Australian attitudes towards electric vehicles are changing. Whether it’s due to the exciting new cars that are hitting our shores or a broader cultural shift towards more sustainable living, one thing is for sure: electric cars are here to stay. In fact, it’s likely the industry will grow exponentially in the coming years.
Here are the top 10 electric cars to keep your eye on in 2021 and beyond.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a family friendly EV and one of the more affordable options on the market at around the $50,000 price point. Reviewers have said it feels smooth and pleasant to drive, much like the brand’s i30, but it lacks the power and torque you might find in other EV models.
The exterior is fairly standard with a design that minimises drag and improves efficiency. The interior is more futuristic, with elements such as drawers in the place of a glove box that make it feel like a livable space.
In a snapshot:
- Price: from $54,000 (plus on-road costs)
- Range: 311km
- Power/Torque: 100kW/295Nm
- Battery: 38.3kWh Lithium Ion
Kia Niro EV
The Kia Niro EV shares much of the technology with the Hyundai Ioniq, but features a roomier design and a more popular SUV shape. The Niro EV is the first fully electric option from Kia, and is also available as hybrid and plug-in hybrid designs.
Reviewers say the Kia Niro is comfortable and pleasant to drive, with all the elements of a family car. It performs well for city driving as well as longer trips with luggage, with a range of 455km.
In a snapshot:
- Price: from $65,990 (plus on-road costs)
- Range: 455km
- Power/Torque: 150kW/395Nm
- Battery: 53.4kWh Lithium Ion
Lexus UX300e
Although they have released several hybrid cars in the past, the UX300e is the first EV offering from Lexus to hit Australian shores. At the $74,000 price mark, it’s more expensive than many of the rivals in this list, though some reviewers consider its luxury features to justify the cost.
With sharp and sporty driving experience and an exquisitely designed interior, the UX300e is an EV for those who value driving in style. The back seating is limited on space, as is the boot, though the main cabin is roomy enough.
In a snapshot:
- Price: from $74,000 (plus on-road costs)
- Range: 315km
- Power/Torque: 150kW/300Nm
- Battery: 53.4kWh Lithium Ion
A highly anticipated release from Mazda, the MX 30 EV is a stylish electric SUV designed for efficient daily commutes and luxurious city driving.
You can test the driving experience yourself at your local Mazda Perth dealership. Reviewers say it is smooth, comfortable and enjoyable, fitting in line with Mazda’s reputation for beautiful cars with a human-centric design.
The exterior is impressively stylish, but so is the interior which features sustainable materials throughout, including cork, recycled fabric and premium faux leather.
In a snapshot:
- Price: from $65,490 (plus on-road costs)
- Range: 200km
- Power/Torque: 107kW/271Nm
- Battery: 35.5kWh Lithium Ion
MG ZS EV
Currently Australia’s cheapest electric car, the MG ZS EV ticks the right boxes when it comes to affordability and low servicing costs. On the down side, the car loses its value quicker than almost every other option on the market.
Although it has a sporty appearance, reviewers have reported the suspension feels stiff and the steering isn’t as responsive as they had hoped. With a range of 263km, the MG ZS EV is ideal for urban driving, but it also boasts of a roomy interior with plenty of boot space.
In a snapshot:
- Price: from $49,990 (plus on-road costs)
- Range: 263km
- Power/Torque: 105kW/353Nm
- Battery: 44.5kWh lithium-ion
Mini Cooper SE
The Mini Cooper SE rates highly for handling and driving experience, as you would expect from the UK company. It’s smaller, lightweight battery means a zippier, more athletic experience behind the wheel.
The main drawbacks for the Mini Cooper SE are a lack of safety features and expensive maintenance costs. Its range is on the shorter side (233km), making it an ideal urban runabout.
In a snapshot:
- Price: from $62,800 (plus on-road costs)
- Range: 233km
- Power/Torque: 135kW/270Nm
- Battery: 32.6kWh lithium-ion
Nissan Leaf e+
Nissan was one of the first brands to bring an EV to Australian shores. The newest Nissan Leaf e+ has more range and power than the first generation. Now offering a 62kW battery pack and up to 385km range, the car appeals to a broader Australian audience.
Although the car has received praise for these changes, many reviewers found the driving experience and power to be disappointing, especially when compared with the more dazzling options in the price bracket.
In a snapshot:
- Price: from $60,490 (plus on-road costs)
- Range: 270km-385km
- Power/Torque: 110kW-160kW/320Nm-340Nm
- Battery: 40kWh-62kWh Lithium Ion
Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 is a popular EV in Australia, and the most affordable offering from the US company. It has a classy exterior and a future-focused interior, including two wireless phone charging docks and hands-free park assist.
Reviewers report excellent handling and plenty of power while driving.The 400km range makes the car appealing for daily commutes as well as longer trips in Australia.
In a snapshot:
- Price: from $59,900 (plus on-road costs)
- Range: 448km
- Power/Torque: 190kW/375Nm
- Battery: 50.9kWh lithium-ion polymer
Ready to go electric?
With more electric options available in Australia, including some with attractive price tags, owning an EV is more realistic than ever. Those who want to jump on board the Tesla wave can do so more easily, while the stylish Mazda MX-30 presents an exciting opportunity for SUV lovers. The best way to see if an EV is right for you is to book a test drive. You might be surprised how quickly you fall in love.
