The Newest EV vehicles are not only environmentally friendly, but also among the fastest cars in their respective market segments. In just a few years, battery-powered electric cars have come a long way from clunky commuter vehicles with short driving ranges and limited interior space to full-size SUVs with spacious cabins and three-row seating. As more automakers jump on the EV bandwagon, consumers have an ever-expanding selection of new models to choose from. This is good news for those in the market to purchase a new EV, as prices have dropped and some new models can be had at the same price as a comparable gas-powered car.
The Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt EV are some of the most affordable options for buyers looking to get into the EV game, but even they haven’t been around for all that long. The latest Leaf Mk2 offers an impressive 310 miles of range and starts under $30,000 before taking into account the $7,500 federal EV tax credit. The Kia Niro EV competes in this budget category as well and recently saw its 2023 model year get freshened up. However, its EV pricing is still below purpose-built EV crossovers such as the Kona Electric and Volkswagen ID.4.
As battery tech continues to improve, electric vehicles are entering more markets and attracting a new breed of buyers. This is particularly true in the small-to mid-size family car segment where electric cars are gaining ground and making the transition to battery power easier for drivers who would prefer not to buy a hybrid or plug-in hybrid. Many of these EVs can do 300+ miles on a single charge and can accelerate to 60 mph in under 5.0 seconds.
A few other models to watch include the Buick Electra E5 that will arrive Stateside later this year as part of GM’s push into fully electric vehicles. It uses the brand’s Ultium battery platform and is roughly the same size as a Chevrolet Equinox.
Meanwhile, Cadillac is set to introduce its first EV in the US with the 2025 Escalade E-tron. It rides on the same platform as the RZ, which was our 2023 Large Electric Car of the Year, and can do 335 miles in WLTP testing and sprint to 60 mph in less than 5.0 seconds.
Even the venerable DeLorean is getting into the game with its concept EV, a high-performance four-seater with gullwing doors that promises to do 0 to 88 mph in just 4.35 seconds.
The Ford Mustang Mach-E is another contender in the premium EV market and boasts a spacious, utilitarian cabin with plenty of seats and cargo room. Its 280-mile driving range and fast acceleration put it in direct competition with rivals such as the Audi Q4 e-tron, BMW iX3 EV, Kia Niro EV, Subaru Solterra EV, Toyota bZ4X and Volkswagen ID.4.