The UK is shifting to electric vehicles (EVs). Sales of electric cars and hybrid cars have increased exponentially. With the government announcing that no new petrol or diesel cars will be sold from 2030, many new buyers are now choosing an electric car instead. This is thanks to grants that are currently available for plug-in cars (as well as grants available for the installation of a home EV charge point) as well as the exceptionally low running costs that electric cars offer, while also being fun to drive and better for the environment.
So, here’s 10 cars that we’ve picked as firm favourites of many, and a great place to start, if you’re looking to make the switch.
Hyundai Kona Electric
The Hyundai Kona Electric was one of the first EVs that showcased that a long electric range didn’t have to come with a big price to match.
And with the capability of being able to travel 300 miles between charges on the 64kWh battery model, it’s a seriously appealing small electric crossover. Bold styling and a generous list of standard kit also make it one of the best.
Mini Electric
Mini is known for its cars being great fun to drive, and even with the introduction of heavier batteries on its new ‘Electric’, this three-door hot hatch hasn’t lost its sparkle.
Add in the cool styling that Minis are known for, along with a high-quality interior, and this is a brilliant small EV. Just be aware that the 145-mile range isn’t the longest around.
Mercedes EQC
Premium electric SUVs are available in quite heavy supply these days, with Tesla, Jaguar and Audi all offering models in this class.
But one of our favourites is the Mercedes EQC – a high-quality, quick and striking electric car that would be ideal as a more upmarket family car. A 259-mile electric range also makes it better-suited to longer journeys on this list than others, too.
Fiat 500 Electric
The Fiat 500 has been a huge hit since the Italian marque revived the nameplate in 2007. And now it’s ready for an electric future as an EV.
Rather than use the existing petrol car as a base, though, Fiat started from scratch – creating a cool, more technologically advanced model that’s capable of a 199-mile range, which is impressive for something this size. It’s also has a target price of £23,495, which makes it very accessible.
Honda e
Honda is a manufacturer known for its innovation and few cars show that better than its quirky ‘e’ electric car.
With retro styling that makes it look like nothing else on the roads, along with technology that could embarrass plenty of luxury cars, this small EV is one of the coolest models on the market today. It’s also a lot of fun to drive, though is let down somewhat by a small 137-mile range.
MG5
MG is a firm that’s helped to bring usable electric cars to the masses, not brimming its cars with fancy tech and gimmicks that drive up the price. Instead, what you get are seriously good value electric cars.
First with the ZS EV crossover and now with the new MG5 – the first electric estate car in the UK. Combining a strong 214-mile range with a spacious interior and low asking price. It offers a lot of appeal if you value serious functionality.
Tesla Model 3
Tesla has been a trendsetter when it comes to electric cars, and this American firm’s range of cars continues to impress. Arguably the best so far, though, is the Model 3 – the firm’s most affordable model that’s laden with tech.
It’s now one of the UK’s most popular electric cars, and with a range of up to 360 miles offered, along with blistering performance, it’s not difficult to see why.
BMW i3
While the BMW i3 might be one of the oldest EVs on the market, look at its futuristic styling and funky interior that’s made from a range of recycled materials and you’d never know.
The i3 is also really good to drive and impressively comfortable, while BMW is even offering a sportier ‘i3S’ model for those looking for something a bit more aggressive. Models can travel around 180 miles on a single charge.
Volkswagen ID.3
Volkswagen’s first EV has been a long time in the making, but is arguably one of the most important electric cars around – not least because the MEB platform it’s built from will go on to underpin a range of battery-powered cars from Volkswagen, Seat, Skoda, and Audi.
Thankfully it doesn’t disappoint, as the ID.3 is excellent to drive, well-equipped, and impressively spacious. A phenomenal range of up to 336 miles is also on the cards from top-spec models.
Renault Zoe
The Renault Zoe has been one of the most popular EVs since its introduction in 2013, and recently has been comprehensively updated with a higher-quality interior, more powerful motor, and crucially, a longer range.
With a 52kWh battery, the Zoe can now travel for 245 miles on a single charge. It’s also quite roomy for a small car, and looks the part, too – especially in a new GT Line trim level.
Find the car that’s right for you
These are just some of our picks of popular and accessible electric cars. However, you’re spoilt for choice. There are a lot more electric cars available now than you might think. You can use our ‘Find the best EV for you’ search tool, to select the size of the car that you’re interested in, and any other key preferences, and it will create a bespoke list of options just for you.
