Top 10 Longest-Range Electric Vehicles in the US You Can Buy for Under $50,000

If you've read the media recently, everyone discusses a slowing down in EV adoption. This narrative is mainly pushed by legacy carmakers to justify their reluctance to commit to electric vehicles. It's easy to see why this happened. American carmakers make the most of their profits from selling ICE pickup trucks and SUVs. At the same time, they lose a lot of money on electric vehicles, with an industry average estimated by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) at more than $6,000 per vehicle sold.

The truth is that EV adoption is accelerating, while ICE sales have plateaued in the past years. About 7% of all passenger vehicles sold in the US last year were electric, increasing from 5.5% in 2022. Analysts predict EVs will surpass 10% of the light-vehicle market in 2024. Based on what happened in other markets like China and Europe, this marks a psychological tipping point. The more people are exposed to electric vehicles, the more likely they are to also choose an electric model.

This clearly shows that EV adoption is not slowing, on the contrary. As a famous Hemingway quote says, this will happen "gradually, then suddenly." At that point, legacy carmakers will regret not moving faster with their EV plans. Of course, not all are equally opposed to building EVs. Korean brands, such as Hyundai and Kia, are moving at almost startup pace, while Japanese carmakers are trying to ignore the EV trend completely. European and American companies are somewhere in the middle.

Despite having second thoughts, everyone is aware that the future is electric. EVs might be expensive now, but they're far more efficient than combustion vehicles. They are faster, and, generally speaking, they are better. And there's no way the better product will fail. We already see new models offering faster charging, longer range, and more affordable prices. This is why it's worth checking out the longest-range models in the US that you can buy for under $50,000.

1. Hyundai Ioniq 6 RWD

• Price: starting at $42,450
• Power: 225 horsepower
• Battery capacity: 77 kWh
• Range: 361 miles
• IRA tax credit: No

Although Tesla is the undisputed efficiency champion, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 remains the longest-range electric vehicle you can buy for under $50,000. Reasonably priced and feature-full, the Ioniq 6 is a compelling proposition if you don't want to worry about range. The longest-range variant is rear-wheel drive, whereas the AWD model has 316 miles of range.

The design might not be to everybody's liking, but it's a direct result of aerodynamic optimizations. The Ioniq 6 boasts an impressive 0.22 drag coefficient, one of the industry's best. Using the same E-GMP platform as the Ioniq 5, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 can go almost 60 miles further, which is nothing to scoff at. This is more than most people need during their daily commutes.

Despite its streamlined design, the Ioniq 6 is sleek and modern, offering decent space for passengers and their luggage. The Korean electric sedan is one of the few models in its class that offer bi-directional charging. It also comes with an impressive driver-assistance package. Thanks to its 800-volt architecture, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 is one of the fastest-charging EVs on the planet, needing only 18 minutes to go from 10% to 80% when hooked to a 350-kW charger.

2. Tesla Model 3 LR AWD

• Price: starting at $47,740
• Power: 395 horsepower
• Battery capacity: 82 kWh
• Range: 341 miles
• IRA tax credit: No

Until Tesla launches the Model 3 Performance, the Long Range AWD will be the most powerful and longest-range Model 3 you can buy. Unlike other brands, where opting for a less powerful variant yields more range, Tesla makes sure you're not punished for wanting more performance from your EV. This is probably why the Model 3 LR AWD is in high demand, with an estimated delivery window of May-June.

Tesla recently hiked the price of the AWD Model 3 by $750, although it kept the RWD price unchanged. Since no Model 3 version qualifies for the federal tax credit, you might get a better deal buying a Model Y instead. However, the electric crossover ranks lower in our top, with an EPA range estimate of 310 miles. The market seems to prefer the Model 3's fresher design if the rumors about Model Y slowdown sales prove true.

It's not only the design that attracts more buyers but also newer technologies and features. Tesla improved safety, comfort, and efficiency compared to the outgoing model. There's not much you might hate about the refreshed Tesla Model 3, with the stalkless design being the only complaint. Hopefully, Tesla will listen to customer requests and bring back the stalks, at least as an option.

3. Polestar 2 RWD

• Price: starting at $49,900
• Power: 299 horsepower
• Battery capacity: 82 kWh
• Range: 320 miles
• IRA tax credit: No

Although Polestar increased deliveries, the Swedish carmaker is still not profitable, which is why Volvo withdrew its backing. The only EV startup founded by a legacy carmaker now relies on Geely to support its growth with a new model portfolio that is increasing fast. However, only the Polestar 2, the brand's first model sold in the US, can be bought for under $50,000.

The Polestar 2 follows a similar path as the Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5, which are difficult to classify as a body style. Polestar says it's something between crossover, coupe, and hatchback, with an undeniable Scandinavian charm thrown in for good measure.

The 2024 model year came with a new RWD variant that replaced the previous FWD offering. It's also more powerful, at 299 horsepower. The upgraded battery pack allows the Polestar 2 RWD to travel 320 miles (515 km) on a charge. The Polestar 2 is the most expensive EV in our lineup, barely below the $50K mark. Still, it's worth it, considering the original design, well-equipped interior, and great technological package.

4. Chevrolet Equinox EV RWD

• Price: $34,995
• Power: 210 horsepower
• Battery capacity: 75 kWh
• Range: 319 miles
• IRA tax credit: $7,500

While the Chevrolet Equinox EV is not yet available to buy, it should start deliveries in the coming months. The upper trims 2LT, 3LT, and 2RS can be ordered now, while the base version 1LT is set to arrive "later in 2024." Either variant is available with front-wheel drive, which allows it to travel up to 319 miles (513 km) between charges. The best part? All Equinox EV models are priced below $50,000, with the most affordable at $34,995.

An optional eAWD variant with a range of 285 miles (460 km) will also be offered, although Chevrolet hasn't communicated the price premium of the dual-motor trim. With the 1LT trim, Chevrolet offers 19-inch aluminum wheels and Google Built-in for the 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The feature list also includes an 11-inch digital instrument cluster and manual adjustments for the front seats.

Hopefully, GM will build the Equinox EV in significant quantities. So far, the Ultium EV production is not going well. Last year, the Chevrolet Blazer EV was hampered by a stop-sale order because of its software problems, and deliveries were only recently restarted. On the plus side, Chevrolet lowered the Blazer EV's price, making me confident it could also launch the Equinox EV at the announced $34,995 starting price.

5. Kia EV6 RWD

• Price: $45,950
• Power: 225 horsepower
• Battery capacity: 77.4 kWh
• Range: 310 miles
• IRA tax credit: No

Kia has always played the hip, trendy carmaker role, whereas sister-brand Hyundai has been more conservative. The Kia EV6 is the perfect example, with an unconventional design that blurs the lines between crossover and hatchback while keeping all the advantages of Hyundai's E-GMP platform.

Thanks to the 800-volt architecture, the Kia EV6 boasts very short charging times when plugged into a 350-kW charger, needing only 18 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%. This is as fast as you can get on a volume model and is one of its unique selling points. The RWD variant may seem underpowered, with only 225 horsepower, but it has the advantage of a 310-mile (500 km) range.

The Kia EV6 looks aggressive and posh, but the designers focused more on its sporty appearance than its practical features. While cabin space is not a problem, the trunk is not very big, and the visibility toward the rear could've been better. The Kia EV6 compensates with quality materials and a comprehensive technology package.

6. Tesla Model Y LR AWD

• Price: $48,990
• Power: 384 horsepower
• Battery capacity: 82 kWh
• Range: 310 miles
• IRA tax credit: $7,500

The best part of owning a Tesla is that you have plenty of chargers, thanks to the Supercharger network. This is why Tesla has not focused too much on improving range. Elon Musk dismissed Lucid Air's achievements as not necessary, impacting efficiency. However, the Model Y has been the best-selling car in the world despite having "only" 310 miles (499 km) of range in the LR AWD variant.

Despite its success, the Model Y has grown a little long in the tooth, and demand hasn't been very strong in the past months. The Tesla Model Y started deliveries relatively recently, in 2020, but it sported the same design as the Model 3, launched in 2017. The recent Model 3 refresh may have contributed to the Model Y's struggles. The fact that Tesla is preparing the Juniper refresh doesn't help with the current model's sales.

The Model Y LR AWD was previously listed with 330 miles of range but lost 20 miles after the EPA reconsidered its testing criteria. There are no changes under the hood, just the way the range is calculated, and you should get similar results in real life regardless of whether you bought the 330-mile model or the more recent 310-mile Model Y.

7. Nissan Ariya FWD

• Price: $47,190
• Power: 238 horsepower
• Battery capacity: 87 kWh
• Range: 304 miles
• IRA tax credit: no

Despite being one of the first to launch an electric vehicle (Leaf, in 2010), Nissan has lost steam in the EV market. Leaf is still on sale, although it doesn't stand a chance against rivals, forcing Nissan to consider retiring it. Instead, the Japanese carmaker hopes the Ariya crossover will be more successful. Nissan Ariya has competitive specs, although availability is an issue due to production issues.

The Nissan Ariya is roomy and comfortable, making it a decent proposition. Connectivity features and safety assist systems abound, and it doesn't lack comfort features either. Still, the pricing is rather bold, especially when pitted against the Tesla Model Y. Also, with no tax credit in sight, it could be a tough buy.

Thankfully, the Ariya has decent performance and the range to ensure road trips are not ruined by range anxiety. The 87-kWh battery pack allows it to travel up to 304 miles (489 km) on a charge in the FWD Venture+ trim. Still, charging is limited to 130 kW, which leads to long charging times. Nissan claims 40 minutes are needed to charge the big battery from 10% to 80%.

8. Hyundai Ioniq 5 RWD

• Price: $45,850
• Power: 225 horsepower
• Battery capacity: 77.4 kWh
• Range: 303 miles
• IRA tax credit: No

Just by looking briefly over the numbers above, you notice that the Ioniq 5 is less efficient than the Kia EV6, which has identical characteristics. The boxier shape makes the Hyundai compact EV lose 7 miles of range compared to its Kia cousin. Similar to the latter, you need to choose the less powerful RWD variant if you want the best range.

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has the same 77.4 kWh battery pack and the same 800-volt architecture, a defining characteristic of the E-GMP platform. Therefore, it can charge from 10% to 80% in less than 20 minutes. With a full battery, it travels up to 303 miles (488 km), thus retaining a place in the "over 300 miles" club.

With its classic hatchback shape, the Ioniq 5 has strong Hyundai Pony vibes, being ready to capitalize on the retro trend. Especially after Rivian introduced the R3 with a similar design, America noticed the charm and practicality of the European hatchbacks. Expect lots of space in the cabin, as well as in the trunk, and lots of convenience and safety features. The Ioniq 5 is also one of the most comfortable EVs in the compact segment.

9. Volvo EX30 Single Motor Extended Range

• Price: starting at $34,950
• Power: 268 horsepower
• Battery capacity: 69 kWh
• Range: 275 miles
• IRA tax credit: No

Volvo impressed everyone when it launched the EX30 small crossover in the US, especially as it was priced at $34,950. Despite being priced at $40 under the Chevrolet Equinox EV, the Volvo crossover comes with premium features and safety tech normally found on luxury vehicles of the upper class. Add the more powerful motor and sporty performance (0-60 in 5.1 seconds), and you see why people were wowed.

The downside is that the Volvo EX30 is one of the smallest electric crossovers on the market. A small form factor has many disadvantages, including limited cabin and trunk space. Also, you cannot buy one yet because of production delays, but that is also true for the Chevy. Despite having a relatively small battery capacity of 69 kWh, the EX30 can travel up to 275 miles on a charge. EPA tests are in progress, so this number might change when deliveries start later this year.

As a Volvo, you shouldn't be surprised that the EX30 is one of the safest and most feature-packed electric cars on the market. Volvo fitted the EX30 with a 360-degree camera system with a 3D view, Pilot Assist with Land Change Assistance, and Park Pilot Assist, among other driver-assistance systems. Above all, you'll be introduced to the world of the understated Scandinavian luxury.

10. Volkswagen ID.4 Pro

• Price: $43,995
• Power: 201 horsepower
• Battery capacity: 82 kWh
• Range: 275 miles
• IRA tax credit: $7,500

The Volkswagen ID.4 is, alongside the Tesla Model Y and the Polestar 2, the oldest models on this list, being launched in 2020. The MEB architecture shows its age, especially in terms of efficiency and charging performance. Owners also complained about software issues, although these seem to have been mostly sorted out with recent updates.

Volkswagen offers a wide range of features and trims, but we're only here for the longest range provided by the ID.4 Pro with rear-wheel drive. The 201-horsepower crossover has an 82-kWh battery that offers a range of 275 miles (443 km). Fast charging is limited to 135 kW, and it takes about half an hour to charge the battery from 10% to 80%.

Not everything is bad about the German crossover: it has one of the most spacious interiors in its segment. The cargo space measures 64.2 cu-ft (1,818 liters), enough for most families. The ID.4 is also more comfortable than other EVs in its segment. Even better, it's one of the few that still qualify for the federal tax credit in 2024, making it more attractive.