With the world gradually shifting toward the "GreenEarth" era, carbon emissions rules become stricter and will invariably affect the automotive industry. The inevitable transition has caused the industry to become more creative with eco-friendly options, which involves the production of electric cars. We've seen major auto manufacturers such as Ford, Chevrolet, Kia, Hyundai, and others foray into the electric vehicle market to flow with the tide.
However, a major downside of electric vehicles is their disarming price tags when compared to regular gasoline-powered options. It is undeniably an Achilles heel of the GreenEarth movement. However, several electric vehicles do not require one to have very deep pockets. While they may not be as exciting as high-end models, they offer everyone the chance to jump in on the EV craze. Here, we look at some exciting 2022 electric cars and some for 2023 that you can buy for around $40,000.
9 2023 Nissan Leaf S ($28,895)
First introduced in Japan and the US in December 2010, the Nissan Leaf has experienced an impressive run since its inception. It was recognized as the world's all-time top-selling electric car in December 2019. The Nissan Leaf has improved for 2023 with its 40 kWh lithium-ion battery delivering up to 147 hp and a range of 149 miles.
Also available for the Nissan Leaf is the SV Plus trim which uses a larger 60 kWh lithium-ion battery delivering a more impressive 214 hp and a range of 212 miles. The standard 2023 Nissan Leaf S cost $28,896 to get while the SV Plus trim is priced at $36,895.
8 2023 Mini Cooper Electric ($30,750)
The affordable 2023 Mini Cooper Electric delivers excitement with its 181 hp and 199 pound-feet of torque from its 28.9 kWh battery. It uses a single-speed direct-drive transmission and sprints to 60 mph in 6 seconds. On a full charge, the 2023 Mini Cooper Electric has an estimated driving range of 110 miles and a top speed of 93 mph.
For the 2023 model year, the Mini Cooper Electric will be available in three trims; the Signature, Signature Plus, and the trim-topping Iconic. Prices for the EV are set at $30,750, $34,750, and $37,750 respectively.
7 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV ($32,495)
Chevy's all-electric hatchback, the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV is more spacious than its small size suggests. Equipped with a 65 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, the EV sends 200 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque to its front wheels. With this setup, the car has instant acceleration. The Chevrolet Bolt EV has a top speed of 93 mph and makes it to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds.
One of its standout features is the one-pedal driving mode that increases regenerative braking when you click on a button The base model; the 1LT is priced at $32,495 and the second trim, the 2LT sells for $35,695. On a full charge, the Chevy Bolt has a 259-mile range and fuel economy is pegged at 120 MPGe.
6 2022 Mazda MX-30 ($34,695)
Mazda's first foray into the electric car market birthed the 2022 Mazda MX-30. Mazda's MX-30 boasts sublime handling using a direct-drive transmission system. Powering the EV is a 35.5 kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery discharging 143 hp and 200 pound-feet of torque.
Additionally, it maxes out at a top speed of 91 mph and sprints to 60 mph in 8.7 seconds. While the 100-mile range of the Mazda MX-30 leaves more to be desired, that can be understood as the car is the first EV attempt by Mazda. The base 2022 Mazda MX-30 sells at $34,695 and the Premium Plus trim is set at $37,655.
5 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV ($34,495)
Chevy's idea to deliver an SUV version of the Chevrolet Bolt EV proved innovative and hence the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV stepped out. Its powertrain plays along the same line with its hatchback version, possessing a 65 kWh lithium-ion battery with 200 hp and 266 pound-feet of torque. However, the noticeable difference shows in its range which is 12 miles lesser than the Bolt EV.
Additionally, the SUV is taller, longer, and wider than the Bolt hatchback, and has an extra three inches of legroom. With a top speed of 93 mph, the Chevrolet Bolt EUV completes the race to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds, a semi tick short of its hatchback cousin. Its base trim, the LT starts at $35,495 while the Premier trim costs $38,995.
4 2018 BMW i3s ($31,998)
Despite being on the market for a couple of years, the 2018 BMW i3s still looks like a car from the future, thanks to its stubby hood, suicide doors, and oddly-shaped windows. The i3s is sprightly, and due to its instant electric acceleration, you'd fly away from traffic lights faster than a hare. It also handles well around corners, and the car's interior is up to par with any BMW around.
Powered by a 33.2-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, it produces 184 horses and 199 lb-ft of torque. With its Comfort, Eco Pro, Eco Pro +, and Sport modes getting a decent used model at $31,998 is a bargain.
3 2019 Smart EQ ForTwo ($20,000)
Manufactured by Mercedes-Benz, and available as a soft-top convertible and a coupe, the Smart EQ ForTwo is a two-seater minicar. The minicar is motivated by an electric motor that generates 80 hp. Some features include power windows, LED daytime running lights, cruise control, and Bluetooth streaming audio.
The Smart EQ ForTwo is fun to cruise around city streets and easy to park. You can also get a JBL stereo, leather upholstery, heated steering wheel, and Android Auto. Used models can range from between $12,000 and $20,000
2 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric ($35,295)
Hyundai delivered class and range with the 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric. Inspired by its gas-propelled counterpart, the 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric maintains its cheeky design. However, instead of a 147 hp four-cylinder engine, it sports a 201 hp 64 kWh lithium-ion battery pack with 291 pound-feet of torque.
The Hyundai Kona Electric offers an impressive 258-mile range on a single charge and takes 6.4 seconds to achieve 60 mph. It has a top speed of 110 mph and shifts gears using a one-speed direct-drive transmission. The base trim, the SEL is available at ($35,295).
1 2022 Kia Niro EV ($39,090)
The Kia Niro EV is a practical subcompact crossover that uses a 60 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and displaces 201 hp. Offering a more refined ride than the competition, the 2022 Kia Niro EV shifts gears using a direct-drive transmission. It paces to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds and tops a speed of 107 mph.
Inside the cabin is a bit plasticky, but it more than makes up for that with its 10.3-inch touchscreen and a Harman/Kardon audio system. Other features include Apple CarPlay, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, and Android Auto.