The market for the most affordable electric cars continues to grow and improve, with several new models now available for under $40,000.
Many entry-level EVs are becoming more budget-friendly (even before applying tax incentives), whereas their internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts are gradually increasing in price.
Advancements in technology and supply chain efficiencies play a significant role in these price reductions, but the most significant factor is likely automakers adjusting to demand.
Notably absent from this list is Tesla, which has been significantly undercut by traditional automakers.
This shift has likely contributed to Tesla’s recent decline in sales, as models like the Equinox EV continue to gain popularity. To provide the most comprehensive overview, this list includes crossover SUVs.
10. 2025 Volkswagen ID4
Estimated Starting Price: $41,760
Several key updates are expected to make the 2025 Volkswagen ID4 a more user-friendly option compared to previous model years.
The biggest improvements include revised switchgear and infotainment controls, addressing some of the most criticized aspects of earlier versions of Volkswagen’s most affordable electric offering in the U.S.
In 2024, the ID4 also received a power boost for models equipped with the 82-kWh battery up to 282 horsepower for the rear-wheel-drive version and 330 horsepower for all-wheel-drive variants.
Additionally, all 2025 ID4 models will feature the larger 12.9-inch touchscreen. The strengths of the base model remain unchanged, with highlights such as a spacious cabin, a smooth and comfortable ride, and easy drivability.
Pros:
- Plush front seats
- Small turning radius
- Quiet and comfortable ride
Cons:
- Frustrating infotainment system and controls
- Some low-quality interior materials
- No one-pedal driving
Specifications:
- Range: 209–291 miles
- Peak Charging Speed: 135 kW
- Legroom (front/rear): 41.1/37.6 inches
- Cargo Volume (seats up/down): 30.3/64.2 cubic feet
- 0–60 mph Acceleration: 5.2 seconds (Pro S AWD)
- Base Battery Size: 62 kWh
9. 2025 Nissan Ariya
Estimated Starting Price: $41,500
The 2025 Nissan Ariya offers a spacious and premium-feeling interior, making it a strong value-for-money option. Its exterior design is also appealing, but its true strengths lie inside the cabin.
For buyers prioritizing comfort and practicality over outright speed, the Ariya is an attractive choice. However, while it performs well compared to ICE crossovers, it doesn’t particularly stand out among its electric counterparts.
The Ariya lacks one-pedal driving, charges at a relatively slow rate, and offers a range that, while decent, is far from segment-leading.
If an upscale yet affordable EV interior is your priority, the Ariya is a solid option. However, for those who need long-distance range and fast-charging capability, it falls short.
Pros:
- High-quality, spacious interior
- Comfortable front seats
- Effective ProPilot Assist system
Cons:
- No one-pedal driving
- Slow charging speed
- Could benefit from a longer range
Specifications:
- Range: 205–304 miles
- Peak Charging Speed: 130 kW
- Legroom (front/rear): 42.3/37.0 inches
- Cargo Volume (seats up/down): 21.0 cubic feet
- 0–60 mph Acceleration: 5.0 seconds (Platinum+ e-4orce)
- Base Battery Size: 63 kWh
Also Read: 10 Affordable Cars With the Best Long-Term Reliability for 2025 Buyers
8. 2025 Kia Niro EV
Estimated Starting Price: $40,600
If spending in the low $40,000 range for a compact hatchback seems steep, you’re not alone in thinking so. That’s one of the challenges facing the 2025 Kia Niro EV.
While this stylish and practical EV offers a spacious interior and a wealth of standard features, it struggles to compete with other affordable electric cars that cost less, deliver better handling, and charge at a much faster rate.
The Niro EV’s maximum charging speed of 85 kW about half of what most competitors offer is a significant drawback.
Although this latest generation of the Niro EV improves upon its predecessor in several meaningful ways, it still doesn’t do enough to set itself apart in a crowded field.
As a result, while the Niro EV remains one of the cheapest electric options available, it doesn’t quite offer the best overall value, despite its eye-catching design and generous cabin space.
Pros:
- Respectable driving range
- Well-equipped with standard features
- Bold, stylish exterior design
Cons:
- Slow peak charging speed
- Previous generation had more torque
- Stronger, more affordable competitors exist
Specifications:
- Range: 253 miles
- Peak Charging Speed: 85 kW
- Legroom (front/rear): 41.5/36.9 inches
- Cargo Volume (seats up/down): 22.8/63.7 cubic feet
- 0–60 mph Acceleration: 6.7 seconds (Wave)
- Base Battery Size: 64.8 kWh
7. 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 6
Estimated Starting Price: $38,900
With its sleek, flowing shape reminiscent of classic Porsche and Volkswagen curves, the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 6 has a design that can be described as retro-futuristic.
While its styling may be polarizing, it serves a functional purpose the Ioniq 6 boasts an impressive aerodynamic profile with a 0.22 drag coefficient, enhancing efficiency and extending range.
The base Standard Range model, priced under $40,000, comes with a smaller 53-kWh battery and produces 149 horsepower, allowing for an EPA-estimated 240-mile range.
Higher trims, equipped with 77.4-kWh batteries, push that range up to an impressive 342 miles.
The cabin provides generous legroom, but the trade-offs include lower-quality interior materials and a relatively small cargo area compared to rivals.
However, the Ioniq 6 does offer a smoother ride than the Tesla Model 3 and delivers surprisingly agile handling.
Pros:
- More refined ride than the Tesla Model 3
- Impressive range and rapid charging speeds
Cons:
- Interior feels uninspired
- Unconventional design may not appeal to everyone
Specifications:
- Range: 240–342 miles
- Peak Charging Speed: 239 kW
- Legroom (front/rear): 42.3/39.2 inches
- Cargo Volume: 11.6 cubic feet
- 0–60 mph Acceleration: 6.0 seconds (RWD Long Range SE)
- Base Battery Size: 53 kWh
6. 2025 Volvo EX30
Estimated Starting Price: $36,145
As the second most affordable EV from a European brand, the 2025 Volvo EX30 is set to play a unique role when it begins arriving in the hands of buyers.
Expected to land sometime in 2024, this budget-friendly electric SUV still manages to exude style, thanks to Volvo’s signature design elements.
The base model boasts an impressive estimated range of 275 miles, while the high-performance variant promises to be the quickest Volvo ever sold in the U.S., accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds.
Its fold-flat rear seats add a layer of practicality, but the ultra-minimalist interior may look sleek while proving less intuitive to use in everyday operation.
Pros:
- Eye-catching design
- Solid range estimates
- Accessible starting price
Cons:
- Lacks sufficient physical controls
- Must wait for the Cross Country variant
Specifications:
- Range: 265–275 miles (manufacturer estimate)
- Peak Charging Speed: 153 kW (AWD)
- Legroom (front/rear): Not yet released
- Cargo Volume (seats down): 31.9 cubic feet
- 0–60 mph Acceleration: 3.4 seconds (Twin Motor Performance)
- Base Battery Size: 69 kWh
5. 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV
Estimated Starting Price: $34,995
Following the discontinuation of the Bolt EV and EUV both set to return soon the most affordable General Motors EV is now the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV.
Built on the same cutting-edge EV technology (previously referred to as Ultium) that underpins the Blazer, Hummer, and Silverado EVs, this budget-friendly electric SUV sports a sleek, futuristic design.
Available features include a head-up display, Super Cruise advanced driver assistance system, and a massive 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen. However, opting for additional features will quickly drive up the price.
That said, the Equinox EV remains one of the most affordable electric crossovers to offer over 300 miles of estimated range for under $40,000.
Notably, the base front-wheel-drive model provides a longer range than its all-wheel-drive counterparts.
Pros:
- Competitive base price
- Impressive range estimates
- Large, high-tech screens
Cons:
- Lower-priced trims lack certain features
- Charging speed lags behind competitors
- Base model will be released later than other variants
Specifications:
- Range: 285–319 miles (manufacturer estimate)
- Peak Charging Speed: 150 kW
- Legroom (front/rear): 41.6/38.0 inches
- Cargo Volume (seats up/down): 26.4/57.2 cubic feet
- 0–60 mph Acceleration: 5.7 seconds (AWD RS)
- Base Battery Size: 85 kWh
4. 2025 Fiat 500e
Estimated Starting Price: $34,345
In an unexpected turn, the 2025 Fiat 500e is making a comeback. However, nearly every aspect of this seemingly affordable EV is limited whether it’s range, power, interior space, or overall performance.
Fiat estimates that this budget-friendly electric car will have an EPA-rated range of just 149 miles.
While the 500e’s specs are underwhelming compared to other EVs, it makes up for those shortcomings with a high fun factor.
This electric hatchback zips through city streets with agility, much like a purpose-built hot hatch. Plus, it has a unique charm that, for some buyers, may outweigh its on-paper limitations.
Pros:
- The classic Fiat 500 returns with electric power
- Adorable retro-inspired styling
- Lively and entertaining driving dynamics
Cons:
- Limited driving range
- Tight rear seating area
- Navigation system can be frustrating to use
Specifications:
- Range: 141 miles
- Peak Charging Speed: 85 kW
- Legroom (front/rear): 41.8/29.4 inches
- Cargo Volume (seats up/down): 7.5 cubic feet
- 0–60 mph Acceleration: 7.9 seconds (Inspired by Music trim)
- Base Battery Size: 42 kWh
3. 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric
Estimated Starting Price: $34,010
A blend of stylish design, practicality, and an easygoing nature makes the 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric a solid value at its affordable price point.
This compact, front-wheel-drive EV includes vehicle-to-load capability, allowing its battery to serve as a power source for external devices or even as a home backup.
Cargo space is generous for a subcompact crossover, making it a functional choice. However, the base model only offers 200 miles of range, while the Long Range version significantly improves that figure to 261 miles.
Despite its SUV-like shape, the absence of all-wheel drive makes it feel more like an elevated hatchback rather than a true crossover.
Pros:
- Modern and forward-thinking interior and exterior design
- Spacious cabin for a subcompact EV
- Choice between two battery options
Cons:
- Base model’s specs are less impressive
- Larger battery comes with a higher price tag
- No all-wheel-drive option available
Specifications:
- Range: 200–261 miles
- Peak Charging Speed: 100 kW
- Legroom (front/rear): 41.7/36.4 inches
- Cargo Volume (seats up/down): 1.0/25.5 cubic feet
- 0–60 mph Acceleration: 6.6 seconds (Ultimate trim)
- Base Battery Size: 48.6 kWh
2. 2025 Mini Cooper Electric
Estimated Starting Price: $33,050
Ranking as the second-cheapest electric vehicle available, the 2025 Mini Cooper Electric is set to impress with its sharp handling, stylish design, and fast-charging capabilities.
The Cooper E and Cooper SE mark Mini’s renewed commitment to EVs following the previous-generation Mini Cooper SE, which, despite being enjoyable, didn’t gain much traction.
Both models retain Mini’s signature front-wheel-drive setup, with the base Cooper E delivering 184 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque, while the sportier Cooper SE produces 218 horsepower and 243 lb-ft.
However, for those hoping for a high-performance John Cooper Works version, the current iteration is more about aesthetic enhancements, with stickers and a body kit rather than mechanical upgrades.
Pros:
- Rapid charging speeds
- Expected to offer nimble and engaging driving dynamics
- Unique circular touchscreen adds a fresh tech touch
Cons:
- Other EVs provide longer range
- Could become expensive with added options
- Bold styling may not appeal to those who prefer a subtler look
Specifications:
- Range: TBD
- Peak Charging Speed: 75–95 kW
- Legroom (front/rear): TBD
- Cargo Volume (seats up/down): TBD
- 0–60 mph Acceleration: 6.7 seconds (manufacturer estimate)
- Base Battery Size: 40.7 kWh
Also Read: 10 Rare Electric Cars That Could Become Future Collectibles
1. 2025 Nissan Leaf
Estimated Starting Price: $29,280
While new Chevrolet Bolt models may still be available at dealerships while inventory lasts, the most affordable electric car officially on sale in the U.S. is the 2025 Nissan Leaf.
In an EV market filled with high-priced, long-range options boasting massive battery packs, the Leaf keeps things simple and budget-friendly. The base model delivers just 149 miles of range, reflecting its lower price point.
However, opting for the upgraded version with a larger battery extends the range to 214 miles. Regardless of configuration, expect a comfortable, soft ride rather than sporty handling.
One potential drawback is the Leaf’s CHAdeMO DC charging standard, which is becoming increasingly outdated as the U.S. transitions to Tesla’s NACS format.
While this won’t be an issue for home charging or in the near future, it may become a concern down the road for those relying on public fast chargers.
Pros:
- Compact size and easy maneuverability make it ideal for city driving
- Comes equipped with useful driver assistance features
- One of the few EVs available for under $30,000
Cons:
- Limited range and slow charging speeds
- Interior feels dated with lower-quality materials
- A next-generation model is expected to arrive soon
Specifications:
- Range: 149–214 miles
- Peak Charging Speed: 50 kW
- Legroom (front/rear): 42.1/33.5 inches
- Cargo Volume (seats up/down): 23.6/30.0 cubic feet
- 0–60 mph Acceleration: 6.7 seconds (SV Plus trim)
- Base Battery Size: 40 kWh