Top 10 cheapest electric cars to buy in 2022
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more affordable each year. As more and more EVs enter the market each year, drivers are increasingly spoilt for choice. This should be helped by the UK Government's plans to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2030.
The lower running costs and environmental benefits of EVs, over petrol or diesel cars, are the main reasons that drivers make the change. The initial costs shouldn't put you off.
So, we've put together this handy list of the top ten cheapest EVs on the market - all under £35,000 - based on your needs.
If you've already decided to use your electric car, leasing could be a great option. We're offering electric cars at great prices.
Cheapest electric cars with a great range
1. VW ID.3 Life Pro Performance
- Approximate miles: 265 (WLTP)
- Cost: from £29,990
- Rapid charging: Yes: up to 80% in 45 minutes
- Available from: November 2020
The VW ID range is causing a bit of a stir right now. The ID.3 is the first release of their new electric car series. The size of a Volkswagen e-Golf, this five-door hatchback promises to be a high-performance electric car. The design looks great, and it comes with all the latest technology.
The ID.3 Life Pro Performance is the powerhouse of the ID.3 range, with a great battery at around 62kWh and a punchy drivetrain kicking out around 201bhp. For those keen to get behind the wheel of the highly anticipated VW ID.3, there are already several styles and trim levels on sale now.
2. Peugeot e-208
- Approximate miles: 217 (WLTP)
- Cost: from £30,195
- Rapid charging: Yes: up to 80% in 30 minutes
- Available from: February 2020
On the list from 2020, the e-208 is a great little hatchback and one that we see as great value for the price. One of the most popular cars in the UK, the Peugeot 208 now comes with a fully electric 50kWh battery providing 138 horsepower.
A great city car with an approximate range of 217 miles (WLTP), this is also good for longer journeys. The car can be controlled remotely by the MyPeugeot App, which allows drivers to check the status of the vehicle as well as activating, stopping and scheduling a charge.
3. Vauxhall Corsa-e
Approximate miles: 209 (WLTP)
- Cost: from £29,995
- Rapid charging: Yes: up to 80% in 45 minutes
- Available: April 2020
The Vauxhall Corsa-e is very much a competitor to the Peugeot e-208. With a similar range of 209 miles and at a similar price range, there's not much to choose from between these two. The Corsa-e comes with rapid charging capability, allowing you to charge 80% in 30 minutes from a 100kW charging station.
The Corsa-e is available in three trim levels. The entry-level SE NAV Premium, the mid-range SRI NAV Premium or the top-end ELITE NAV Premium.
Cheapest electric cars for families
4. Nissan Leaf Acenta
- Approximate miles: 168 (WLTP)
- Cost: from £28,995
- Rapid charging: Yes: up to 80% in an hour
- Available: 2022
Currently, the cheapest version of the extremely popular Nissan Leaf line, this car doesn't compromise. The 100% electric city car offers generous space for up to four people and provides a nippy way to get around town. Other options are available in this line if you're looking for a longer range.
5. MG ZS EV
- Approximate miles: 165
- Cost: from £28,995
- Rapid charging: Yes: up to 80% in 40 minutes
- Available from: February 2022
This full-electric SUV is cheap to run and a good value to buy. This is a pure electric version of MG’s petrol crossover. It’s similar to their nearest rival, the Hyundai Kona Electric, but without the higher price tag. With plenty of room and boot space, the car comes with all the usual safety kit, such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection and autonomous emergency braking. It also includes some of the latest equipment, such as a great screen with Apple CarPlay, sat-nav and keyless entry.
A good option for those looking for an electric SUV under £30,000.
Cheapest mid-range electric cars
6. MG4 EV
- Approximate miles: 218 (WLTP)
- Cost: from £25,995
- Rapid charging: Yes, up to 80% in 40 Minutes
- Available: From September 2022
This latest offering from MG is packed with their latest innovative technology to maximise battery efficiency and driving comfort. With a 51kWh battery, a decent expected range and a 0-60 speed of 7.5 seconds, this EV isn't one to be missed.
Available in three different models with an increasing range, you can find which one suits you best. All models get the brand's MG Pilot assistance system, LED headlights, rear parking sensors and adaptive cruise control. Features you usually find on higher spec trim levels.
7. DS3 Crossback E-Tense
- Approximate miles: 191 (WLTP)
- Cost: £33,935
- Rapid charging: Yes: up to 80% in 30 minutes
- Available from: July 2020
The DS3 Crossback E-Tense is a compact 5-seater SUV that offers comfort and luxury. Equipped with the same drivetrain that can be found in the similarly priced Vauxhall Corsa-e, power the front-wheel drive French car. The E-Tense differs from many other lines of EVs, and it's a nearly identical copy of its petrol and diesel-powered DS 3s. This means if you've enjoyed driving the DS 3 Crossbacks of the past, you're bound to love the electric instalment.
See DS3 Crossback E-Tense leasing deals
8. VW e-Up! (Second generation)
- Approximate miles: 140
- Cost: £23,555
- Rapid charging: Yes: up to 80% in an hour
- Available: Now
Built alongside its sister vehicles, the Skoda E CITIGOe iV and the SEAT e-Mii, the second-generation e-Up is one for loyal VW fans. The first-generation e-Up has been on the market since 2016, but this new model will benefit from an increased battery size, which will double the range of the existing model.
Cheapest electric cars for city driving
9. MINI Electric
- Approximate miles: 140
- Cost: £28,000
- Rapid charging: Yes: up to 80% in 35 minutes
- Available: Now
Keeping many of the features that Mini fans know and love, with its signature style and its agile handling, it’s getting rave reviews. We think its introduction will be a bit of a game-changer in the electric car world.
10. Fiat 500e
- Approximate miles: 115 or 199
- Cost: from £23,495
- Rapid charging: Yes: up to 80% in 35 minutes
- Available: 2021
Crafted for the city, the new Fiat 500e is an exciting little run-around for the daily city commute. With built-in Level 2 Autonomous Driving, this small city car has a co-driver to assist you on your drive and will brake, accelerate and stay in the lane while you drive. For those wanting to travel a little further afield, there is a mid-spec Icon trim, which comes with a 199-mile battery but for an extra £3,500. For this, you'll also get an 85kW fast charge thrown in.
Test out an EV through hire
If you're not sure what EV to go for, or if an electric car is for you in the first place, why not try one out through rental? Turo is a car-sharing platform where you can hire an EV from its owner. It's a great way to try before you buy.
Cheapest EVs to lease
Leasing an electric car could be a great alternative to buying one. We've got access to the best cars at great prices, thanks to our partnership with Drive Electric. And once you get your car, don't forget to switch your electricity to our GoElectric tariff.
You can also get your EV home charger from us - all your electric car needs in one place!
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