Last updated on September 21st, 2023
There is a growing concern today among American motorists on how we might make more of an effort to reduce carbon emissions every day. People are carpooling if possible, using public transport and buying cars that are more sympathetic to our environment. This has led to a much greater variety of cars one might consider when making a buy including electric cars. Below is a graph showing results of how these new varieties compare with each other and to the previously standard automobile.
The results speak for themselves, but there are other benefits of the electric car and the plug-in hybrid. The IRS currently gives a federal tax credit for the buy of a “greener” vehicle, based on certain and depending largely on the battery pack the purchased model possesses. The tax credit can range anywhere from $2,500.00 to $7,500.00. For a better idea, you can go to the IRS “Plug-In Electric Cars Credit” website, or download form 8936, available at IRS Forms and Publications Website.
For those that aren’t necessary car enthusiasts, but would like an idea of what’s currently available in the car market, I’ve compiled the following simple list. You’d surely want to research your car or cars of choice more thoroughly, but this may help you get started narrowing your search. It provides just enough data to help you find out your price after-tax credit is applied, as well.
• EV – Audi A3 Sport back etron – 8.8 kWh battery / 31 mile range / 138 mph top speed. A3s start at $29,900.00 but this has a price TBA
• EV – BMW i3 – 22 kWh battery / 81 mile range / 93 mph top speed. Starts at $41,350.00
• PHEV – BMW i8 – 22 kWh battery / 15 mile range / 155 mph top speed. Many more performance perks – starts at $135,700.00
• PHEV – Cadillac ELR – 16.5 kWh battery / 35 mile range / 100 mph top speed. Starts at $75,000.00.
• PHEV – Chevrolet Volt – 16.5 kWh battery / 38 mile range / 100 mph top speed. Starts at $39,145.00.
• EV – Chevy Spark – 21 kWh battery / 82 mile range / 90 mph top speed. Starts at $26,685.00.
• EV – Fiat 500e – 24 kWh battery / 81 mile range / 85 mph top speed. Starts at $32,500.00
• EV – Ford Focus Electric – 23 kWh battery / 76 mile range / 100 mph top speed. Starts at $39,200.00
• PHEV – Ford C Max Engergi – 7.6 kWh battery / 21 mile range / 90 mph top speed. Starts at $32,950.00
• PHEV – Ford Fusion Energi – 7.6 kWh battery / 21 mile range / 102 mph top speed. Starts at $38,700.00
• PHEV – Honda Accord Plug-In – 6.6 kWh battery / 13 mile range / Top Speed TBA. Starts at $39,780.00
• EV – Kia Soul EV – 27 kWh battery / 93 mile range / 90 mph top speed. Starts at $33,700.00
• EV – Mercedes B-Class Electric Drive – 36 kWh battery / 87 mile range / top speed TBA but estimated at 115 mph. Starts at $41,450.00
• EV – Mitsubishi i – 16 kWh battery / 62 mile range / 81 mph top speed. Starts at $29,125.00.
• EV – Nissan Leaf – 24 kWh battery / 75 mile range / 90 mph top speed. Starts at $28,800.00.
• EV – Tesla Model S – 65 kWh battery / 208 mile range / 120 mph top speed. Starts at $71,070.00(available with 80kWh battery & 265 mile range starting at $79,900.00).
• PHEV – Toyota Plug-In Prius – 4.4 kWh battery / 15 mile range / 112 mph top speed. Starts at $32,000.00.
• EV – Volkswagen e – Golf – 24 kWh battery / 83 mile range / 87 mph top speed. Starts at $36,265.00
• EV – Volvo C30 eV – 24 kWh battery / 94 mile range / 81 mph top speed. Starting price TBA but estimated at $36,990.00.
The PHEV cars here have an extra fuel-powered engine, making them less battery dependent. The ranges are how far they will go before switching to fuel dependence. It is argued that if you have a short commute and live in a moderate climate, the EV is a more choice. For those with farther commutes and colder climates would find the PHEV a more user-friendly environmentally friendly ride.
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