The ongoing business impact of the coronavirus pandemic has slowed auto development and production, but manufacturers’ plans to introduce electric vehicles (EVs) continue unabated. In fact, dozens of pure electric models are set to debut by the end of 2024.
On the menu are cars and an increasing number of SUVs and pickups. And there will be a broader array of plug-in hybrid models, which can run on mostly electric power for a stretch before a gasoline engine kicks in and operates the vehicle more like a traditional hybrid.
The rollout of new EV and plug-in hybrid models across different segments is good news for consumers looking for an alternative-fuel vehicle that will fit their needs.
Below is a rundown of some of the models that are worth watching for in the next couple of years. The list is alphabetical by automaker. Prices are estimates in most cases.
Safety term glossary: AEB = automatic emergency braking; BSW = blind spot warning; LDW = lane departure warning; LKA = lane keeping assistance; RCTW = rear cross traffic warning.
See our EV buying guide and ratings. And check for EV incentives.
Afeela Sedan
Honda formed a joint venture with Sony to produce battery electric vehicles together under the brand Afeela. The first prototype, shown at CES in January 2023, features electronics galore, including 45 cameras and sensors. It previews a production model. Sony Honda Mobility announced that orders would begin in 2025, with deliveries scheduled for 2026.
Cadillac Lyriq
The 2024 Cadillac Lyriq showcases next-generation styling for the brand and introduces a new modular electric platform. It’s roughly the length and width of the Cadillac XT6 SUV. But the Lyriq has a much different profile, being 6 inches lower in height and riding on a wheelbase that’s 9 inches longer. The dominant feature in the cabin is a curved 33-inch LED display that stretches from the instrument panel all the way to where the infotainment screen is traditionally placed. This builds on the presentation found in the 2021 Cadillac Escalade, which has a 38-inch curved OLED display. The initial Lyriq is a 340-hp, rear-drive model with a 100-kilowatt-hour battery, a combination that provides an EPA-rated 312 miles of range. An AWD version with about 500 hp will follow.
Cost: $58,590 to $76,305
On sale: Spring 2023
Learn more about the Cadillac Lyriq.
Chevrolet Blazer EV
The Blazer EV is based on GM’s Ultium platform, which underpins the automaker’s latest electric models. This midsized SUV will meet the competition, notably the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Volkswagen ID.4, and Hyundai-Kia pair, in terms of price, functionality, and range. It will be offered in several trims, initially starting with the 2LT trim for $47,595 with a 293-mile estimated range. The sporty RS trim will have an estimated 320-mile range, and an SS will tout 557 hp and an estimated 290-mile range. A lower-priced 1LT will join the following year. The cockpit is fitted with two large screens: an 11-inch instrument panel display and a 17.7-inch infotainment screen. Features and services can be personalized and upgraded using GM’s Ultifi software. The Blazer EV comes with FCW, AEB with pedestrian detection, LKA, LDW, and ACC. Super Cruise and other ADAS features will be optional.
Cost: $47,595 to $65,995
On sale: Summer 2023
Learn more about the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV.
Chevrolet Equinox
Chevrolet continues its electric product offensive with the Equinox EV. This small SUV will be offered in two configurations: The front-drive versions have 210 hp with 250 to 300 miles of range and all-wheel-drive versions have 290 hp with 280 miles of range. Numerous trims pile on comfort and convenient features, such as a massive 17.7-inch infotainment screen. It is notable for its generous roster of active safety features and the availability of the hands-free Super Cruise driver assistance technology. The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV goes on sale in fall 2023, starting with the uplevel 2RS trim.
Cost: $30,000-$48,000
On sale: Fall 2023
Learn more about the Chevrolet Equinox EV.
Chevrolet Silverado EV
The Silverado EV is built on General Motors’ unique EV-only Ultium platform, unlike the popular gasoline- and diesel-powered Silverado pickup trucks with which it shares a name. It has more in common with the GMC Hummer EV Pickup, including—on top trims—four-wheel steering and an adaptive air suspension system. Priced at $105,000, the top-of-the-line RST First Edition trim is both performance- and luxury-oriented, and GM says it will sprint to 60 mph in less than 4.5 seconds. A fleet Work Truck trim will focus more on towing and utility, and have a starting price below $40,000. GM says both Silverado EV trims will have a 400-mile range.
Cost: $39,900 to $105,000
On sale: Spring 2023 (WT), fall 2023 (RST)
Learn more about the Chevrolet Silverado EV.
DeLorean Alpha5
DeLorean is back to the future with an all-new concept EV that portends a production model. This is a high-performance four-seater, with gullwing doors and a claimed 0 to 88 mph in 4.35 seconds. It is curious that the design for this new car bears no resemblance to the original. With the high-demand Tesla Cybertruck moving toward production, it would seem that the market would be poised for a nostalgic, angular, unpainted car from DeLorean. Instead, the Alpha5 concept looks quite modern, even futuristic, with a polished design that borrows from a few existing cars and might look at home in the Lucid Motors portfolio. The company initially planned to build 9,351 cars, a nod to the original DMC-12 production run. But it announced in February 2023 that it will instead target 4,000 cars “due to supply chain bottlenecks.” Pre-orders require an $88 membership fee, and they are managed through an NFT system, allowing buyers to sell and trade their reservations. The price has not been announced.
The Alpha5 will be followed by the Plasmatail, a shoot-brake version—think squared off hatchback. The company has stated that cars will be followed by an SUV.
Cost: $150,000-plus (estimated)
On sale: Late 2024
Learn more about the DeLorean Alpha5.
Fiat 500e
The quintessential minicar is already on sale in Europe, and is expected to return to the U.S. for the 2024 model year as an EV only. It retains the original 500’s cheerful charm and small footprint, along with its tiny rear seat and cargo area. Fiat is positioning the new 500e as a stylish city car rather than a cheap runabout, and as such we expect the cars sold in the U.S. to be well-equipped with modern technology and stylish interior trim—although the price might be higher than more practical EVs with more space and longer ranges.
The new 500e should have a range of about 150 miles per charge, and will be able to add 30 miles of range from a 5-minute stop at a DC fast charging station. Because it will be made in Italy, the 500 likely won’t qualify for federal EV tax credits. Buyers will be able to place orders in late 2023.
Cost: $29,000-$34,000 (estimated)
On sale: 2024
Learn more about the Fiat 500e
Fisker Ocean
Fisker is poised to return to the automotive market—after being absent for about a decade—with its all-new Ocean electric vehicle. Features that seem likely to create a buzz are the optional solar roof, the 17-inch center touchscreen that can be rotated to a horizontal or vertical orientation, and something Fisker is calling “California mode,” which lowers all the windows and retracts the roof panel at the touch of a button to create a convertible-like experience.
The automaker announced pricing on four trim levels, starting at less than $40,000 for the front-wheel-drive base Sport version and reaching close to $70,000 for the top two all-wheel-drive trims. Reservations are open, and Fisker says the Ocean will be available late in 2022. But as we’ve seen, this date is not carved in stone.
Cost: $37,499 to $68,999
On sale: Spring 2023
Learn more about the Fisker Ocean.
GMC Sierra EV
Based on the GM Ultium platform shared with the Hummer EV, the Sierra EV will launch as an innovative, premium six-figure pickup truck. Over time, GMC will introduce lower trims at more attainable prices, descending to a $50,000 base price. The Denali Edition 1 boasts 754 hp. GMC says the crew cab truck can launch from 0 to 60 mph in under 4.5 seconds and achieve an estimated 400-mile range. The unified bed and body allow a midgate to open up into the cab, extending enclosed cargo space from a 5’ 11” bed to 9 feet. Other clever features include crab walk, allowing the truck to move diagonally at low speeds, and all-wheel steering, enabling a tight turning circle. The Denali Edition 1 and the off-road-focused AT4 come with a towing-compatible version of the Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology.
Cost: $50,000-$107,000
On sale: Early 2024 (Denali Edition 1), late 2024 (AT4), early 2025 (Elevation)
Learn more about the GMC Sierra EV.
Honda Prologue
Honda will launch its all-new Prologue in 2024. This electric SUV is being co-developed with General Motors. The automaker bills it as an adventure-ready vehicle with a long, 121.8-inch wheelbase and short overhangs. It is sized akin to the Passport, measuring about 193 inches bumper to bumper. The cabin features an 11-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.8-inch infotainment screen; both look like tablet computers, rather than integrated into the dash design. The Prologue will be followed by a wave of Honda EVs based on its new e: Architecture, along with those created via partnerships with GM and Sony.
Hyundai Kona
The redesigned Kona will again be offered with a gasoline engine and electric powertrains. The EV will be available with a short- and long-range battery. In public DC fast charging places it can go from 10 to 80 percent state of charge in just 41 minutes, says the automaker, when equipped with the long-range pack. The redesigned Kona is slightly larger than before, gaining an inch in height and width, and growing 7.5 inches in length. That should provide a bit more elbow room, as well as cargo space. The electric models have extra storage in the front trunk. The cabin features dual 12.3-inch screens serving as the instrument panel and infotainment display.
Cost: $24,000-$38,000 (estimated)
On sale: The regular Kona and sporty N Line go on sale in summer 2023, followed by the Kona EV later in the year.
Learn more about the Hyundai Kona.
Hyundai Ioniq 6
The Ioniq 6 is based on the same platform as the Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and Genesis GV60. This sleek sedan has an EPA range that spans 270 to 361 miles depending on the version. It offers a choice of a 53- or 77.4-kilowatt-hour battery. Each version is offered with either rear or, thanks to dual motors, AWD. Like the Ioniq 5, it is capable of rapid DC fast charging in public places. The car rides comfortably and is super-quiet inside. The window and mirror controls are oddly placed on the center console instead of on the door trim. AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection, AEB highway, BSW, and RCTW are standard. More advanced features are available on SEL and Limited trims.
Cost: $41,600 to $56,100
On sale: Spring 2023
Read the Hyundai Ioniq 6 first drive.
Indi One
Electric car startup Indi EV, which is based in California, is preparing to launch its first model, the Indi One. This five-passenger vehicle blurs the lines between a car and an SUV, and each version is equipped with all-wheel drive. The base model, $45,000, features a 75-kilowatt-hour battery with a claimed 230-mile range. The Premium version, $69,000, has a 95-kWh battery and a claimed 300-mile range. Indi says this iteration produces 470 hp and can zip from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds. The Premium also is equipped for high-end gaming. The Indi One will be built in Vernon, Calif., and the company expects to start delivering vehicles at the end of 2023.
Cost: $45,000 to $69,000
On sale: Late 2023
Jeep Recon
The Jeep Recon looks like a next-generation Wrangler designed to compete with the Ford Bronco and Land Rover Defender. To read it for adventure, the Recon has electric axle locking to enhance traction, driver-selectable modes to dial in the capabilities for different environments, and underbody protection. As with the Wrangler, the Recon can be opened up for a wind-in-the-hair driving experience. It has a one-touch power top, plus removable doors and rear side windows.
Cost: Unknown
On sale: 2024
Learn more about the Jeep Recon.
Kia EV9
The 2024 Kia EV9 promises to broaden the appeal of electric vehicles, as it is the first three-row SUV EV offered by a mainstream brand. The six- or seven-seater is based on the E-GMP platform used for other Genesis, Hyundai, and Kia electric vehicles, and it’s about the same dimensions as the Telluride SUV but has a longer wheelbase for more interior space. Single-motor rear-wheel drive or dual-motor all-wheel drive are offered. The flat floor enabled by that should help increase interior space compared to a conventional gas-engine SUV. The dash uses the two 12.3-inch screens to create the impression of a single wide display stretching from the instrument panel to the center infotainment screen. The dash controls are minimized, looking more carlike than the rather traditional configuration in the Telluride. It will be built in West Point, Georgia.
Cost: $55,000-$75,000 estimated
On sale: Late 2023
Learn more about the Kia EV9.
Lexus RZ
The RZ 450e is the first Lexus battery-electric vehicle. It shares the e-TNGA platform with the Toyota bZ4X, and its powertrain draws from the same parts bin. Sized like a Toyota Venza, the RZ features two motors (150-kilowatt front and 80-kW rear) and comes exclusively in all-wheel drive. The automaker estimates range to be up to 225 miles, notably shorter than that of many rivals. The two-row interior features a large 14-inch infotainment screen, and the RZ is topped with a panoramic sunroof. The Lexus Safety Sense+ 3.0 suite is standard, packing the latest active safety features from the automaker, along with several clever innovations aided by driver attention monitoring.
Price: $58,500 to $64,000
On sale: Spring 2023
Read the 2023 Lexus RZ first drive.
Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV
The midsized, five-seat EQE SUV is the electric alternative to the GLE. It shares the premium electric platform that underpins the EQS and EQE sedans. The EQE SUV will be offered initially in three configurations. The base setup is a 288-hp EQE 350 with RWD. The others are dual-motor versions, enabling all-wheel drive. The EQE 350 4Matic has 288-hp and the EQE 500 4Matic boasts 536 hp. All three share a 90.6-kWh lithium-ion battery and use an adaptive air suspension. A higher-performance AMG version with 677 hp will be offered in 2024. The centerpiece for the cabin is the MBUX Hyperscreen that spans the entire dash and incorporates the instrument cluster, infotainment screen and a passenger screen.
Price: $75,000-$95,000 estimated
On sale: Mid 2023
Learn more about the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV.
Mini Countryman
Mini has redesigned its Countryman SUV as an electric vehicle, while stretching its length and height. The Countryman E has 191 hp, and the automaker’s first all-wheel-drive EV, the Country SE ALL4, has 313 hp, when factoring a temporary boost. The battery capacity is 65 kWh.
Interestingly, every fifth Mini is already electric today. The new Countryman will be the first Mini to be built in Germany.
Price: $45,000-$60,000 estimated
On sale: Early 2024
Nissan Ariya
The 2023 Ariya is Nissan’s first electric SUV and has a starting price around $46,000. There will be standard- and long-range battery versions and a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. Front-drive versions make 238 hp, with the dual-motor AWD models producing 389 hp. The front-wheel-drive model equipped with the long-range battery will have an estimated driving range of up to 300 miles. The cabin has a large, horizontal display screen that serves as both the instrument cluster and the infotainment system. The Ariya will have wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Standard driver assistance features include FCW, AEB with pedestrian detection, BSW, RCTW, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams.
Price: $45,950-$58,950
On sale: Spring 2023
Read the Nissan Ariya first drive.
Polestar 3
The midsized Polestar 3 SUV will expand the electric-only brand’s portfolio in 2023, packed with luxury features and safety equipment. Each 3 comes in a dual-motor configuration with all-wheel drive. The standard “long range” model has 489 horsepower, with an estimated 300-mile range. The step up is a “long range” model with a Performance Pack. It has 517 hp and an estimated 270-mile range. Both have a 400-volt lithium battery, with 111-kW capacity, and a maximum tow capacity of 3,500 lb. First-year models are well equipped, from HUD and 25-speaker stereo, to a generous roster of active safety systems that includes AEB with cyclist and pedestrian detection, LDW, LKA, BSW, and many more features, supported by five radars and five external cameras. There is an upgrade that adds LIDAR and more external sensors.
Price: $83,900-$89,900
On sale: Late 2023
Learn more about the Polestar 3.
Polestar 4
The Polestar brand continues to expand its line with sequentially named products. Following the Polestar 3 SUV will be the Polestar 4, a genre-blending model that borrows from both cars and SUVs. The automaker describes it as a coupe. The most distinct styling element is the absence of a rear window. As you can see in the photo, the glass roof flows into that space. Instead, it uses a rearview mirror with a live video feed from a roof-mounted rear camera. There will be single motor, rear-wheel drive and dual motor, all-wheel-drive versions, with a peak output of 544 hp. Polestar says the 4 is “the fastest production car the brand has ever developed to date” with a claimed 3.8-second 0-60 mph time. Long-range Polestar 4s are fitted with a 102-kWh battery. Up to 200 kW DC and 22 kW AC charging is included for all versions.
Price: $60,000
On sale: Late 2024
Ram 1500 REV
The 1500 REV looks every bit like a next-generation Ram pickup truck, with many familiar styling cues and features. There is a single 654-hp electric powertrain, with a choice of standard (350-mile range) or large (500-mile range) battery packs. The electrical system is compatible with 800-volt DC fast chargers for rapid replenishment, and it can route power to a house, the grid, or supply a work site. It uses an independent rear suspension and will be available with an adjustable air suspension. The new Tungsten top trim pushes the Ram’s luxury boundaries, with a more premium interior, Klipsch stereo, and even massaging front seats. The 1500 REV will be available with a hands-free driver assist system.
Price: $55,000-$90,000 (estimated)
On sale: Late 2024
Learn more about the Ram 1500 REV.
Tesla Cybertruck
The Tesla Cybertruck is an all-electric pickup. Aside from its one-of-a-kind angular experiment of a truck, the design replaces the traditional truck frame with a hard stainless steel “exoskeleton,” similar to airplane design, and extra-strong glass for the windows. Tesla announced a base price of under $40,000, but we take that with a grain of salt based on the company’s record of frequent price hikes. The truck will come in three variations, with battery ranges of 250, 350, and 500 miles. The top-end version promises acceleration of 0 to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds, combined with the ability to tow 14,000 pounds. The prototype is expected to evolve and decrease in size slightly.
Cost:$39,900 to $69,900
On sale: Delivery estimated to be late 2023 at the earliest.
Learn more about the Tesla Cybertruck.
Tesla Roadster
Tesla’s road map has the electric-only product line expanding from the Model S, Model X, and Model 3 to the Cybertruck, Semi tractor-trailer truck, and the Roadster. The name is a nod to the original Tesla car, an electric convertible based on a Lotus platform. This car promises performance quite unlike any car that has come before, but well-heeled driving enthusiasts will need to wait longer for the model to reach production. When it was initially unveiled in 2017, Tesla said it aimed to build the Roadster in 2020. And as the saying now goes, that plan went all “2020.” Other models have taken longer to develop, stretching out the timeline as the company faces the challenge of expanding its factories, creating next-generation batteries, and engineering more advanced Full Self-Driving capability. Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, said the Roadster should ship in 2023, but more recently he has indicated that all new products are delayed because of supply constraints. A launch in 2024 seems more likely.
The Roadster is a bit of a misnomer. It’s a four-seater, with a snug back seat and a partly retractable hardtop. It uses three motors powering all wheels to deliver its claimed rocketlike acceleration, with the automaker citing 0 to 60 mph in 1.9 seconds. And it will offer 620 miles of range.
Cost: $200,000-$250,000
On sale: 2024
VinFast VF 6 and VF 7
The VF 6 is roughly the same size as subcompact SUVs like the Honda HR-V, while the VF 7 is similar in size to the Mazda CX-5. As with the larger models, the VF 6 and VF 7 will come in Eco and Plus trims, and they will be available with either a standard- or long-range battery pack. Customers will have the option to pay a monthly subscription fee for the batteries, which includes free replacement as capacity degrades.
The smaller VF 6 will be available only in front-wheel-drive configuration, while the Plus trim on the VF 7 will come with a two-motor all-wheel-drive system. The power level will also vary. The VF 6 Eco will have 174 hp of output, while the higher-end Plus trim will put out 201 hp. The VF 7 Eco picks up with the 201-hp front-wheel-drive configuration from the VF 6 Plus, while the VF 7 Plus comes with a 349-hp all-wheel-drive system.
Prices: $30,000-$45,000
On sale: 2024
Learn more about the VinFast VF6 and VF7.
VinFast VF 8 and VF 9
There’s a new electric vehicle company in town: VinFast. Its home base is in Vietnam, and it plans to invest $4 billion in a manufacturing plant in North Carolina. The automaker showed two SUVs at the 2022 New York auto show, the VF 8 and VF 9.
Both the VF 8 and the VF 9 feature a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. The Eco version has 348 hp, and the Plus trim has 402 hp. Standard and long-range batteries are available in either model. VinFast says the VF 8 Eco with the standard battery has a 260-mile estimated driving range and a 5.8-second 0-to-60-mph time, while models equipped with the extended-range battery have an estimated 292-mile range and a 5.3-second 0-to-60 time.
VinFast has a unique twist on pricing, with a battery subscription on top of the vehicle’s purchase prices, tailored to the buyer’s expected usage. The company explains it this way: “By separating the price of the battery from the acquisition value of the automobile, VinFast takes on all the risks related to the vehicle’s battery and ensures a reasonable price for its products, while providing customers with peace of mind about the battery’s quality during use.”
A key upside to their battery approach is that VinFast provides a lifetime battery warranty covering all maintenance and repair costs, and will replace the battery free when charging capacity dips below 70 percent. This should reduce some concerns among shoppers.
Prices:
VF 8: $40,700 to $48,000. VF 9: $55,500 to $61,000
On sale: Winter 2023
Learn more about VinFast and its models.
Volkswagen ID.7
The Volkswagen ID.7 midsized electric sedan uses the company’s modular electric drive (MEB) platform, shared with the ID.4 SUV. It is sized like the retired Passat sedan, but it promises to be even roomier than that spacious four-door. And this latest electric car has a few tricks up its sleeves, such as a giant 15-inch center screen, head-up display, adjustable tint glass roof, adaptive suspension, and available massaging seats. And although it may not be readily apparent, it is a hatchback. The ID.7 uses a new electric drivetrain, with a 282 horsepower electric motor paired with a two-stage, one-speed transmission. A lithium-ion battery is packaged in the floor with a 77 kWh capacity and a 170-kW charging capability. A larger 86 kWh version may be offered later. Made in Germany, the ID.7 goes on sale in 2024.
Cost: $45,000-$55,000 estimated
On sale: 2024
Learn more about the Volkswagen ID.7.
Volvo EX90
Volvo’s new seven-passenger, three-row electric SUV promises to push boundaries on the safety front. It will be equipped with cutting-edge technology, including a driver monitoring system that can pull the SUV over and call for help, and a sophisticated lidar sensor to support the EX90’s advanced driving assistance systems. Its large 111-kWh battery has a range up to 300 miles, and power is pegged at 496 horses. The minimalist interior gets a massive 14.5-inch center screen, and there’s radar-based occupant detection to help prevent children from being left unattended inside.
Cost: $75,000-$90,000
On sale: Early 2024
Learn more about the 2024 Volvo EX90.
Electric Cars 101
Electric cars are bringing some of the biggest changes the auto industry has seen in years. On the “Consumer 101” TV show, Consumer Reports expert Jake Fisher explains to host Jack Rico why these vehicles might not be as newfangled as you think.
TakeCharge Mobile did not write this article, we just like it! The original post credited to Consumer Reports Here.
