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These Six Electric Cars Are Predicted to Be the Most Reliable

Electric cars have gotten popular lately due to their high-tech vibes and potential to save dollars at the pump, but how do you know which ones are the most reliable? The good news is that most electric vehicles use single-speed transmissions and are less likely to suffer any of the dozens of possible mechanical issues …

Electric cars have gotten popular lately due to their high-tech vibes and potential to save dollars at the pump, but how do you know which ones are the most reliable?

The good news is that most electric vehicles use single-speed transmissions and are less likely to suffer any of the dozens of possible mechanical issues traditional cars with combustion engines face. You don’t even have to remember to change the oil!

Today’s cars are being built better than ever, and many automakers cover an electric vehicle’s battery pack under warranty for 100,000 miles. But not all EVs are as reliable as others. Here are six electric cars that Consumer Reports expects to be the most reliable:

6. Kia Niro EV

Starting at $39,495 for the EX model and rising to $44,995 for the EX Premium model, the Kia Niro EV has something for everyone to enjoy. The practical, sophisticated SUV features a high-seating position great for tall drivers and passengers, plenty of cargo space, and more ground clearance than many other EV’s. It also has an impressive 239-mile EPA range. Standard features include automatic climate control, adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and blind spot monitoring.

5. Hyundai Kona Electric

Style, speed, and electric-only driving make the Hyundai Kona really stand out. The Kona Electric can go from zero to 60 mph in just 6.4 seconds. It has a terrific EPA-rated 258-mile range. Price points start at $37,495 for base level, $42,195 for mid-level, and $45,695 for the ultimate. All models come with a touchscreen infotainment system complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking are also standard features. With its long range and competitive pricing, it’s easy to see why the Kona is so popular.

4. Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf comes in six different variants ranging from the standard model at $30,885 to the SL Plus model at $43,445. The Standard Leaf model has a 150-mile range, which is great for those with short commutes. The Leaf Plus boosts that range to 226 miles thanks to its larger battery pack. One interesting trait about the Nissan Leaf is that you can either use a regular 120-volt outlet or a 240-volt outlet to charge the battery at home. Overall, The Leaf provides a ride that is comfortable, reliable, and great for everyday use.

3. Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 is an all-electric alternative to compact luxury sedans such as the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. The most affordable model has to be special-ordered but starts at $35,000 and has a 220-mile range. If you’re looking to go even further, the Long Range Battery model gets a 310-mile rating but goes for $51,100. The Tesla Model 3 holds its battery under the floor, resulting in crisp steering and more stable turns. The interior is almost shockingly simple, featuring one large touchscreen in the middle of the dashboard and plenty of space. Top reviews praised the Tesla Model 3 for having incredible powertrain, steering, suspension, and brakes.

2. BMW i3

Nothing draws in the eyes quite like the BMW i3 with its controversial-at-best styling. The BMW base i3 model offers 153 miles of range, however, a two-cylinder range-extending gasoline engine can also be ordered if you’re worried about range. Neither Chevy or Tesla offer this upgrade option, so that’s something to consider. The base model starts at $45,455. A futuristic interior makes the reliable BMW i3 really stand out. If a prestigious badge is your top priority, the i3 certainly won’t disappoint.

1. Chevrolet Bolt EV

The Chevrolet Bolt EV is Consumer Reports’ top-rated electric vehicle. It boasts an impressive EPA-rated 238-mile range, which is more than twice the range of others in its same price range. It also packs an affordable price tag at just $37,495. Charging the Bolt’s battery takes around 9 hours, but the fast charging option can add 90 miles of range in just 30 minutes (provided you have a Level 3 charging station available). Overall, the Bolt offers a smooth ride, better than expected acceleration, and is predicted to be the most reliable electric vehicle you can buy.

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