Electric car (EV) being charged

Electric car charging (Photo by CHUTTERSNAP on Unsplash)

For many drivers, nothing feels more futuristic than sitting behind the steering wheel of an electric car. Not only does it eliminate the need for frequent trips to the gas station, but driving an electric car also contributes to a cleaner and more sustainable environment. The technology behind these vehicles keeps advancing, with longer battery life and faster charging times, making them even more convenient and accessible for everyday use. With these advancements and popularity, the market has only expanded over the years, providing you with endless options to choose from when looking for the right vehicle. Of course, we at EdNews always like to help along the way, which is why we wanted to find the consensus five best electric cars for 2024 to make research easy! Isn't technology a wonderful thing?

Did you know that electric cars really do reduce air pollution and boost public health, according to one recent study? Researchers from the University of Southern California (USC) say asthma attacks and other respiratory problems fall as more people switch to vehicles that produce zero emissions. The research highlights the potential of electric cars to not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also improve public health by creating cleaner and healthier communities. Luckily, we've made a list that may just make you an electric vehicle (EV) fan for life! To create our list, we looked at nine expert sources to find the top five most frequently recommended electric cars. Did we miss one? We would love to hear from you in the comments down below. Now, onto the list!

The List: Best Electric Cars, According to Experts

1. Chevrolet Bolt EV

Drivers Side Image of Silver2023 Bolt EV Driving on Overpass
Chevrolet Bolt EV (Photo via chevrolet.com)

The Chevrolet Bolt EV is an impressive electric vehicle that combines cutting-edge technology with a sleek and modern design. Remember those whispers about the Chevy Bolt getting discontinued? Gearheads, rejoice!  The Bolt is back in the fast lane, not just with its impressive range and quick charging, but also with a brand new price tag, Motor Trend reports. The Bolt is now the most affordable electric vehicle you can buy in the U.S., making it a seriously attractive option for eco-conscious drivers. While the 2023 model year will be the last for the current Bolt design, a whole new generation is already in the works.

The Bolt isn't afraid to stand out. It's got a unique, non-traditional hatchback style that's sure to turn heads. But it's not just about looks – this electric powerhouse packs a punch. A single 200-horsepower motor gives you plenty of zip, and with an EPA-estimated range of 259 miles on a single charge, you can worry less about finding a plug and more about enjoying the ride, writes Car and Driver. Need a quick top-up? No problem! The Bolt has DC fast-charging capabilities that Chevy says can add up to 100 miles of range in just 30 minutes. Perfect for those times you need a little extra juice to reach your destination.

Back in the day, critics praised it for its roomy interior, zippy driving experience, and impressive range – all qualities that continue to make the Bolt a strong contender in the EV market. But it gets better! The latest Bolt boasts an even nicer interior, making your eco-friendly commutes even more comfortable. And the price tag? Seriously attractive ($26,500 - $29,700), making the Bolt a champion for value-conscious electric car shoppers, adds Edmunds. The Bolt is a smart pick if you're looking for an affordable, feature-packed electric car.

2. Hyundai Ioniq 6

2023 IONIQ 6 Charging - get up to 361 miles of range.
Hyundai Ioniq 6 (Photo via hyundaiusa.com)

Move over, other electric vehicles – there's a new contender in town! The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is an upcoming electric sedan that promises to deliver a seamless blend of style, performance, and sustainability. First off, the interior is a winner. Imagine a cabin that's expertly crafted, spacious enough for everyone to stretch out, and packed with all the latest technology – that's the Ioniq 6 experience, raves U.S. News. But it doesn't stop there. You get a choice of two powerful electric powertrains, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride no matter where you're headed. Plus, the driving range is excellent, so you can worry less about finding a charging station and more about enjoying the drive. The Ioniq 6's trunk is a bit on the small side, and taller passengers might find the rear headroom a touch lacking. But these minor drawbacks don't take away from the overall package.

This car has some seriously eye-catching looks. It's a five-seater with a design that breaks away from the boxy SUV trend, offering a sleek and modern aesthetic. But it's not just about pretty lines – the Ioniq 6 packs a punch with decent power and a good driving range, comments True Car. Here's a heads-up though: the Ioniq 6 doesn't currently qualify for a federal tax credit, which might be a factor for some eco-conscious shoppers. However, there are still plenty of reasons to consider this electric car. It comes in four different trim levels, with the most popular option being the SEL RWD. This version starts at $46,365 and offers rear-wheel drive with an electric engine.

The Ioniq 6 isn't your average four-door. It takes a traditional sedan shape and injects it with a fresh, funky vibe that's sure to turn heads, notes Motor Trend. This all-electric wonder shares some of its technical DNA with its award-winning sibling, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 (MotorTrend's 2023 SUV of the Year, no less!). But the Ioniq 6 carves its own path with a unique design that sets it apart from competitors like the Polestar 2, BMW i4, and Tesla Model 3. Launched in 2023, the Ioniq 6 is back for 2024 with no major changes, so you know it's a solid choice if you're looking for a stylish and electric way to get around.

3. Nissan Leaf

2024 Nissan LEAF in white on a highway daytime
Nissan Leaf (Photo via nissanusa.com)

The Nissan Leaf, introduced in 2010, is a trailblazer in the world of electric vehicles (EVs). As the first mass-produced EV to hit the market, it has revolutionized the way we think about sustainable transportation. It is surprisingly affordable – its low starting price ($28,140) makes it an attractive option for budget-minded drivers. But don't let the price fool you – this electric car is packed with technology and safety features that will keep you entertained and secure on the road. Plus, it offers an energetic driving experience, making your commute anything but boring.

Depending on the model you choose, you can enjoy a range of either 149 miles or 215 miles on a single charge. That's enough for most everyday commutes, and you won't have to worry about constantly searching for a charging station, describes Edmunds. The Leaf also gets major points for its quiet operation. Say goodbye to noisy engines and hello to a peaceful driving experience. And let's not forget the helpful technology features. If you spend a lot of time stuck in traffic, this ride can be a lifesaver. These features can help make those stop-and-go commutes less stressful and tiring, keeping you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle your day.

But if your daily drives are mostly local and you don't need a ton of range, the Leaf hatchback is a great option. It's a budget-conscious way to join the electric car revolution, and its compact size makes it perfect for zipping around town, explains Car and Driver. This electric car's biggest perk – affordability. For under $30,000, you can ditch the gas station and embrace the world of electric vehicles. That low price point makes the switch to charging stations a lot easier to swallow. Just be sure to factor in the shorter range and slower charging times before you hit the road.

4. Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 is back and better than ever!  From its sleek makeover to its cutting-edge battery technology and its enhanced autopilot capabilities, the Tesla Model 3 is a game-changer in every aspect. This electric car boasts an impressive estimated driving range, so you can worry less about finding a charging station and more about enjoying the ride, praises Car and Driver. But the best part? The starting price is $40,630. 

But here's the big perk: Tesla's nationwide charging network. This makes it a super-appealing option for commuters who want a sustainable way to get around town, writes Autoweek. No more range anxiety – you'll always have a place to juice up your Tesla. But wait, there's more! Calling all speed demons! The Model 3 Performance trim is here to quench your thirst for adrenaline. This powerhouse not only boasts a longer range than the base model, but it also packs a serious punch with 450 horsepower. Zero to sixty in just 3.5 seconds? Check. Dedicated track mode for weekend racing adventures? You got it.

The base Model 3 might be enough for your daily needs, but if you crave longer road trips or a bit more muscle, the dual-motor option boasts a range of 272 miles, adds CNET. That's plenty for most everyday driving scenarios, with the occasional adventure thrown in for good measure. Plus, with an impressive efficiency rating of four miles per kWh, you'll be keeping operating costs low – win-win! So, if a longer range and more power are on your electric car wishlist, consider springing for the upgraded dual-motor Tesla Model 3. It might cost a bit more upfront, but the extra range, efficiency, and performance could be worth it in the long run.

5. Polestar 2

The Polestar 2 is an all-electric compact luxury sedan that aims to revolutionize the electric vehicle market. The Polestar 2 is all about offering choices, notes Autoweek. The design is undeniably sharp, turning heads wherever you go. But it's not just a pretty face – this electric car also caters to driving enthusiasts with its optional Performance Pack. Think 20-inch wheels, summer tires for better grip, Brembo brakes for superior stopping power, and adjustable dampers for a customized ride. Oh, and let's not forget the twin electric motors that unleash a whopping 469 horsepower!

Let's be honest, unless fuel efficiency is your absolute top priority (and let's face it, for most of us it's not), the Polestar 2 and Tesla Model 3 are pretty darn similar. Both have starting prices hovering around the mid-to-high $40,000 range, offer a driving range between 265 and 270 miles on a single charge, and are built with safety in mind, describes Clean Technica. So, what sets the Polestar 2 apart? It's the perfect alternative for those who want a sporty and capable electric sedan that isn't a Tesla. Here's the kicker: the best version of the Polestar 2 (think all the bells and whistles) also happens to be the most affordable option! That's a win-win for eco-conscious drivers who want all the features without breaking the bank.

Forget flashy electric cars – the Polestar 2 is all about flying under the radar with sophistication. Road and Track gives this electric sedan a thumbs up, praising its ability to stand out without being ostentatious. It uses clean, understated design elements that blend seamlessly into traffic, but don't mistake subtlety for boring! The real shocker? It's the dual-motor option with the Performance Pack also boasts 546 lb.-ft of torque, launching you from zero to 60 in a mind-blowing four point five seconds. Talk about electric power!

Sources we used for our list: 

Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. EdNews is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. 

About Winston McDaniel

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6 Comments

  1. Michael Fallquist says:

    It's not surprising to see Tesla at the top, but with alternatives like Nissan's LEAF, the EV market isn't short on competition. Thanks for sharing!

  2. Bobbye Hammond says:

    Obviously you haven’t seen the Aptera at Aptera.us. If you had, it would be at the top of your list.

    1. Chris says:

      The Aptera hasn't even made it to production yet. But it's a fascinating concept.

  3. Jay Simon says:

    Best EV’s? What a load of S#!t. The Hyundai Ionic 5 & 6, the Kia EV 6 missing? The Bolt takes so long to change a senior citizen has to weigh if he’ll still be alive when it fully recharges! The Leaf is 10 years old for Gods sake.
    BOTH cars are discontinued. I hope you got paid a lot for this propaganda!

    1. Ty says:

      Agree 100% Poor list.

  4. Leroy Achoy says:

    We need to dig huge holes in the earth with Giant Excavators and haul in Huge dirt haulers to save the earth.

    Then there are the hidden costs, the costs you have to dig a little deeper to find. For example, for each EV auto battery, one must process 25,000 pounds of brine for lithium, 30,000 pounds of ore for the cobalt, 5,000 pounds of ore for the nickel and 25,000 pounds of ore for copper. When it is all added, you dig up 500,000 pounds of the earth's crust for just ONE battery.

    Let's examine the mine at Jiangxi, China. The workers use ammonium sulfate poured into big holes to dissolves the clay. The strong ammonium fumes are very damaging to the lungs of the workers, but that is par for the course for Chinese treatment of laborers. Using a number of other noxious, toxic, cancer-causing chemicals, the sludge is processed to remove the just 0.2% rare metals, with the remaining 99.8% contaminated toxic material being dumped back into the originally created hole. It is stated that, “many of these rare earth mining processes also unleash plumes of sulfur dioxide,” a toxic gas, into the atmosphere. Of course people have concerns for aquatic life in nearby rivers and streams.

    Then there is all the lithium that you need. One of the places for obtaining vast amounts of lithium is the Atacama Desert in Chile. This area is filled with subterranean aquifers, which are reserves of fresh water. They need lots of brine (salt water) to refine the lithium, but that is no problem, for they have discovered salt water brine below the fresh water aquifers. So in an area where fresh water is precious, they are jeopardizing the fresh water system by drilling through it to get to the needed brine, so we can make our EVs to save the planet. It is stated that there is a weight of evidence, such as “shrinking pasturelands, failing crops, disappearing flora and fauna,” that all point to a process of desertification, which is being exacerbated by lithium extraction. It is stated, “the impact of disturbing a ‘huge complex hydrological system' is not visible from one day to the next,” but the lithium mining and the desertification “are interlinked without any doubt.”