Electric vehicles are gaining popularity due to lower operating costs and an enhanced driving experience. 2023 models offer increased driving ranges and new tech features. This guide explores the top fully-electric options hitting the market next year based on affordable pricing, performance specs, and real-world usability. Whether commuting or taking road trips, several perplexing yet practical choices can fulfil various buyers’ needs with verve.
Chevrolet Bolt EV/EUV
As Chevrolet’s entry-level EVs, the Bolt EV 5-door hatchback and Bolt EUV small SUV return with modest improvements. Both sport a 65 kWh battery providing an estimated range of around 250 miles. The 2023 Chevy Bolt EUV adds standard DC fast charging capability, helping recharge faster on long hauls. Its spacious interior fits families while maintaining an affordable price tag of under $32,000 with available state and federal incentives. For rational daily commuters, this bursty duo delivers the longest designation for the money.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
Winning numerous car of the year awards, the Ioniq 5 raised expectations for alternative propulsion. Riding upon the E-GMP platform, it boasts flexible interior space amid a retro yet modern exterior styling. Single and dual electric motor configurations offer power akin to a V6 engine. The 77.4 kWh battery propels an EPA-estimated 303 miles of range. With 800-volt charging, replenishing from 10-80% takes under 20 minutes. Pricing starts around $45,000 positioning it as a premium bargain.
Kia EV6
Sharing underpinnings with the Ioniq 5, the EV6 constituted Kia’s biggest design departure by adopting an athletic fastback profile. Both rear- and all-wheel drive powertrains provide abundant acceleration. Its 58 kWh battery enables estimates of up to 310 miles depending on the wheels chosen. Interchangeable “Terrain Mode” settings tailor regenerative braking for varying needs like spirited drives or towing small loads. Improved driver assistance aids augment safety-conscious trips through technical perplexities developing rapidly across the electric realm.
Nissan Leaf
Entering its third generation, the radically reimagined 2023 Leaf ditches its prior econobox styling. Peppering an athletic mesh grille and sculpted sides, it’s upscale aesthetic belies the affordable $27,400 base price. Standard 40 kWh and optional 60 kWh batteries deliver improved estimated ranges up to 250 miles, taking range anxiety off the table for most commutes. With prototypes showcasing noteworthy endurance records, this sprightly commuter car holds excitement regarding Nissan’s coming evolution.
Chevrolet Blazer SS
As GM’s Performance brand enters the electric realm, the 2023 Blazer SS promises to be among the quickest SUVs available. Its dual-motor powertrain unleashes 557 horsepower, rocketing from 0-60 mph in under 4 seconds. Standard AWD handles with aplomb amid a vehicle styled to turn heads. Real-world 80% charge times run as little as 10 minutes under ideal rapid-gate conditions. With GM’s new battery partnership innovating cells, estimations push 320+ miles. For thrill-seekers, the Blazer SS emerges as an electrified mountain lion blending practicality and spark.
GMC Hummer EV
Claiming to redefine the off-road genre boundaries, the Hummer EV SUV and pickup debut with astonishing torque enabled through three electric motors. Beyond beastly acceleration modes like Watts to Freedom, drivers toggle between on-road and extreme off-road settings for all conditions with composure. Meanwhile, its battery can provide power for homes during outages or charge other EVs in need paired with a mobile charger. Range ratings approach 350 miles on a full charge. While not inexpensive, capabilities justify the immense outlay for the perpetually perplexed yet perpetually capable.
Rivian R1S & R1T
As the first to market in this category, the R1S SUV and R1T pickup establish benchmarks for blending performance and outdoor adventure. Vast under-floor battery packs endow prodigious torque yet absorb impacts off-road. Aeroscreen upper control interfaces merge advanced tech into the woods with 8 miles of water fording depth. Standard quad-motor AWD ensures accessible trails remain within reach. While Stellantis, Ford, and others react, Rivian differentiates itself via the early establishment of this streamlined electric expedition segment ahead of demand curve shifts.
Ford F-150 Lightning
As a sleek yet brawny incarnation of America’s best-selling nameplate, the Lightning pickup ushers paid functions to a new realm. Standard independent rear suspension optimizes hauling between extended cabin comforts like opportunities for charging. Dual electric motors output horsepower exceeding most gas V8s with silent thrust. The large 131 kWh battery enables up to 300 miles before refilling. With its generator capabilities, Ford integrated versatility homeowners require with plugged-in peace of mind. Trusty trucks gain new purpose through the practical electrification of this American automotive institution.
