The cost is a major obstacle for drivers considering switching from a petrol or diesel car to an electric one. We have compiled a list of the cheapest electric cars available in 2024. Electric cars are generally more expensive than traditional cars due to the costly materials in their battery packs and electric motors, and manufacturers are not willing to sell them at a loss.
You may simply require a second car that is cost-effective for city driving or using high occupancy vehicle lanes. In these cases, paying for a car with 400 miles of the range may not be necessary when a 200-mile EV would suffice. You may have realized that by the time your lease or loan on a new EV is up, there will be more advanced technology and a larger selection of EVs available.
Additionally, the unexpected cost of installing Level 2 home charging, which is crucial for owning an EV, may have reduced the amount of money you have available for the car itself.
The list of electric vehicles has been updated with new models and price cuts, featuring quadricycles, hatchbacks, and SUVs.
Cheapest Electric Cars in 2024
1. Nissan Leaf – $29,280
The Nissan Leaf is one of the cheapest electric cars that has gained recognition for its environmentally friendly design and impressive driving range. Since its debut in 2010, the Leaf has become a leading option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on fuel costs. With its sleek design and advanced technology features, the Leaf offers a smooth and quiet driving experience that rivals traditional gas-powered vehicles.
The cheapest standard-range Leaf S is equipped with a 40-kilowatt-hour battery and a modest 147-horsepower electric motor. Despite its relatively low power output, the Leaf S offers an EPA-rated 149 miles of range, making it a practical option for daily commuting and short trips. With its affordable price point and eco-friendly design, the Leaf S is a popular choice for those looking to transition to an electric vehicle without breaking the bank.
2. Mini Cooper SE Hardtop – $31,895
The Mini Cooper SE Hardtop is an electric vehicle that combines the iconic style and performance of the Mini Cooper with the benefits of an electric powertrain. With a range of up to 110 miles on a single charge, the Mini Cooper SE Hardtop is the perfect cheap electric car for urban driving and daily commutes.
The interior of the Mini Cooper SE Hardtop is modern and stylish, with high-quality materials and advanced technology features. Overall, the Mini Cooper SE Hardtop offers a blend of eco-friendly driving and classic Mini Cooper charm.
3. Hyundai Kona Electric – $34,050
The Hyundai Kona Electric offers great value for a battery-powered vehicle. The base SE model comes with a 133-hp front-mounted motor and a 48.6-kWh battery, providing an estimated range of around 200 miles. The SEL and Limited trims, priced at $38,050 and $42,420 respectively, have a 201-hp front-mounted motor and a 64.0-kWh battery, giving them an EPA-estimated range of 261 miles.
4. Fisker Ocean Sport – $38,999
The higher-end versions of the Fisker Ocean offer over 300 miles of driving range, but the entry-level front-wheel drive Sport model only has an estimated range of 231 miles, which is less impressive. However, the Ocean Sport makes up for its shorter range with a lower price point starting at under $42,000, compared to the Ultra and Extreme trims which cost over $50,000.
Fisker’s electric car, the Ocean, is facing issues with drive power, braking power, and software, while the company is also struggling financially and may not have enough funds to survive beyond 2024.
5. Tesla Model 3 – $40,380
The next cheapest electric car is Tesla Model 3. The EV is being updated for 2024 with refreshed exterior and interior designs. The Performance trim will return later in the year, but for now, the entry-level model is available in rear-drive and dual-motor all-wheel-drive Long Range versions. Both trims are expected to maintain the efficiency of the 2023 models, which had EPA-estimated ranges of 272 and 358 miles.
While those might be polarizing choices, it’s undeniable that the Model 3 is one of the most affordable options for an EV.
6. Kia Niro EV Wind – $40,975
The 2024 Kia Niro EV is part of a series of hatchbacks that come in electrified-only, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid versions. All models, including the Niro EV, have been fully redesigned for the 2023 model year. The Niro EV for 2024 continues to use the same architecture as its predecessor, featuring front-wheel drive, a 64.8-kWh battery pack, and a 201-hp motor that allows for an estimated maximum range of 253 miles. To get the price mentioned, buyers should opt for the base Niro Wind version, while the fully loaded trim is called the Wave.
7. Hyundai Ioniq 6 – $43,565
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is a futuristic sedan with great value, featuring state-of-the-art battery technology and fast charging capabilities. The SE trim with single-motor RWD offers the highest range at 361 miles. The base trim comes with a variety of standard features including driver-assist technology and smartphone integration. Dual-motor AWD is available as an option for an additional cost, but it does reduce the range.
8. Toyota bZ4X – $44,420
The Toyota bZ4X SUV offers two powertrain options with different battery packs, with the FWD version having a 71.4-kWh battery and the AWD version having a 72.8-kWh battery. The EPA range estimates for 2024 have not been announced yet, but the 2023 model had a range of 222-252 miles depending on configuration. The FWD XLE trim is the cheapest option starting at $44,420.
9. Fiat 500e Inspi(RED) – $34,095
The Fiat 500 hatchback is making a comeback in 2024, but this time it is only available as a battery-electric 500e model. Taking cues from the original 500, the latest 500e comes with a price tag of $34,095, making it one of the most affordable electric vehicle options currently on the market. Unfortunately, there is no government assistance available for the 500e as it does not qualify for the federal tax credit. Additionally, the estimated driving range of 149 miles is not very impressive. But, it is still one of the cheapest electric cars in 2024.
10. Volkswagen ID.4 Standard – $41,160
The Volkswagen ID.4 includes a 58.0-kWh battery pack as standard, providing a driving range of up to 209 miles according to EPA estimates. The more expensive Pro trims feature a 77.0-kWh unit offering up to 291 miles of range. The 2024 ID.4 Standard and S trims remain mostly unchanged, while the Pro models receive updates to the powertrain and some interior enhancements for the 2024 model year.
Others and The Cheapest Electric Cars in the UK
Aside from the electric cars we’ve listed, several other EVs exist, especially in the UK.
- Tesla Model Y – $45,380 – Estimated Range: 242 miles
- Kia EV6 – $43,975 – Estimated Range: 218-310 miles
- Hyundai Ioniq 5 – $43,175 – Estimated Range: 220 miles
- Citroen Ami – £8,495 – Estimated Range: 46 miles
- Dacia Spring – £14,995 – Estimated Range: 137 miles
- Citroen e-C3 – £23,000 – Estimated Range: 199 miles
- BYD Dolphin – £26,140 – Estimated Range: 211-265 miles
- Vauxhall Corsa Electric – £26,895 – Estimated Range: 221 miles
- MG 4 EV – £26,995 – Estimated Range: 218-323 miles
- Mazda MX-30 – £31,250 – Estimated Range: 124 miles
- Vauxhall Mokka Electric – £29,945 – Estimated Range: 209 miles
So, that’s the list of cheapest electric cars in 2024. To get more information about Electric Vehicles, you can visit Wowkia Cars.
