Every year, more and more electric vehicles are introduced to the market as the range increases and prices decrease. Owners of electric vehicles may take advantage of federal tax credits and state incentives to reduce the overall cost of ownership.
This article will help you evaluate and pick between the best electric vehicles (EVs) under $40k that will be available in 2022.
The Benefits of Using an Electric Vehicle
About 1.8 million people have already moved to electric vehicles, and 39% of persons in the United States who were questioned stated they would consider buying an electric car in the future.
The primary advantages of electric cars (EVs) over traditional gas-powered vehicles are reduced operating costs and less pollution. Throughout the vehicle’s lifespan, EVs may save drivers money in more ways than one.
No longer need to worry about running out of juice while driving, thanks to longer battery life and more readily accessible charging stations. The engines provide a more peaceful drive, swifter acceleration, and sharper steering. Due to electric motors’ ability to provide torque and horsepower directly to the wheels, EVs outperform gas-powered cars in these categories.
1. 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV
The Chevrolet Bolt EUV is an SUV-inspired variant of the standard Bolt that will debut in 2022. However, there is less luggage capacity since the cabin is more significant. The exterior’s robust design offers a more conventional but still distinctive Bolt EV appeal and is available in metallic colors.
Every Bolt EUV model may enjoy the benefits of Super Cruise’s semi-autonomous driving capabilities on roads with a maximum speed limit of 86 mph. The Bolt EUV has a level-two charging capacity of 11.5 kilowatts and a rated range of 247 miles per charge. The base price is $33,500 MSRP.
2. 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV Redesigned for 2022
The 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV is a hatchback with more inside space than you may expect from its compact exterior. Like the Bolt EUV, the Bolt EV has Super Cruise driver assistance technology and an estimated range of 259 miles on a single charge.
The year 2022 also sees a complete makeover of the vehicle. The exterior is futuristic in its sheet metal and updated in its lines. At the same time, the inside is premium in its design, using superior materials and boasting a completely digital instrument cluster.
This little EV packs a powerful punch, going from 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds and offering up to 200 horsepower. Prices start at $31,500 (MSRP).
3. 2022 Nissan LEAF S
The 2022 Nissan LEAF S has plenty of storage capacity and fold-down rear seats in its sleek and large cabin. Technology like semi-autonomous driving, door-to-door navigation, speech recognition, and connectivity with both Android and Apple devices are also available to drivers.
The LEAF may have been an early pioneer in the EV market. Still, it now has a disappointing projected range of just 149 miles and weak output of 147 horsepower.
Though it falls short in power and range, the LEAF S attracts buyers thanks to its affordable pricing. The starting MSRP is just $27,400.
4. 2022 Nissan LEAF S Plus
Compared to the standard LEAF S, the 2022 Nissan Leaf S Plus is more luxurious. It comes equipped with an automated temperature control system and an eight-inch infotainment system that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The engine in the S Plus is more potent, producing 214 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. With a 226-mile range, it’s also a better value. A base price of $32,400 is set for the 2022 Nissan LEAF S Plus.
5. 2022 Nissan LEAF SL Plus
The 2022 Nissan LEAF SL Plus is the highest-end model available and will cost you a minimum of $35,400. The inside is plusher than those of lower-tier models, with features like leather upholstery, a high-end Bose sound system, ProPilot Assist, and a detachable cargo cover. The LEAF SL Plus has the same interior technology as the other LEAF grades, including door-to-door navigation and an eight-inch infotainment system.
214 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque are provided by the SL Plus engine, matching those of the S Plus. Powered by a lithium-ion battery pack with a capacity of 62-kilowatt hours, it can reportedly go up to 215 miles before recharge.
6. 2022 Mazda MX-30 EV
The 2022 Mazda MX-30 EV represents Mazda’s debut in the EV market. This EV stands out from the crowd because of its sleek new design and high-quality, eco-friendly materials. The 8.8-inch screen is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Although it only has an estimated 100 miles of range per charge, it can be fully charged in only 36 minutes using a level three DC charger, which is a significant plus. The MX-30 is only capable of 143 horsepower and gives a poky driving experience. The initial MSRP is $33,470, and this car is available only in California.
7. 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric
The Hyundai Kona Electric 2022 is a plug-in hybrid version of the standard Kona. Although the Kona Electric lacks all-wheel drive, it has a respectable 258-mile range, 201 horsepower, and 291 pound-feet of torque. With a 100-kilowatt charger, it may be fully powered up in as little as 47 minutes.
It has a sleek and contemporary interior and amenities like a large eight-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto connectivity, and plenty of storage space. The base MSRP is $34,000.
8. 2022 Volkswagen ID.4
Some people see the 2022 Volkswagen ID.4 as the electric continuation of the original Volkswagen Beetle. The ID.4 boasts a comfortable ride with a clean and large interior design, a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and intuitive technologies.
The ID.4 combines form and function with its 201 hp and 280-mile projected range. It can get 70 miles of juice on a DC fast charger in 10 minutes. Despite a base MSRP of $41,230, the ID.4 may get up to $7,500 in federal tax credits, bringing the final price to around $40,000.
9. 2023 Mini Cooper SE Electric Hardtop Signature
The base price of the 2023 Mini Cooper SE Electric Hardtop is approximately $33,900, making it one of the least expensive electric cars available. It now comes standard with luxury features like LED headlights and Union Jack taillights. It has updated technology, including an intelligent steering wheel and driving assistance.
With an estimated range of 114 miles and 181 horsepower, this EV is built more for show than function. This electric go-kart is better suited for short trips around town than long-distance commuting.
10. 2022 Kia Niro EV
When you’re behind the wheel of a 2022 Kia Niro EV, you’ll have access to a split-screen feature on the 10.25-inch touchscreen display and a relaxing crossover driving environment. There are 53 cubic feet of storage space within, and the futuristic appearance is achieved partly by using blue accents throughout.
The Kia Niro EV is a strong contender for those seeking a full EV experience, with its up to 239-mile range, 201-horsepower output, and 291-pound-feet of torque. An initial suggested retail price of $39,990 applies.
11. 2022 Audi Q4 40 E-Tron Premium
Audi has released several electric cars in the past several years, including the brand-new 2022 Audi Q4 40 E-Tron Premium. This EV provides a high-end driving experience typical of Audis thanks to its touch-sensitive controls, toggle-switch gear selector, and 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen. The Q4 40 also has advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking.
The electric vehicle can go from 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds and has 295 horsepower. For a high-performance and low-maintenance ride, the 82-kilowatt-hour battery can power an estimated range of 241 miles. The base price is $49,900, but with federal tax credits and other discounts, it is possible to pay less than $40,000.
Featured Image: Pexels © Mike B
