia Niro EV offers a lot of bang for your buck.
Volkswagen ID. 4
The Volkswagen ID.4 is a great choice for first-time EV buyers. It starts at $39,735, but you can save big with a federal tax credit. This could bring the price down to $32,235. The ID.4 can go far too.
It can drive between 206 to 291 miles on a single charge. That’s plenty for most daily trips.
Inside, the ID.4 is packed with cool stuff. Higher trims have a big 12.9-inch display and parking assist. Plus, you get a sweet deal with charging. Volkswagen gives you a three-year membership to Electrify America Pass+.
This means 500kWh of free charging. You can pick from different trims and battery options to fit your needs. The ID.4 makes going electric easy and fun.
Fiat 500e
The Fiat 500e is a cool new electric car for 2024. It costs $34,095 and comes with a free home charger. This little car can go 141-149 miles on a single charge. It’s the first electric car from Stellantis in the U.S. market.
The 500e has neat tech like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also keeps you safe with features like emergency braking.
This small EV is perfect for city driving. It’s easy to park and fun to zip around in. The 500e looks cute and stylish, just like its gas-powered cousin. But now it’s all-electric and better for the planet.
If you want an affordable EV that’s big on charm, the Fiat 500e might be your perfect match.
Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 is a great choice for first-time EV buyers. It starts at $38,990, which is easy on the wallet. This car can go far too – from 272 to 363 miles on a single charge.
That’s perfect for long trips or daily drives. Some versions of the Model 3 even qualify for tax credits, making it even cheaper.
Tesla makes owning this car fun and easy. You can use a mobile app to control your car. Plus, you get to use Tesla’s big network of Superchargers. Buying is simple too. Just put down $250 online, and they’ll bring the car to your home in about a month.
Inside, the Model 3 has cool features like a screen for back-seat riders and a big trunk for all your stuff.
Hyundai Ioniq 6
Looking for a cool electric car that won’t break the bank? Check out the Hyundai Ioniq 6! This sleek sedan starts at just $38,650. It can go far too – up to 361 miles on a single charge.
Cars.com even named it the Best Value EV for 2024.
The Ioniq 6 is fast and smart. Its special battery lets you charge from 10% to 80% in only 18 minutes. Even the base model can drive 240 miles before needing a charge. Inside, you’ll find lots of neat tech features that make driving fun and easy.
If you want a stylish electric car that’s easy on your wallet, the Ioniq 6 might be perfect for you!
Ford Mustang Mach-E
Moving from the Hyundai Ioniq 6, let’s check out another cool electric ride: the Ford Mustang Mach-E. This electric SUV starts at $39,995 for the 2024 model. It’s a fun car that can go far on one charge.
The basic model can drive 230 miles with its 72kWh battery. If you want to go even further, some models can travel up to 320 miles with a bigger 91kWh battery.
The Mach-E is a great pick if you like the Tesla Model Y but want something different. While it doesn’t get the federal tax credit, you might save money with state deals. Ford made this car to be sporty and comfy.
It’s perfect for folks who want an electric car that looks good and drives well. The Mach-E shows that electric cars can be exciting and practical at the same time.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing an Affordable EV
Picking an affordable EV can be fun and easy. Here are some key things to look at when you shop:
- Range: Check how far the car can go on one charge. More miles mean less worry about running out of power.
- Charging speed: Fast charging saves time. Look for cars that can charge quickly at public stations.
- Safety features: Choose a car with good crash test scores and driver assist tech.
- Total cost: Think about the price, tax breaks, and charging costs. EVs often cost less to run than gas cars.
- Local perks: Some cities give special parking or road access to EVs. Check what’s offered near you.
- Maintenance: EVs usually need less fixing than regular cars. This can save you money over time.
- Test drive: Try different cars to see which one feels best to drive.
- Tax credits: See if the car qualifies for the $7,500 federal tax credit. This can make it much cheaper.
- State rebates: Look into extra money back from your state. This can lower the price even more.
- Charging at home: Think about how you’ll charge at home. Some cars come with free home chargers.
Federal Tax Credit Eligibility for First-Time EV Buyers
Good news for first-time EV buyers! You might save big bucks on your new ride. The government offers a sweet deal: up to $7,500 off your taxes when you buy certain electric cars. The 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 and Chevrolet Equinox EV are top picks that get the full $7,500 credit.
But watch out! Not all EVs make the cut. The 2024 Fiat 500e, Hyundai Kona Electric, and 2023 Mini Cooper SE don’t get any tax love. The Nissan Leaf is in the middle, with a $3,750 credit for the 2024 model.
Don’t want a new car? No problem! Used EVs can also save you money. You might get up to $4,000 off if the car fits the rules. Leasing is another smart move. The dealer gets the tax credit, but they often pass the savings to you through lower monthly payments.
Some states even chip in to help you set up a charger at home. It’s a great time to go electric and keep more cash in your pocket. Now, let’s look at the key things to think about when picking your first affordable EV.
Bottom Line
Electric cars are great for first-time buyers. They cost less to run and help the planet. But choose carefully! Consider the total cost, not just the price tag. Factor in charging costs and tax breaks too.
Test drive different models to see what suits you best. Some good options are the Chevy Equinox EV and Hyundai Ioniq 5. They offer good range and fair prices. The right EV can save you money and make driving fun!
