Electric cars are rapidly becoming more popular in the US. With rising gas prices and a societal push towards more eco-friendly vehicles, many drivers are now considering an electric car as their next purchase.
But with so many EV models available, it can be tough to determine which is truly the best. This article will break down the top electric cars in the US market right now based on range, performance, features and more.
Tesla Model 3/Model Y
No list of the best electric vehicles would be complete without mentioning Tesla. The automaker truly catalyzed the EV revolution and remains the segment leader in many respects. Tesla’s Model 3 sedan and Model Y crossover SUV are incredibly popular options that offer an outstanding blend of range, technology, performance and value.
Both models come available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive dual-motor configurations. Range spans from 272 to 358 miles depending on the battery size and drivetrain.
Acceleration is brisk, with most models capable of sprinting from 0-60 mph in under 5 seconds. Tesla’s big 15-inch central touchscreen puts navigation, entertainment and vehicle controls at your fingertips.
Over-the-air software updates allow these models to continually improve over time. And access to Tesla’s widespread Supercharger fast charging network enables convenient long-distance travel.
For an EV with generous range that still offers a sporty driving experience, cutting-edge tech and constant evolution via remote updates, the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y stand out as top choices. Their balance of strengths makes them compelling picks for many buyers seeking an electric daily driver.
Chevrolet Bolt EUV
The Chevrolet Bolt EUV provides an affordably priced EV option in a small crossover SUV form factor. This practical little runabout can travel up to 247 miles between charges, making it a great pick for suburban commuting and errands. DC fast charging capability further expands its usability for longer trips when needed.
Despite its budget-friendly pricing, the Bolt EUV doesn’t skimp on tech. The available Super Cruise hands-free driving assist feature enables relaxed highway travel, taking some of the burden off the driver.
A vibrant 10.2-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration manages navigation and entertainment duties. Factor in ample passenger and cargo space within its tidy footprint, and the Bolt EUV becomes a compelling urban explorer.
BMW i7
For pure electric luxury, the all-new BMW i7 makes a compelling statement. As BMW’s flagship EV sedan, the i7 boasts a high-class and carefully crafted cabin brimming with premium materials and unique high-tech features.
Artificial engine noise can be piped into the cabin for an enhanced driving experience. The available 31-inch rear theater screen with Amazon Fire TV lets passengers kick back with their favorite shows.
Impressive performance also helps set the i7 apart. Its dual-motor xDrive60 powertrain generates 536 horsepower for a 3.6 second 0-60 mph sprint.
The latest driver assistance tech includes an advanced hands-free highway driving assistant. With up to 324 miles of driving range and 195 kW fast charging, the i7 makes electrically powered long-distance travel easy. For those seeking a luxuriously appointed EV that makes a bold statement, the i7 delivers.
Lucid Air
The Lucid Air has a phenomenal maximum range of up to 516 miles on a single charge makes it a standout. For drivers who want to drive longer distances between plugging in, no other current production EV can match the Lucid Air’s battery capacity and real-world range.
To enable its unmatched endurance, Lucid pairs a giant 112 kWh lithium-ion battery pack with an extremely efficient drivetrain. DC fast charging at rates up to 300 kW further reduces charging times.
Of course, the Air offers more than just epic range. This premium sedan can be outfitted with up to 1,050 horsepower, rocketing it to 60 mph in as little as 2.5 seconds. The minimalist-chic interior provides both luxury and leading-edge tech. For EV enthusiasts focused on maximizing range between charges, the Lucid Air is in a class of its own.
Hyundai Ioniq 6
Efficiency is the name of the game with the sleek, aerodynamic Hyundai Ioniq 6. Thanks to its slippery, wind-cheating shape, the Ioniq 6 can travel up to an estimated 361 miles between plug-ins. For drivers aiming to minimize their energy consumption, this Hyundai is one of the most efficient EVs available.
The Ioniq 6 also features 800V ultra-fast charging to quickly replenish its battery pack when needed. Generous digital screens provide abundant driving information and entertainment. Advanced driver aids add an extra layer of security. For eco-focused commuters seeking to reduce their energy usage, the Ioniq 6 is a compelling pick.
Ford F-150 Lightning
America’s best-selling vehicle for decades, the Ford F-150 pickup, now comes in an all-electric Lightning model. This battery-powered truck provides up to 320 miles of driving range along with seriously quick acceleration.
Unlike any other EV, the Lightning also offers clever power export features. Up to 9.6 kW of electricity can be pulled from the Lightning’s battery pack to run power tools, an entire campsite, or even a house during an outage.
The Lightning brings quintessential F-150 capabilities along for the ride. It delivers equivalent maximum towing and payload ratings to gas-powered F-150 models. An expansive front trunk provides cargo flexibility.
Cutting-edge tech like the BlueCruise highway driving assistant further increase capability. For truck owners needing to tow and haul without the emissions, the Lightning is a compelling EV trailblazer.
Rivian R1S
Adventurous families and outdoor enthusiasts should consider the Rivian R1S electric SUV. With its off-road optimized chassis, generous ground clearance and wading depth, the R1S excels at traversing rugged terrain. Yet it still provides up to 316 miles of range for everyday commuting.
Clever features enhance the R1S’s abilities away from pavement. Large storage bins throughout the interior and exterior swallow gear.
Capable drive modes alter the vehicle’s performance for different conditions like mud or snow. Rivian’sCamp Kitchen even slides out of the R1S’s passenger side for cooking and food prep at your campsite. For those seeking an EV with true go-anywhere attitude, the R1S delivers.
Porsche Taycan
For driving purists seeking maximum performance and driver engagement, Porsche’s all-electric Taycan delivers. As the first production EV tuned for hard driving enjoyment, the Taycan sets itself apart. Turbo, Turbo S, and GT variants employ huge power, advanced drivetrain tech, and tenacious handling to thrill. Yet the Taycan still offers reasonable range for daily commuting, charging quickly when depleted.
Beyond sheer speed, the Taycan provides a visceral, connected driving experience few EVs can match.
Communicative steering, poised chassis balance, huge brakes, and a world-class interior further establish it as a driver’s car. The wagon-like Cross Turismo model provides added utility.
For enthusiasts unwilling to compromise on an exciting driving experience, the Porsche Taycan hits the mark.
EV Comparison Chart
To summarize the models mentioned, here is a chart comparing some key specifications:
Model Range (mi) Acceleration Max Charging Rate Price
- Tesla Model 3 272-358 3.5-5.8 sec 0-60 mph 250 kW $41,000+
- Tesla Model Y 303-330 3.5-5.3 sec 0-60 mph 250 kW $51,000+
- Chevrolet Bolt EUV 247 6.3 sec 0-60 mph 55 kW $28,000+
- BMW i7 324 3.6 sec 0-60 mph 195 kW $125,000+
- Lucid Air 469-516 2.5-3.0 sec 0-60 mph 300 kW $87,000+
- Hyundai Ioniq 6 361 5.1 sec 0-60 mph 233 kW $46,000+
- Ford F-150 Lightning 230-320 4.5 sec 0-60 mph 150 kW $73,000+
- Rivian R1S 316 3.0 sec 0-60 mph 220 kW $84,000+
- Porsche Taycan 199-227 2.6-2.8 sec 0-60 mph 270 kW $101,000+
Range
Range is a key consideration for any EV purchase. Thankfully, many compelling options now offer 200 miles or more on a single charge, which is sufficient for most drivers’ daily needs. However, EV shoppers who frequently embark on longer road trips or live in extreme climates may want to prioritize maximum range.
The Lucid Air currently leads the pack with a maximum of 516 miles combined EPA estimated driving range. Meanwhile, the entry-level Lucid Air Pure still manages an impressive 469 miles. These exceptional range figures vastly outdistance most competitors, reducing range anxiety for owners.
Tesla’s Model S and Model X also stand out with maximum Long Range Plus versions delivering 396 and 348 miles respectively between plugging in. However, their high prices place them out of reach for many buyers.
More affordable options like the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y still post very usable range figures of 358 miles and 330 miles in their highest range configurations. Compelling alternatives like the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and Kia EV6 offer over 300 miles of range at lower prices than Tesla.
Performance and Handling
EVs often deliver scintillating acceleration thanks to instant torque from electric motors. Performance models amp up the excitement further with extremely potent powertrains. The quickest production EVs today can out accelerate the fastest exotic supercars from just a few years ago.
Tesla’s Model S Plaid variant sets the benchmark, rocketing from 0-60 mph in just 2.3 seconds with its tri-motor powertrain. The Lucid Air Dream Edition follows close behind at 2.5 seconds to 60 mph. Porsche’s Taycan Turbo S electric sports sedan ties the Model S Plaid at 2.6 seconds 0-60 mph time.
Although sheer acceleration provides cheap thrills, balanced chassis dynamics and communicative steering elevate some EVs to a higher level of driver engagement. The Porsche Taycan stands out as the most engaging EV to drive hard thanks to its track-tuned suspension and steering. The Tesla Model 3 and BMW i4 also provide relatively athletic experiences. However, most mainstream EVs favor ride comfort over razor sharp responses.
Charging
One of the major downsides of EVs remains relatively slow recharging compared to gas vehicles. While charging speeds continue to increase, owners still need to factor extra charging time into road trips. Easy access to public DC fast charging can make a significant difference in EV convenience and usability.
Currently, the Lucid Air’s 300 kW charging capability enables the quickest charging with the ability to replenish 300 miles of range in just 20 minutes. Porsche’s 800-volt electrical architecture allows its Taycan model to charge at industry-leading 270 kW rates. Most competitors top out between 150-250 kW.
Tesla’s proprietary Supercharger network provides exclusive convenient fast charging access for Tesla drivers, giving their models a charging advantage other automakers are still working to match.
Meanwhile, expansive third-party charging networks like Electrify America offer charging infrastructure accessible by all EV brands. At home, a Level 2 charger can fully replenish most EVs during overnight hours.
If you need an EV home charger or cable, we recommend checking out the ZDNET guide to EV chargers, while our readers in the UK should check out Top Charger for reviews of the best EV chargers.
Technology and Features
The latest EVs incorporate advanced touchscreen infotainment systems and often unique high-tech features you can’t find in gasoline-powered cars. Large Tesla-style landscape touchscreens continue to proliferate, bringing controls and information front and center. EV-specific functionality like energy usage breakdowns and charging station finders further aid usability.
Some models maximize interior space through creative cabin designs only possible without a large internal combustion engine up front.
The BMW i7 takes advantage of its EV powertrain to enable a 31-inch rear theater screen that folds down from the ceiling for passengers. Rivian equips its R1S SUV with handy storage bins taking the place of a front engine bay.
Leading edge driver assistance tech also appears on many EVs before making its way to gas vehicles.
For instance, Tesla’s Autopilot system introduced auto-steering years before it arrived from mainstream brands. GM’s Super Cruise enables truly hands-free highway driving on Chevy and Cadillac models.
Cost Considerations
One of the biggest barriers to wider EV adoption remains higher purchase prices compared to gas vehicles. Not only are battery packs expensive, but EV production volumes are still ramping up. This leads to EVs generally costing $5,000-$15,000 more than combustion competitors.
However, falling battery costs along with government incentives are improving affordability over time. The Chevrolet Bolt EUV provides a relatively inexpensive EV option starting under $30,000.
All Tesla models and many additional EVs now qualify for the $7,500 US federal tax credit to reduce entry pricing. Local and state EV incentives can offer thousands in additional savings.
It’s also important to consider ongoing cost differences. Studies show EV fuel costs equate to roughly one-third the per-mile cost of fueling a gas vehicle. Lower maintenance requirements also reduce long term ownership costs. So while EVs may initially carry higher sticker prices, reduced operating expenses can offset those over time.
The Outlook Ahead
While impressive EV options exist today, the next few years will bring an avalanche of additional electric models.
Startups like Rivian and Lucid are just getting started issuing new models. Nearly every major automaker has committed to electrifying their lineups going forward. Exciting new choices like the Chevrolet Silverado EV, electric Porsche Macan and Genesis GV60 lie ahead.
Advancing battery tech will enable longer ranges from smaller, less expensive packs. Solid-state lithium batteries on the horizon could supercharge charging speeds. Expect expanded fast charging infrastructure to continue filling in gaps nationwide as well.
The electric future has arrived. Whether prioritizing affordability, range or performance, compelling EV options are now available to suit a breadth of needs. As the charging networks expand and more models hit the market, choosing an EV only gets easier. The age of electric vehicles has dawned and the best is yet to come.
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