Elon Musk is never far from a headline these days, from his recent inflammatory posts about the far-right riots in the UK to his endorsement of Donald Trump for president. But his increasingly toxic rhetoric is making some Tesla owners reconsider their choice. Sales fell in July for the second straight quarter.
It’s a shame, because Tesla makes great electric cars. The latest Model 3, for instance, drives nicely, is well-built, efficient, and affordably priced. However, if you are committed to electric cars but Musk’s antics have turned you off Tesla, there are plenty of other excellent options. Established carmakers and newcomers have matched or even surpassed Tesla with their electric offerings. Here are the 10 best non-Tesla EVs you can buy now.
First up is the Dacia Spring, perfect for urban duties with a range of up to 140 miles and a comfortable ride. Though not the last word in sophistication, it fits two adults and two kids comfortably, with room for a few carry-on bags or a weekly shop in the boot.
Next is the Volvo EX30, a clever little car that feels posh without a premium price tag. It features a unique audio system, window switches in the middle of the car, and a touchscreen with Google voice control. It drives nicely around town and on longer journeys, offering two battery sizes and three trim levels.
For those looking at used options, the BMW i3 is ahead of its time. Launched in 2013, it uses sustainable materials and is ideal for city driving. Despite some space constraints and a quirky door design, it still drives like a BMW with quick acceleration and agility.
If you need a seven-seater, the Kia EV9 impresses with its style, quality, and efficiency. Though the most expensive Kia on sale, it offers a spacious and airy cabin with sustainable fabrics, a comfortable drive, and a nearly 100kWh battery.
For sports car enthusiasts, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N stands out. It offers sharp steering, excellent body control, and even a sound generator that mimics traditional car noises, though this feature comes at a price.
In terms of sustainability, the Polestar 4 is among the greenest cars available, using recycled materials extensively. While it does not have a back window, it compensates with cameras and screens, strong performance, and Google-powered tech.
For those prioritizing range, the Volkswagen ID. 7 offers up to 436 miles on a single charge. It provides ample space and superb ride quality, feeling more like a Mercedes-Benz than a Volkswagen.
In the luxury category, the BMW i7 excels, offering a silent, luxurious experience with amenities like a 31-inch 8k screen and a 36-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system.
Families will find the Renault Scenic E-Tech ideal, with sizeable rear doors, room for three in the back seat, and an ingenious armrest with phone holders and USB charging. Though not the fastest EV, it is comfortable for the most part.
Lastly, the Renault 5 E-Tech, set to arrive soon, promises a fun, tech-savvy experience with customizable features and voice control from Google. Though prices are still speculative, it aims to revive the charm of the original Renault 5.
If Elon Musk’s polarizing presence has made you rethink your EV choice, rest assured there are plenty of excellent alternatives to Tesla’s offerings. From affordable urban cars to luxurious SUVs, the market is filled with diverse options to meet every need and preference.
Source: Theguardian