Electric cars are consistently topping the headlines lately. Pipped as the future of driving, electric vehicles are increasing in popularity, with more and more people flocking to battery electric vehicles (BEVs) as a way of getting around.
It’s worth noting that all of these results are based on claimed manufacturer figures, so expect some changes in the real world as a result of different aspects such as outside temperatures, average speeds and how weighed down with luggage and passengers the cars are.
But which are the best when it comes to range? Let’s take a look.
Tesla Model S 100D – 335 miles
Tesla is one of the biggest names in the electric car game, and there’s good reason for that – it consistently produces plug-in cars which are capable of delivering impressive range and ballistic performance. The 100D version can travel up to 393 miles according to Tesla – though official figures are generated through the old way of testing cars, rather than the new WLTP measures. We’d expect the 100D to easily achieve 300 miles on a single charge, however.
Tesla Model X 100D – 295 miles
A second model in Tesla’s line-up, the Model X 100D uses the same basic platform as the Model S saloon, but as a result of the added weight can’t deliver quite the same range. Still, its claimed 295 miles is plenty enough for longer journeys, while its SUV layout means it can offer more interior space. Again, the Model X was tested using older methods.
Jaguar I-Pace – 292 miles
Jaguar’s I-Pace has already gained critical acclaim across the board, thanks to its combination of performance, decent range and driver involvement. Given that it’s Jag’s first attempt at an electric car it deserves even more praise, and the big cat is capable of travelling up to 292 miles on a single charge, making it an excellent long-distance electric option.
Kia e-Niro – 282 miles
Kia’s e-Niro, on the face of it, looks like any other crossover on the market. However underneath lies a powertrain which is capable of pushing the e-Niro 282 miles on a single charge, putting this £32,995 Kia firmly among the big players in the electric game. You also get Kia’s excellent seven-year warranty with it, so there’s no reason to fear any type of mechanical malady during the early years of ownership.
Mercedes EQC – 280 miles
Merc’s futuristic-looking EQC is one of the latest additions to the electric car range, and combines low running costs with the brand’s well-known premium touches. As well as delivering 280 miles between charges, Mercedes has said that the EQC will crack 0-60mph in under five seconds.
Hyundai Kona Electric – 279 miles
If you want to go even cheaper, then there’s the Hyundai Kona Electric. Priced from £27,250, it’s capable of returning a claimed all-electric range of 279 miles. It’s a striking looking car too, particularly when you consider its dinky size. And, because it’s a Hyundai, there’s tons of standard equipment inside.
Audi E-Tron – 241 miles
Unless you looked closely, you’d do well to differentiate the all-electric Audi E-Tron from any other SUV in the firm’s range. That’ll likely appeal to those who don’t want to shout about their zero-emissions driving from the rooftops – though the big Audi still has presence.
Nissan Leaf E+ – 239 miles
The Nissan Leaf was one of the forefathers of the electric car boom and, though others have now beaten it in terms of overall range, it’s still an attractive proposition. Nissan claims that it’ll manage 239 miles between trips to the plug in its long-distance, E+ form.
Hyundai IONIQ Electric – 174 miles
Hyundai is on a bit of a roll when it comes to electric cars. As well as the Kona Electric it makes this, the IONIQ Electric. Based around a more traditional shape, the IONIQ is a great option who don’t any mad-cat styling for their electric car. It can also do a reasonable 174 miles, which means you’ll be able to fit in most trips without needing to top the battery up.
BMW I3 – 160 miles
BMW’s little i3 looks like it was built years in the future, despite having been on our roads for some time now. Edgy and well-built, it’s capable of driving 160 miles on a charge – so it’s ideal for urban journeys. The interior is well-finished and just as cutting-edge as the exterior, too.