Approximately 23,000 Australians own electric cars today, less than 2% of the car-owning population. However, in 2021, electric car ownership shot up 62.3%. As more and more Australians look to the EV market, there are many more choices available than there were five or ten years ago.
Electric cars are the future of motoring and gaining momentum across Australia. So, let's take a look at our top ten choices for electric cars in Australia in 2022. No matter your budget and preferences, there's something for everyone on our list. You don't have to spend a fortune on a Tesla; we've got plenty of more affordable options available.
With such a wide range of electric cars available on the market in Australia, you'll find an EV to suit your needs. Technological advances mean that today's electric cars compare with traditional combustion engine cars in terms of mileage, cost, and speeds.
Moreover, EVs have a reputation as expensive cars only for the wealthy. While Teslas are double what most people spend on a vehicle, most electric cars are actually highly affordable. Indeed, if you live in Queensland, you may be eligible for a $3,000 EV subsidy. We can help you finance your electric car.
So, without further ado, what are the top ten electric cars in Australia?
Tesla is a prestige brand and perhaps makes the best electric cars on the market. As Australia's favourite EV, it offers a strong driving range and a high level of features not seen in any other electric vehicle.
Features include free software updates, hands-free parking assistance, and two charging pads. It can accelerate from 0 - 100km in 3.3 seconds—the quickest acceleration we've yet seen.
The only drawback of the Tesla Model 3 is the cost. However, as an entry-level Tesla, it's relatively affordable compared to Tesla's other ranges. And if you can afford it, the price is well worth it. The Tesla Model 3 is a convenient, safe, and technologically advanced EV. Defying the stereotype, the Model 3 can go long distances on a single charge.
Price: from $63,900
Range: 448km
Battery: 50.9kWh lithium-ion polymer
Energy consumption: 13.2 kWh / 100km
Max speed: 261 kmh
The MG ZS EV is the cheapest fully electric car available at the moment. A somewhat surprising EV from MG, it proves that you don't have to break the bank to drive an electric vehicle. Of course, the lower price means you won't get all the benefits and features Tesla offers, but it's an excellent choice for anyone looking for affordability.
Perhaps the biggest drawback of the ZS EV is its resale value. Unlike its competitors, it doesn't have LED headlights, automatic wipers, or digital radio—all features we might expect as a given.
Price: from $44,990
Range: 263km
Battery: 44.5kWh lithium-ion
Energy consumption: 18.6 kWh / 100km
Max speed: 140 kmh
Hyundai's Kona is a consistent choice. While it's not the cheapest like the MG ZS EV, or the fastest, like the Model 3, it exchanges being the best for being one of the more stable choices. It maintains a balance of price, range, and tech. Accordingly, it is one of the best value for money choices. Moreover, its range is almost 500km, a competitive feat.
With cruise control, heated seats, and a parking assistance system, the Kona is suitable for the average EV buyer.
Price: from $54,500
Range: 484km
Battery: 64kWh lithium-ion polymer
Energy consumption: 14.7 kWh / 100km
Max speed: 167 kmh
The Swedish Polestar is a solid attempt at a Tesla Model 3 rival. It delivers quality, style, and an engaging drive. With a saloon look but the convenience of a five-door hatchback, the Polestar 2 has a unique and stylish shape with family practicality.
Its speed is pretty impressive but far outmatched by the Tesla Model 3. However, the low running costs and solid range make it a good family choice. Features include LED headlights, built-in Google software, and high-performance audio.
Price: from $59,900
Range: 442km
Battery: 78kWh 400 V lithium-ion
Energy consumption: 19.3 kWh / 100km
Max speed: 205 kmh
The Porsche Taycan is an expensive option but proof that German sports cars can go fully electric. With great range, excellent dynamics, and incredible acceleration, it's a strong contender in the EV market. The battery can charge to 80% in just over 20 minutes. It has a striking appearance and high-tech interior, making it a solid rival to the Tesla Model 3.
The Taycan model has a dual electric feature, powering the front and rear wheels. Plus, you can customise your Porsche with luxurious extras, such as a four-zone climate control, massaging front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel.
Price: from $156,300
Range: 410km
Battery: 79.2 - 93.4 kWh 800 V lithium-ion
Energy consumption: 26.9 kWh / 100 km
Max speed: 260 kmh
BMW was one of the early car manufacturers to embrace electric technology. Their i3 entered the market about ten years ago. The iX is a far more impressive output from BMW. With an excellent range and driving dynamics, it's worthy of consideration. It's highly comfortable and has first-rate technology.
While other premium EVs might have better speeds or tech, no other car offers the same complete package. With 21-inch alloy wheels, four-zone climate control, and heated front seats, the BMW iX doesn't disappoint.
Price: from $135,900
Range: 489km
Battery: 111.5 kWh lithium-ion
Energy consumption: 26.6 kWh / 100 km
Max speed: 199 kmh
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is visually seven impressive and future-proofed for advances in EV technology. This all-electric family car is different from the rest of the pack. Hyundai maintains its status as the leader of the practical family electric car. It's their first car to use the new Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), paving the way for their next generation of EVs.
Features include 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, smart cruise control, rear parking sensors, and climate control. The Ioniq 5's energy consumption is pretty high, but it has an excellent range for the price.
Price: from $71,900
Range: 480km
Battery: 77.4kWh lithium-ion polymer
Energy consumption: 30.9 kWh / 100 km
Max speed: 185 kmh
Kia's EV6 is a capable family-friendly car. With an excellent range, a sporty feel, and a great range of features on the standard package, the EV6 is one of the best electric cars you can buy in 2022. It's sleek and stylish. Kia has bold plans to become fully electric and carbon-neutral in the next few decades—the EV6 sets it off with a strong start.
Like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the EV6 uses the all-new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). Even the standard Air line comes with 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, leather upholstery, heated front seats, twin 12.3-inch curved displays, an integrated sat-nav, a reversing camera, and phone connectivity.
Price: from $67,990
Range: 394km
Battery: 77.4-kWh lithium-ion polymer
Energy consumption: 16.5 kWh / 100 km
Max speed: 260 kmh
The Volvo XC40 Recharge is an all-electric rival to Hyundai's Kona. Volvo's XC40 is a strong contender in the EV market with a great range, charging specs, and excellent features. It's much faster than you would expect while remaining roomy and comfortable.
Practically speaking, it's much the same as its combustion alternative. However, the electric version goes further to reduce its environmental impact, with door linings and carpets made 97% from recycled plastic bottles. It has Google's Assistant and Maps built-in. While the boot is smaller than other models, it remains a practical, family-friendly electric vehicle choice.
Price: from $76,990
Range: 360km
Battery: 78kWh 400 V lithium-ion
Energy consumption: 23.8 - 25 kWh / 100 km
Max speed: 180 kmh
The Nissan Leaf is one of Australia's most stable and constant EVs. The Nissan Leaf is a decent car. However, when compared to what else is on offer, it lacks the spark of other EVs. You won't find power-operated driver's seats or a sunroof in this small hatchback. Like the MG ZS EV, its resale value is pretty poor.
That said, the Nissan Leaf remains an affordable, reliable, family-friendly option. If you're looking for an inexpensive EV, consider the Nissan Leaf. Plus, it's one of the few EVs that offer two-way charging.
Price: from $49,990
Range: 385km
Battery: 62kWh lithium-ion
Energy consumption: 18.0kWh/100km
Max speed: 144 kmh
We're only a few months into 2022; there are plenty of exciting models coming in the next year. You'll want to pay attention to the BYD Atto 3, the Tesla Model Y, the Mercedes-Benz EQE, and the Hyundai Ioniq 6. To begin your EV journey, speak to one of our team today to see how we can help you finance your all-new electric car.