Thanks to recent innovations in technology, EV models have become more accessible to the general population than ever before. EVs are now more affordable, charging stations are more abundant, and they are more socially acceptable than they were in the past. If you want to make the transition to an electric vehicle, but your budget has made you think they’re out of your reach, one incredible option may change your mind. 

Electric vehicles have skyrocketed in popularity 

EVs have long been touted as a simple way to reduce one’s carbon footprint. Many have decided that opting for an EV doesn’t feel like a sacrifice, especially considering their potential positive impact on the environment. The White House recently outlined a target to have electric vehicles make up 50% of vehicles sold by 2030, which by some estimates seems quite realistic. 

Previously, high costs of EVs stood in the way for many to purchase electric, but affordable models like the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Kona have made it much easier and more affordable to join in on the eco-friendly transportation movement. Both vehicles are highly rated by everyday drivers and critics alike, and both offer a starting price of well below $50,000. 

The Tesla Model 3 is a notable runner-up

When people think of electric vehicles, Tesla is usually the first company that comes to mind. The Tesla Model 3 provides one of the best values in terms of EVs, mostly thanks to its impressive driving range of 253 miles in the standard model and its stunning 150 MPGe rating in the city and 133 MPGe rating on the highway. Most other EVs can’t keep up with those numbers. 

U.S. News reports that there isn’t a clear way to measure its engines with horsepower, but the reviewers remark that every Tesla engine is powerful and provides nimble acceleration. The Tesla Model 3 can charge about 3 miles per hour on a standard 120-volt outlet, but the Tesla Wall Connector boosts that to 30-44 miles per hour, so your Model 3 can charge completely overnight. You can also visit a Tesla Supercharging station, which can give your battery 175 miles of range in just 15 minutes. 

The Tesla Model 3 starts at $37,990. It may not be a perfect vehicle, but it’s still an excellent option for those wanting an EV at a great price.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona is the most affordable EV

The 2021 Hyundai Kona is a fantastic vehicle, and it would make the perfect choice for many families and individuals looking to purchase an EV. The Kona offers a balanced ride, comfortable interior, and intuitive infotainment center, and the reviewers at U.S. News were pleasantly surprised with the kick its engine provides. 

The 201-horsepower electric motor can also produce up to 291 lb-ft of torque, and all-electric also means instant torque and acceleration that packs a satisfying punch. The Kona gets an estimated 108 MPGe on the highway and 132-MPGe in the city, which is quite impressive for a vehicle of its size compared to its rivals. Its range sits around 285 miles, which is plenty for everyday commutes or even most day trips. 

When it comes time to charge it up, the Kona Electric can fully charge in about 10 hours with a standard charger, though you can get about 80% juiced up in just over an hour with the 50-kW DC Fast Charging and just under an hour with the 100-kW charging. The 2021 Kona starts at $39,390, which is a bit higher than the Tesla Model 3. However, it also comes with Hyundai’s famous warranty of five years or 60,000 miles for basic coverage and 10 years or 100,000 miles for powertrain coverage, which makes it an overall excellent value.