The best electric cars 2024 | RAC Drive (2024)

Electric cars are an increasingly common sight. More than 300,000 new electric vehicles (EVs) where sold in 2023 and the RAC estimate there are around 980,000 zero-emission battery cars on the UK's roads,

Exempt from road tax and delivering lower running costs, the best electric cars are easy to drive and comfortable. There is also a wide choice of models, with the best EVs capable of exceeding 300 miles on a full battery charge.

We bring you our list of the best performing and best value electric vehicles (EVs) available in 2024.

Volkswagen ID.3

The ID.3 will change the way you think about Volkswagen. And, the brand hopes, it'll change the way you think about affordable electric cars.

This contender is priced, shaped and designed right for the heart of the family segment of the growing EV sector and, unlike previous battery-powered Volkswagens, it's completely new from the ground up.

The ID.3is loaded with smart technology like it's unique ID. Light that greets you as you make your approach. It alsoprompts you for upcoming navigation commands, indicates when you have a phone call coming in, and flashes red as a braking prompt when it senses an obstruction ahead.

For all of itstech and neat packaging, the most exciting selling point could be the price. The German manufacturers have delivered a family-sized all-electric vehicle that’s just as affordable as conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) options.

Range:Up to 347miles

Read our in-depthVolkswagen ID.3 review.

Tesla Model 3

Before the Model 3, Tesla earned a reputation for building new cars in a high price bracket, but this model is designed to shift more units to the masses.

The Model 3 comes with a sleek interior, similar to the Model X, and an enviable infotainment system that even boasts video gaming capability (while parked upof course), all at a more wallet-friendly price.

The dual motor vehicle offers all-wheel drive and boasts a super-strength body too. The panoramic all-glass roof not only looks great but resists four times its own weight – the equivalent of two fully-grown African elephants!

In February, Statista reported that it was the world’s most popular plug-in EV, with roughly 501,000 units sold in 2021.

Range:Up to 421miles

Read our in-depthTesla Model 3 review.

Nissan LEAF

Since its release in 2011, Nissan have continued to tweak charging times and driving range on the LEAF to offer a family car that’s both practical and cheap to run.

After more than a decade on the road, the vehicle comes with a few smart extras too. The Acenta trim includes a smart e-Pedal that allows drivers to start, accelerate, decelerate and stop using only the accelerator pedal.

The N-Connecta versionadds an intelligent Around View Monitor providing a 360º picture of your surroundings with added Moving Object Detection.

Range:Up to 239miles

Read our in-depthNissan LEAF review.

Mercedes-Benz EQA

Mercedes’ first fully electric compact SUV packs all the elegance we’ve come to expect from the German manufacturers into a new distinctive silhouette.

The suave vehicle will even charge from 10% to 80% in half an hour, when using a 100kW rapid charger.

If you prefer your luxury SUVs on the larger side, there’s always the option to pick up the keys to anEQC. The electric 4x4 offers a competitive driving range, smart driver assistance features and all-important added leg room.

Range:Up to 264 miles

Read our in-depthMercedes-Benz EQA review.

Hyundai IONIQ Electric

Hyundai believes that the Nissan LEAF has had its own way for far too long in the affordable part of the slowly growing full-electric car segment.

They've aimed this full-Electric IONIQ model directly at that car, as well as at other more recently introduced key segment models like the Volkswagen ID.3. On paper, this car certainly seems to offer a package that eco-minded buyers in this class will want to consider.

The IONIQ is instantly recognisable thanks to its distinctive dummy grille – a fascia in place of the usual metal radiator.

Inside, the South Korean EV offers all the mod cons you might expect, including a touch screen entertainment system and smart assisted driving technology.

New models are sold with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty and five annual vehicle health checks, making this affordable family car practical too.

Range:Up to 193 miles

Read our in-depthHyundai IONIQ Electric review

MG ZS EV

Looking for a compact family-sized full-electric model with zero emissions and the rapid responses characteristic of today's EVs? Here's the most affordable option you could consider, the MG ZS EV.

It's an SUV, it's sensibly priced and it's well equipped. If ultimate driving range capacity isn't a top priority and you're buying on a budget, you might rather like it.

The car includes a spacious interior and a panoramic sunroof on the Exclusive trim for a pleasant and comfortable ride. There’s even a generous 470-litre boot.

An impressive seven-year warranty makes the ZS EV a tempting option for the money-conscious buyer.

Range:Up to 273 miles

Read our in-depthMG ZS EV review

MINI Electric

If you’ve always wanted to own the iconic Mini but thought your next car should be electric, you can do both.

The cult classic takes 36 minutes to charge from 0% to 80% and looks almost identical to the conventional ICE-powered vehicle.

There are four trims available, with the full spec Collection offering wireless phone charging and automated parking. Most impressive of all could be the eight-year or 100,000-mile warranty.

Range:Up to 145 miles

Read our in-depthMINI Electric review

Peugeot e-208

Peugeot’s all-electric supermini looks snappy and covers a competitive 225 miles between charges. On-board technology includes a 3D instrument panel and a wireless charging cubbyhole for your phone.

If you’re a fan of the e-208’s slick exterior but crave a little more room, thee-2008could be the car for you.

It has a similar range, interior, and good looks but drivers sit higher in Peugeot’s SUV counterpart and the boot is almost 50% larger – the ideal family car.

Range:Up to 248miles

Read our in-depthPeugeot e-208review

Honda e

If you want an electric car that feels different from a conventional ICE-powered vehicle, look no further than the e.

Honda’s supermini is designed to be a city run-around and is filled with charismatic touches that set it apart from the competition.

These include digital wing mirrors inside the cab and the distinctive dash where drivers and passengers can swap controls of the infotainment system with two 12-inch displays.

Overall, a charming and boldly designed car that will appeal to early adopters.

Range:Up to 137 miles

Read our in-depthHonda e review

Polestar 2

You might not have heard of Polestar, the brand for uniquely designed electric cars is actually owned by Volvo's parent company. Their five-door hatch is built for the premium EV buyer and has already earned a reputation for its good looks and impressive safety rating – Euro NCAP’s highest in 2021.

The impressive 335-mile range is only available on the long-range single motor model but does sound very tempting for frequent road trippers. With 360ºcameras, Park Assist and unique frameless wing mirrors there are plenty of interesting extras too.

Range:Up to 406miles

Read our in-depth review of Polestar 2

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