Consumer excitement surrounding electric cars is at an all-time high due to the promise of reduced carbon emissions, improved air quality, lower operating costs, and better energy security. But until recently, various factors have precluded widespread adoption.
However, between 2011 and 2021, sales of electric vehicles in the United States increased from just 0.2% of total car sales to 4.6% of total car sales.
Below, after exploring the reasons why electric cars are becoming more widely adopted, we’ll reveal a chronology of the electric cars that are making history.
Understanding Electric Vehicles
What exactly are electric vehicles? Electric vehicles (EVs) are powered by an electric motor. The electric power required to charge these motors comes from a battery charged via an external source. There are several types of electric car batteries, including lithium-ion, nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), lead-acid, and solid-state batteries.
Inventors experimented with batteries to charge vehicles as far back as the 19th century. So, why are we hearing more about electric vehicles today?
Electric Car Models Over Time
Stringent government regulations and large-scale investments in EV development and charging infrastructure are largely responsible for this market growth. The Biden Administration’s $1.2 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, for example, allocates $7.5 billion to developing the nation’s EV charging infrastructure.
Subsequently, more automakers have been compelled to develop efficient, powerful, and sophisticated electric vehicles, including electric SUVs, sedans, and luxury sports cars. Indeed, companies around the world plan to invest around $1.2 trillion through 2030 in the development of EVs.
As of March 2023, there were 40 battery-electric vehicle models available in the United States, a number that is expected to increase to 134 by 2024. Some of the best electric cars available today are listed below.
Coming in 2024 — Next-Gen Mini Cooper SE
The first Mini Electric debuted in 2020, and the next-gen 2024 Mini Cooper Electric is gaining buzz. The Mini Cooper SE is a two-door, four-person electric hardtop. Its electric motor has 199 lb-ft torque and 181 hp.
Its interiors are fitted with an 8.8-inch touchscreen, equipped with Apple CarPlay®, and a Dynamic Digital Instrument Cluster, which enables drivers to easily view key information including speed, driving modes, and turn-by-turn navigation.
The Mini Cooper SE has safety features such as lane departure warning and active driving assistant, which includes pedestrian and front collision warning.
Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds
Driving Range: 114 miles
Charging Capabilities: The Mini Cooper SE can charge from 0% to 80% in 36 minutes via a fast DC charger.
Cost: From $30,900
Delivery Time: Reserve now for 2024
Since November 2021 — BMW iX
The BMW IX is an all-electric sports utility vehicle (SUV) that combines cutting-edge technology, high performance, and luxury. It boasts 811 lb-ft torque, 610 hp, and a drag coefficient of just 0.25 Cd.
Its safety features include active blind spot detection, lane departure warning, and hands-free highway assistant. In addition, remote 3D view enables drivers to surveil their vehicle at all times via the My BMW App.
The BMW iX has a cloud-based navigation system, which monitors charge levels and locates nearby charging stations. Its interiors are spacious, stylish, and comfortable.
The BMW iX is available in xDrive50 and the more premium M60.
Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds
Speed: 124 mph
Driving Range: The xDrive50 reaches 307 miles, while the M60 reaches 296 miles.
Charging Capabilities: A BMW Wallbox, a Level 2 charger that charges the vehicle from 0% to 100% in less than 12 hours, is available. In addition, for participating 2022 and 2023 BMW iX models, BMW provides two years of complimentary charging at Electrify America charging stations, which adds up to 200 miles of range during a 30-minute charging session.
Cost: From $87,100
Delivery Time: Available now at some dealerships
Since December 2020 — Ford Mustang Mach-E
Ford’s high-performance, all-electric SUV, the Mustang Mach-E, features an enhanced Dual e-Motor, 480 horsepower, and 634 lb-ft. torque.
Interiors in the Ford Mustang Mach-E include a 15.5-inch touchscreen, an optional 10-speaker sound system, a panoramic fixed-glass roof, and fold-down seats that provide ample room for cargo.
Each purchase includes the Ford Mobile Charger, but buyers can upgrade to the Ford Connected Charge Station for up to 10 times faster charging.
Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds
Speed: 114 mph for the standard model and up to 120 mph for higher-performance models
Driving Range: 247 miles
Charging Capabilities: Ford Mustang Mach-E buyers have access to the BlueOval Charge Network, which includes DC fast chargers.
Cost: From $42,995. Eligible buyers may qualify for up to $3,750 in federal tax credits.
Delivery Time: 18-24 weeks
Since March 2020 — Tesla Model Y
Tesla Model Y is a mid-size all-electric SUV, which can seat up to seven passengers via an optional third row. Each second-row seat folds flat independently, which creates flexible storage for large cargo such as skis, furniture, and luggage.
The Tesla Model Y’s independent electric motors digitally control torque to the front and rear wheels, which enables better handling, traction, and stability control. As a result, the Tesla Model Y can perform in difficult conditions, including snow and mud.
The Tesla Model Y has achieved NHTSA 5-star safety ratings in every category and subcategory. In addition to the standard Model Y, it comes in Long Range and Performance.
Acceleration: 0-60 mph 3.5 seconds
Speed: 155 mph
Driving Range: 330 miles
Charging Capabilities: 162 miles in 15 minutes
Cost: From $47,490. Eligible buyers qualify for federal tax credits.
Delivery Time: 1-2 months (approx)
Since Fall 2019 — Porsche Taycan
Porsche’s Taycan, which has bodies including Taycan, Taycan 4 Cross Turismo, and Taycan GTS Sport Turismo, is an all-electric luxury sports car with four driving modes: Range, Normal, Sport, and Sport Plus.
The Taycan’s battery is based on 800-volt technology, not the typical 400 volts, which improves charging efficiency and drive performance.
Exterior features include Air Curtains, which improve the vehicle’s aerodynamics, four-point LED headlights, and extending door handles.
Interior features include an enlarged rear boot, which can be extended to a total of 42.8 cu. ft., Voice Pilot, and optional Porsche Intelligent Range Manager, which helps drivers and passengers achieve maximum comfort at the best possible range.
Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds
Speed: 161 mph
Driving Range: 246 miles
Charging Capabilities: A home charger is included with every Taycan purchase, as well as three years of unlimited charging at any Electrify America station across the country. Buyers also gain access to the Porsche Destination Charging Network.
Cost: From $90,900
Delivery Time: 6-9 months
Since April 2019 — Mercedes-Benz EQC
The Mercedes-Benz EQC is a luxury all-electric SUV. The model features two asynchronous motors, with compact electric drivetrains at each axle.
The vehicle’s safety features include Standard Active Brake Assist, Speed Limit Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist.
Design features include an AI-powered natural voice control multimedia system, a digital widescreen cockpit and touchscreen, LED intelligent light system headlamps, and optional ambient lighting in 64 colors.
Acceleration: 0–60 mph in 4.8 seconds
Speed: 112 mph
Driving Range: 250 miles
Charging Capabilities: Via a DC fast charger, the EQC can charge from 10% to 80% in 40 minutes.
Cost: From $128,000
Delivery Time: It will not arrive in the United States until after 2025.
Since 2018 — Hyundai Kona Electric
The Kona Electric has a 201 hp electric motor, wireless integration for Apple and Android, and an 8-inch color touchscreen. Optional features — for an additional cost — include a power sunroof, heated steering wheel, leather-trimmed seats, and Smart Cruise Control.
These electric vehicles are complete with regenerative brakes that convert the wheels’ mechanical energy into electricity and store it in the battery. Buyers get 250 kWh of charging for free and the model’s advanced lithium-ion battery is covered by a 10-year/100,000-mile limited warranty.
Hyundai SmartSense includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist that has Pedestrian Detection, Lane-Keeping Assist, and Smart Crusie Control.
Autotrader ranked the Kona Electric as one of the 10 best Electric Cars for 2021.
Acceleration: 0–60 mph in 4.8 seconds
Speed: 104 mph
Driving Range: 258 miles
Charging Capabilities: The Kona Electric can be charged from 10% to 100% in 9 hours and 15 minutes via a Level 2 home charger. Via a Level 3 quick charger, it can be charged from 10% to 80% in approximately 64 minutes.
Cost: From $33,550
Delivery Time: 3-6 months
Since 2018 — Jaguar I-PACE
The Jaguar I-PACE is an all-electric SUV with 394 hp.
Interior features of the Jaguar I-PACE include the Pivi Pro7 infotainment system and Amazon Alexa20, which includes a range of voice control features. In addition, it features LED headlights (with optional upgrade), a fixed panoramic roof, and heated and cooled electric driver memory front seats.
The Jaguar I-Pace was the winner of World Car of the Year, World Car Design of the Year, and World Green Car.
Acceleration: 0–60 in 4.5 seconds
Speed: 124 mph
Driving Range: 246 miles
Charging Capabilities: Via a 9.6 kW AC home charger, a full charge can be achieved in 10.17 hours
Cost: From $49,500
Delivery Time: 6+ months
Since July 2017 — Tesla Model 3
Tesla Model 3 is a small, fully-electric sedan available in Rear-Wheel Drive, Long Range AWD, and Performance.
Tesla Model 3 has achieved NHTSA 5-star safety ratings in every category and subcategory. It offers the option of dual motor all-wheel drive, 20-inch Überturbine wheels, and performance brakes for complete control in adverse weather conditions. Fitted with rear, side, and forward-facing cameras, the Model 3 provides drivers with maximum visibility. In addition, Tesla Vision detects nearby cars, helping to prevent collisions and aid drivers with parking.
Acceleration: 0–60 mph in 3.1 seconds
Speed: 162 mph
Driving Range: 325+ miles
Charging Capabilities: 147 miles in 15 minutes via a Tesla Supercharger. There are currently 45,000+ Superchargers placed on popular routes around the world.
Cost: From $40,240. Eligible buyers qualify for federal tax credits between $3,750 and $7,500.
Delivery Time: Less than a month
September 2015 — Tesla Model X
The seven-seater Tesla Model X is the world’s highest-performing all-electric SUV. Interior features include the world's largest panoramic windshield, multi-device Bluetooth connectivity, a 22-speaker, 960-watt audio system, and a 17-inch touchscreen.
Tesla Model X is also designed for maximum utility, boasting up to 92 cu. ft. of storage space, 5,000 lbs of towing capacity for the 20-inch Cyberstream Wheels, and Falcon Wing rear doors that allow for easy loading.
Tesla’s latest active safety features, including Automatic Emergency Braking, are included in the purchase at no extra cost.
Acceleration: 0–60 mph in 2.5 seconds
Speed:155 mph
Driving Range: 333 miles
Charging Capabilities: 200 miles in 15 minutes via a Tesla Supercharger. There are currently 45,000+ Superchargers placed on popular routes around the world.
Cost: From $98,490
Delivery Time: Less than a month
June 2012 — Tesla Model S
Tesla Model S is an agile sports sedan that combines powertrain and battery technologies for superior performance, range, and efficiency. The model has the quickest acceleration of any vehicle currently in production.
New thermal architecture enables fast battery charging and provides drivers with more power and endurance in all conditions.
Features including Tesla Vision, Autopilot, and Full Self-Driving improve safety and assist with the most burdensome aspects of driving. For example, Autopilot enables the Tesla Model S to automatically steer, accelerate, and brake.
Acceleration: 0–60 mph in 1.99 seconds
Speed: 200 mph
Driving Range: 396 miles
Charging Capabilities: 200 miles in 15 minutes via a Tesla Supercharger. There are currently 45,000+ Superchargers placed on popular routes around the world.
Cost: From $88,490. Buyers receive three years of unlimited free supercharging with the purchase of a new Model S.
Delivery Time: Less than a month
Since 2012 — Audi e-tron
The Audi e-tron is an all-electric SUV offering high-performance, sophisticated interiors, and charging efficiency.
In 2023, the e-tron received a 2022 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ Award, which identifies the best vehicle choices for safety. The e-tron has safety features including an optional augmented reality (AR) headset, which provides real-time vehicle information.
Audi’s 3-in-1 financing package, Level Up EV Lease, enables buyers to lease an e-tron, finance a Level 2 HomeStation, and finance up to $1,000 towards e-tron charger installation.
Acceleration: 0–60 mph in 5.8 seconds
Speed: 124 mph
Driving Range: 265 miles
Charging Capabilities: Via a DC fast charger, the Audi e-tron can charge from 5% to 80% in 36 minutes.
Cost: From $49,800
Delivery Time: 12+ months
Since December 2010 — Nissan Leaf
The 2023 Nissan Leaf is a fully electric vehicle that has racked up more than two billion miles of driving in the U.S. alone.
The model has a wide range of driver assistance and safety features. Safety Shield 360, for example, includes automatic emergency braking, rear automatic braking, lane departure warning, and high beam assist.
Its interior space includes heated seats and steering wheels, automatic temperature control, and folding rear seats.
Acceleration: 0–60 mph in 6.8 seconds
Speed: 106 mph
Driving Range: 212 miles
Charging Capabilities: The Nissan Leaf can be charged via Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 Chargers. Nissan has the largest network of high-speed EV chargers at U.S. dealerships. It has partnered with Wallbox to make home-charger installation straightforward.
Cost: From $27,800
Delivery Time: 3-9 months