The deteriorating environmental situation in large cities is forcing automakers to design alternative transport that doesn’t pollute the atmosphere. Drivers, in turn, are also considering ways to save fuel in conditions of steadily increasing prices on gas stations. In such conditions, compact electric cars seem to be the most ideal vehicle in all respects.
The following review presents the most popular models of electric vehicles, and fortunately, some of them can be tried. You can reserve a car where you need with EZ car rental US and get a unique experience of driving your desired car without buying it.
Nissan Leaf
Nissan Leaf, which has been produced since 2010, not only doesn’t become outdated but has already received cult status. At the moment, this car with an aggressive design, comfortable interior, and high technology is the most popular and sold an electric car in the world.
Although this front-wheel-drive model is considered to be a city car, it has an impressive indicator of aerodynamics and a 108-hp engine. Under the hood of a hatchback – a lithium-ion battery consisting of 192 cells, a full charge of which is enough for 121 kilometers.
At a special station, it replenishes the charge by 80% in half an hour, but from a household outlet – in 9 hours. Moreover, the model received two charging slots at once – for standard and quick recharging. The car doesn’t feature the phenomenal acceleration dynamics, but it’s not so important for urban traveling.
Tesla Model X
This model was the first Tesla’s compact crossover, made in an ultra-modern design. The car’s interior is so spacious that it can accommodate 7 people on three rows of seats. Comfort is successfully complemented by a functional dashboard with all the necessary control keys.
A huge panoramic windshield, door sensors for safe parking, an interior air cleaning system and acceleration to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds make the model incredibly popular.
With a charged battery, the car drives for about 400 kilometers. In conjunction with a spacious trunk and free compartment under the hood, as well as two powerful electric engines you get a great car for all occasions.
Ford Focus Electric
After the loss of interest among customers, Ford decided to remind of itself with the most progressive electric car. This powerful vehicle boasts a reliable block of lithium-ion batteries, which provides 143-hp and accelerates the car to 136 km/h.
The battery allows the driver to travel 120 km on one charge. Also, the model has an intelligent Smart Gauge system that calculates the maximum distance for which the current battery charge is enough, while regenerative braking provides the maximum return on a battery charge, and at the same time, significant fuel efficiency.
If you refill the car at a special station, then a full battery’s charge can be reached in 4 hours, from a standard outlet – in 8 hours. This hatchback is an ideal city car, saving a family budget.
Volkswagen E-Golf
German engineers succeed in everything, whatever they undertake. A perfect example of this is the Volkswagen E-Golf model, which is considered to be one of the world’s best electric vehicles.
This compact hatchback is quite suitable for family use or for small out-of-town trips. Engineers placed a 115-hp synchronous electric motor into the car and connected it to a unique German transmission. It provides 270 Nm and pleases the owner with intense and smooth acceleration.
Customers can trust this car just for the reason that it’s a long-proven model, turned into an electric vehicle. Its power is enough to accelerate the maximum loaded car up to 140 km/h, and with the help of several operating modes, this car can drive 130 – 190 km without recharging.
A professional electric refill will charge up to 80% of the battery in just half an hour, while a simple outlet needs 6-7 hours. In order to avoid overheating of the precious battery, the model has a special cooling system.
BMW i3
This compact electric car from the legendary German manufacturer is ideally suited for use in the city, although the technical parameters allow it to have even long-distance trips in the presence of power stations for recharging on the way.
It’s similar in size to the Ford Fiesta but has less weight due to the body parts made of carbon fiber and aluminum.
The interior and exterior of the model are incredibly modern and futuristic. On one charge, it’s able to travel 130-180 km, while developing a maximum speed of 150 km/h. The major feature of the BMW i3 is the possibility of equipping with the internal combustion engine, which won’t have a drive on the wheels but will serve as a generator if the main battery is discharged.
Renault ZOE
This small car is the flagship of the French Zero Emissions family. The model, presented to the general public as a concept back in 2009, has rechargeable batteries under its seats but is spared from the exhaust system. Thus, the volume of the trunk is 336 liters, which provides excellent capacity.
Despite the 88-hp engine, Zoe pleasantly surprises with its quick temper. The car accelerates to 100 km in 13.5 seconds, with a top speed of 135 km/h – that’s why the car is considered to be too slow.
However, ZOE is really a competent combination of practicality, functionality, and comfort. The only drawback of the car is the high cost. But even the price doesn’t prevent the model from entering the top ten best-selling electric cars in the world.