Internal combustion engines are on the decline, and electric mobility is taking center stage. Despite the concerns of many, manufacturers have nearly addressed the issue of range. Surprisingly, Tesla is no longer the leader.
The shift to electric mobility is accelerating due to economic and political pressures. Thanks to advanced batteries and drivetrains, new models can travel longer distances without recharging, reducing costs.
One downside of electric vehicles is their often high weight, raising ecological concerns. Affordable models are rare, and in 2023, government subsidies were reduced.
Here’s a review of the top 18 electric cars based on WLTP tests. Actual ranges may vary based on use.
The VW ID.3, ranked 18th, is seen as the electric counterpart to the Golf and a beacon of hope for the brand. Volkswagen aims for this vehicle to be affordable and appeal to a wide market. However, it has fallen in the range ranking due to strong competitors. Launched in 2019, the ID.3 is based on Volkswagen’s own MEB (Modular Electrification Toolkit). Although the VW ID.3 doesn’t match the best-selling VW Golf in sales, a facelift was introduced within three years. The ID.3 comes in various performance versions, with the ID.3 Pro S offering the longest range at 559 km according to WLTP. However, with a starting price of 40,000 Euros, it’s not exactly cheap, and expectations are now on a more affordable VW model expected by the end of 2024.
The Tesla Model X, ranked 17th, is known for its distinctive falcon-wing doors. Despite weighing around 2.5 tons, this SUV, thanks to a 100 kWh battery, achieves an impressive range of up to 580 km. Its performance is also commendable, and a drivetrain update might push the range past 600 km. However, this vehicle’s price tag is relatively high, with used, leased, or subscription-based models being more affordable.
Nio ET7, ranked 16th, hints at the reshuffling in the automotive sector concerning electric mobility. Chinese car manufacturers are increasingly pushing into global markets, including Europe and Germany. Nio’s ET7 sedan poses a sales threat to established brands as it competes in terms of quality, comfort, and technology. A solid-state battery version expected in 2024 might achieve over 1,000 km of range. Currently, it reaches up to 580 km. Despite its impressive specs, this Chinese import starts at 81,900 Euros in Germany, making it not so affordable.
The BMW i4, at rank 15, is an electrified version of the conventional 3-series BMW, with a WLTP range of 584 km. Power varies between models, from 340 to 544 hp. It starts at 56,500 Euros, with the M-version costing more than 70,000 Euros. Government subsidies for electric cars apply.
The Nio ET5 at rank 14, is a smaller sedan available in Germany since 2022. With a WLTP range of 590 km, it competes with giants like Tesla and BMW. A unique feature is the battery-swapping capability at specialized stations, though there are currently few of these stations. The ET5 starts at 47,500 Euros with an additional monthly battery rental. The car can be purchased with the battery, raising the price.
Audi’s Q8 e-tron, at rank 13, is Volkswagen’s only electric vehicle in 2023 to achieve a range of 600 km. The SUV, after a revamp, not only got a new name but also improvements in range and efficiency through cutting-edge battery technology. However, its weight remains over 2.5 tons. It’s not exactly affordable, with prices starting at 80,000 Euros, and can go much higher with additional options.
The BMW iX, ranked 12th, demonstrates the German automaker’s commitment to leading in electric mobility. This electric SUV boasts an impressive range of up to 610 km, often seen as a competitor to the Tesla Model X. Starting at about 77,000 Euros, additional features can quickly ramp up the price. The performance version offers 544 hp and a top speed of 250 km/h, a plus on German highways.
Lucid Air, at rank 11, is an exciting new entry in the market. Lucid Motors, a U.S. electric car manufacturer, exceeded expectations with this vehicle. The Lucid Air’s base model provides a stunning WLTP range of 653 km, while performance versions can go up to 830 km. Aside from its outstanding range, Lucid Air also boasts impressive performance and top-notch build quality. Prices start at 80,000 Euros but can soar above 150,000 Euros for fully loaded models.
The models from ranks 10 to 1 offer a range of 660 km and above, with exact figures and details varying for each vehicle. Some might be prototypes, concept cars, or high-end models produced in limited quantities. It’s important to note that WLTP ranges can differ in real-world scenarios, based on driving conditions, driving style, and other factors.
Hyundai Ioniq 6 (Rank 10): This aerodynamic electric sedan from Korea, available in Germany since late 2022, impresses with a range of up to 614 km and sustainable interior materials. Priced from 44,000 Euros.
BMW i7 (Rank 9): Munich’s electric luxury sedan, available since late 2022, boasts a range of up to 623 km. A 660-hp model is set to launch in 2023. Starting price: 115,700 Euros.
Fisker Ocean (Rank 8): This innovative electric SUV, designed by Danish-American Fisker and manufactured in Austria since spring 2023, combines a vegan interior and solar roof with a range of up to 630 km. Starting at 41,560 Euros.
BMW iX (Rank 7): This luxury electric SUV, available since late 2021, offers a significant range of up to 630 km despite its 2.5-ton weight. Priced from 77,300 Euros.
Tesla Model S (Rank 6): The iconic electric car, with a top-end “Plaid” version that packs 1020 hp. The Long-Range variant offers a 634 km range. Starting at 105,000 Euros.
Mercedes EQE (Rank 5): Stuttgart’s sleek electric sedan, launched in 2022, can achieve a 639 km range. Priced from 67,000 Euros.
Polestar 2 (Rank 4): Volvo’s electric coupe can achieve up to 654 km when driven conservatively. Starting at 50,700 Euros.
Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV (Rank 3): A luxurious SUV offering up to 684 km of range. Starting at 110,801 Euros.
Mercedes EQS (Rank 2): Mercedes’ top-of-the-line electric offering with an astounding range of up to 770 km. Priced from around 110,000 Euros.
Lucid Air (Rank 1): This top-tier electric vehicle from California boasts an unbeatable range of up to 883 km. Starting at 109,000 Euros.