Electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly gaining popularity, and for good reason. They offer a greener way to travel, reduced running costs, and a fun driving experience. However, a common misconception is that EVs are always expensive. While it’s true that some premium models carry hefty price tags, the market is expanding to include more affordable options. If you’re looking to switch to electric without breaking the bank, you’re in luck. Thanks to federal tax credits and increasing competition, there are several compelling electric cars available for under $30,000. Let’s dive into some of the Top Electric Cars that combine affordability with impressive features.
2016 Smart Electric Drive – Starting at $12,490 After Federal Tax Credit
The Smart Fortwo Electric Drive, known for its ultra-compact size, holds the title of the most budget-friendly electric car in the US market. While its diminutive stature might not suit everyone, it’s an ideal solution for navigating congested urban environments. Parking becomes a breeze, and its electric powertrain is perfect for short city commutes. If your household is small, you don’t require extensive cargo space, and primarily drive within city limits – especially if you have charging access at work – the Smart Electric Drive could be a surprisingly practical and economical choice. However, for those needing more passenger or cargo capacity, or longer driving ranges, exploring other options on this list is advisable.
2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV – Starting at $15,495 After Federal Tax Credit
Stepping up in size and practicality from the Smart, the Mitsubishi i-MiEV offers a subcompact 4-door hatchback configuration at an attractive price point. Priced at an MSRP of $22,995, which effectively drops to $15,495 after the federal tax credit, the i-MiEV provides seating for four, making it competitive within the city car segment. While cabin space is modest, the added seats offer greater versatility compared to the Smart. Powered by a 66-horsepower electric motor and offering a range of up to 59 miles, the i-MiEV excels in city driving and short commutes. Mitsubishi further enhances its appeal with an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on the battery, providing peace of mind for potential buyers concerned about long-term battery health.
2016 Chevrolet Spark EV – Starting at $17,620 After Federal Tax Credit
Chevrolet enters the affordable EV arena with the Spark EV, an all-electric version of their popular subcompact Spark hatchback. This model presents itself as an unassuming yet capable electric car option for budget-conscious buyers. While not designed for thrilling performance, the Spark EV boasts commendable maneuverability and reasonable interior space for its class, along with an EPA-estimated range of 82 miles per charge. With an original MSRP of $25,120, the federal tax credit brings the price down to a compelling $17,620. However, it’s important to note that Chevrolet discontinued the Spark EV for the 2017 model year, meaning availability might be limited to remaining 2016 inventory at dealerships. For those interested, prompt action might be necessary to secure one of these affordable EVs.
2016 Volkswagen e-Golf – Starting at $21,495 After Federal Tax Credit
The Volkswagen Golf is well-regarded for its practicality and enjoyable driving dynamics, and the e-Golf extends these qualities into the electric realm. Priced under $30,000 after tax credits, the e-Golf offers a familiar Golf experience powered by a 115-horsepower electric motor. It provides an EPA-estimated range of 83 miles per charge, suitable for daily commutes and city driving. The e-Golf’s MSRP of $28,995 translates to $21,495 after the federal tax credit, making it an attractive value proposition for a Volkswagen. However, availability is a key consideration as Volkswagen initially offered the e-Golf in select states. Prospective buyers should verify availability with their local Volkswagen dealership to confirm if the e-Golf is accessible in their region.
2017 Hyundai Ioniq Electric – Starting at $22,000 After Federal Tax Credit
For those seeking an affordable electric car that blends in with mainstream aesthetics, the 2017 Hyundai Ioniq Electric presents a compelling option. Priced at approximately $22,000 after the federal tax credit, it positions itself competitively within its vehicle class. The Ioniq Electric features a conventional Hyundai design, prioritizing practicality and ease of use. While its 118 horsepower and 124-mile range might be slightly less than some competitors on this list, its attractive pricing, coupled with Hyundai’s lifetime battery warranty (for original owners, check specific terms), and its overall approachable nature, could appeal to a broad range of buyers, particularly those new to electric vehicles. The Ioniq lineup also includes hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions, offering diverse electrified options within the same model family.
2017 Nissan Leaf – Starting at $23,180 After Federal Tax Credit
A pioneer in the electric vehicle market, the Nissan LEAF, introduced in 2011, quickly rose to become one of the world’s best-selling EVs. This compact hatchback offers a spacious interior accommodating up to five passengers and ample cargo capacity. It provides a practical range of 107 miles on a single charge, making it suitable for daily commutes and errands. While the LEAF’s MSRP slightly exceeds our $30,000 threshold at $30,680, the federal tax credit brings the effective price down to a reasonable $23,180. The Nissan LEAF played a significant role in demonstrating the viability of electric vehicles as everyday transportation. Although it might not be the quickest EV, particularly at highway speeds, and its interior design may feel somewhat dated, it remains a highly accessible entry point into electric car ownership. Potential improvements could include interior updates and enhanced safety features, but its affordability remains a key strength.
2017 Kia Soul EV – Starting at $24,750 After Federal Tax Credit
Continuing the theme of “normal-looking” EVs, the 2017 Kia Soul EV offers a familiar and distinctive design in an electric package. Like many EVs in this price range, it relies on incentives to fall under the $30,000 mark, but the value proposition is strong. Starting at an MSRP of $32,250, the federal tax credit reduces the price to a more appealing $24,750. The Soul EV provides a range of up to 93 miles on a charge and mirrors the versatility of the gasoline-powered Kia Soul, offering comfortable seating for up to five occupants. The Kia Soul’s established presence on the roads ensures the electric version blends seamlessly into everyday traffic, appealing to buyers seeking an EV that doesn’t overtly stand out.
2017 Tesla Model 3 – Starting at $27,500 After Federal Tax Credit
The 2017 model year marked the arrival of Tesla’s more accessible offering, the Model 3. This electric sedan aimed to bring Tesla’s advanced technology and performance to a broader market segment. The Model 3 boasted a significantly longer range of 215 miles, accommodating five adults in a refined cabin. Tesla also emphasized safety, designing the Model 3 to achieve top scores in safety assessments, although official testing was pending at the time of this article’s original publication. Furthermore, the Model 3 delivered impressive acceleration, capable of reaching 0-60 mph in under six seconds. With a base MSRP of $35,000, the federal tax credit brought the price down to $27,500. However, it’s important to note that high demand for the Model 3 resulted in considerable order backlogs, with wait times for new orders potentially stretching to a year or more.
2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV – Starting at $29,120 After Federal Tax Credit
The Chevrolet Bolt EV represented a significant step forward in affordable, long-range electric vehicles for the 2017 model year. It surpassed the capabilities of Chevrolet’s earlier Volt plug-in hybrid by offering a fully electric driving experience with extended range. The Bolt EV boasted an EPA-estimated range of 238 miles on a full charge, and could gain up to 90 miles of range with a 30-minute DC fast-charging session, making it one of the most versatile EVs in its class. While some interior materials might reflect cost-saving measures, the cabin remained quiet, comfortable, and spacious enough for five passengers. Despite a relatively high MSRP of $36,620, the federal tax credit reduced the price to $29,120, positioning the Bolt EV just within our sub-$30,000 list.
The 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV, a long-range and versatile electric car, pushing the boundaries of affordability.
Honorable Mention: 2017 BMW i3 – Starting at $34,900 After Federal Tax Credit
Venturing slightly beyond the $30,000 threshold, the BMW i3 earns an honorable mention as a luxury electric car option that, while pricier than others on this list, still represents relative value within the EV landscape. With an MSRP of $42,400, the federal tax credit lowers the price to $34,900. The BMW i3 showcases the brand’s innovative approach to electric mobility, featuring distinctive styling and a focus on sustainability. BMW introduced unique trim levels and package names like “Giga World” and “Tera World,” contributing to the i3’s upscale and distinctive character. The i3 delivers a comfortable and premium hatchback experience, with an EPA-estimated range of 114 miles per charge. For buyers with some flexibility in their budget seeking a more premium electric vehicle, the BMW i3 is a compelling choice to consider.
Conclusion:
The electric car market is continuously evolving, with more affordable and capable models emerging regularly. While the landscape of available models under $30,000 may have shifted since these 2016-2017 models were released, this list demonstrates that accessible entry points to EV ownership have existed and continue to expand. Exploring these models provides valuable insights into the features and price points that were once attainable, and serves as a benchmark for the increasingly competitive and affordable electric vehicle market of today. As technology advances and production scales up, we can expect to see even more top electric cars become available at prices that are accessible to a wider range of consumers, making the transition to electric driving a realistic and attractive option for more people than ever before.
