Affordable Electric: Here are 5 EVs You Can Buy for Less Than $15,000
More people are looking to buy an electric vehicle now than ever before. Between rising gas prices, well-developed EV technology, and their increasing affordability, EV sales are through the roof. However, not everyone is in a position to buy a brand new car. In a similar vein, not everyone wants a Nissan Leaf. Don’t worry, though! Here are five electric vehicles that you can buy for under $15,000 right now!
Volkswagen e-Golf
My EV describes the e-Golf’s handling characteristics as “tenacious.” This makes a lot of sense, given that it’s based on the same platform as the legendary Golf GTI. So, it’s a great candidate for those looking to purchase an EV that leaves some spirited driving on the table. Furthermore, earlier model years have a respectable range of 83 miles on a full charge.
The e-Golf was originally only sold in California, Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington D.C. However, older models have migrated their way all over the country and can regularly be found for under $15,000.
Kia Soul EV
The Kia Soul EV is a bit of a step up in size relative to the e-Golf. So, a little more wiggle room for passengers and cargo is a given. Additionally, the Kia Soul EV has just a sliver more range. When new, the Soul advertised a range of 90 miles on a full charge.
Like the e-Golf (and many other cheaper electric vehicle offerings), the Kia Soul EV was not for sale nationwide. It was available in California, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Texas, and Washington. You’ll have to stick around 2015 and 2016 model years, but they are out there for under $15,000!
Fiat 500e
You wouldn’t be faulted for not knowing that the Fiat 500e exists. If you thought the e-Golf and Soul EV were limited, just you wait! The 500e offers the iconic and easily recognizable styling of the Fiat 500 and combines it with an 87-mile charge range. It’s perfect for driving around town and easily finding a parking spot!
Unfortunately, the 500e was only originally sold in California and Oregon. So, the chance of finding one is a bit slimmer than most EVs. That being said, My EV reports seeing them for sale in Chicago and New York City. So, they are out there! When you do find them, they’re often under $10,000.
Chevrolet Spark EV
The Spark EV is similar to the 500e in a lot of ways. One is its tiny little stature that allows for peppy driving and another is its decent battery range. Rated at 82 miles, the Spark EV also makes a great candidate for city driving and short commutes.
Unfortunately, another similarity to the 500e is its limited initial availability. It originally only sold in California, Oregon, and Maryland. So, like the Fiat offering, it’ll be a bit difficult to find. However, another common trait is the sub $10,000 price point. With EVs this cheap, it’s worth considering looking into shipping them!
Ford Fous Electric
Last, but certainly not least on this list is the Ford Focus Electric. The fun Focus hatchback turned EV offers plenty of space and a comfortable ride. Furthermore, its final model year, 2017, got a rating of 115 miles per charge. Earlier models still keep up with the back for the most part with a rating of 76 miles.
Perhaps most appealing about the Ford Focus Electric, though, is the fact that it was available when new in all 50 states. So, they are much easier to access than the other cars on this list. My EV states that 2012 through 2014 model years can be found under $10,000. Additionally, the newest 2017 model years are still available under $15,000. That’s not too bad for such a new EV!
Going electric doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg
Although these vehicles don’t have the spectacular range or features you’ll find in the likes of a Tesla, they offer a much broader range of car shoppers the opportunity to make the switch to electric. Most of these provide more than enough range for your everyday driver. Plus, you get the opportunity to stand out a bit!
