Going electric doesn't have to mean breaking the bank. We've rounded up the best electric cars with the lowest cost of entry.
What is the cheapest electric car?
If you're simply looking for the least expensive electric car you can buy today, look no further than the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV 1LT. One of my favorite electric cars since its debut back in 2016, the Bolt is just full of simple surprises. Despite being the cheapest new EV on sale today, it boasts a remarkably high range. There's more interior volume for people and cargo than you'd expect in such a compact footprint. And as dashboard displays become larger and more pervasive, the Bolt's Android Auto or Apple CarPlay-based infotainment is a breath of uncomplicated fresh air.
About the only negative thing I can say about the 2023 Bolt EV is that you'll have to act fast to snag one. Chevy has announced the end of production for the current Bolt EV and the larger Bolt EUV at the end of this year -- that's after it extended production through December due to "unprecedented demand." It could be a few years before the Ultium-based replacement hits the road (and who knows how much that will cost), so get 'em while they're hot.
Cheapest electric cars of 2024
2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV 1LT, $27,495
The least expensive EV
If you're simply looking for the least expensive electric car you can buy today, look no further than the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV 1LT. One of my favorite electric cars since its debut back in 2016, the Bolt is full of simple surprises. Despite being the cheapest new EV on sale today, it boasts a remarkably high range. There's more interior volume for people and cargo than you'd expect in such a compact footprint. And as dashboard displays become larger and more pervasive, the Bolt's Android Auto or Apple CarPlay-based infotainment is a breath of uncomplicated fresh air.
About the only negative thing I can say about the 2023 Bolt EV is that you'll have to act fast to snag one. Chevy has announced the end of production for the current Bolt EV and the larger Bolt EUV at the end of this year -- that's after it extended production through December due to "unprecedented demand." It could be a few years before the Ultium-based replacement hits the road (and who knows how much that will cost), so get 'em while they're hot.
Pros:
- Compact, city friendly design
- Spacious interior
- Uncomplicated tech
Cons:
- Limited production ending later this year
- Slow DC charging
Additional attributes:
- Efficiency: 28 kWh/100 mi, 120 mpge
- Range: 259 miles
- Features: Android Auto, Apple CarPlay
- IRA qualification: Yes, up to $7,500
2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV 1LT, $28,795
The least expensive EV, part 2
No, you're not seeing double. The Bolt EUV takes everything that's great about the Bolt EV and stretches it across a larger canvas. With more space for passengers and cargo, the EUV is, perhaps, a better fit for young families for not much more money than its smaller sibling. Plus, it can be had with GM's amazing hands-free Super Cruise highway assist. However, the extra girth comes at the cost of a bit of range, dropping to a still respectable 247 miles per charge. A fantastic value, the Bolt EUV is a great entry point into an EV lifestyle.
Pros:
- Excellent urban driving range
- Can be had with GM Super Cruise hands-free highway assist
Cons
- Slow charging speed discourages long road trips
- Limited production ends this year
Additional Attributes
- Efficiency: 29 kWh/100 mi, 115 mpge
- Range: 247 miles
- Features: Super Cruise highway assist, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay
- IRA qualification: Yes, up to $7,500