The sales for electric vehicles has seen a positive trend over the years due to advancement in technology coupled with sharp increase in prices of petrol. However, what still seems to be a major deterrent in the way is the higher pricing of these cars, particularly the batteries. Moreover, people often get distracted too much by the technology advancement news which promises lesser charging time, longer drives and so on, but such vehicles seldom arrive. If you are still wondering whether it’s the right time to buy such a vehicle or if you are not sure about a particular brand, this article will sure throw some light in this area.
1. Mitsubishi i-MiEV (2011)
New Mitsubishi i-MiEV which debuted earlier this year costs nearly £33000 after a government waiver. It is considered as a big competitor for the Nissan Leaf EV which is similar category car launched at the same time. The urban vehicle with 4 seats and nearly 80 mile range has a top speed of 81mph. It weighs a mere 1105kg and has very compact dimensions, which makes parking easy. Recharging takes nearly 6 hours when connected to the domestic set-up. It could alternatively be done in just 30 minutes at nearest rapid charge system.
2. Peugeot ION electric car in UK
Peugeot ION is the very first of those cars which have been selected by the government for its grant. This next generation compact vehicle has a range of impressive 93 miles and can be recharged easily from home or via a quick charge station in less than an hour. The UK customers can also avail company's “all-inclusive” mobility offer which covers 4 year 40,000 mile contract, with a monthly payment of nearly £400.
3. Tesla Roadster
Probably the most renowned and capable of all electric cars in the world, Tesla Roadster also has a wide network of high power charging stations across the UK. It has an incredible torque and acceleration which gives it a near sports car feel. What is amazing though is its 212 miles of drive range which makes it’s an ideal touring vehicle. Another major advantage of owning this vehicle is that it makes no compromise in the styling and comfort features which are invariably downplayed by other car-makers in order to make their electric cars light and affordable.
4. Ford Focus EV
Ford Focus EV was revealed for the very first time at 2011 consumer electronics show in Las Vegas ahead and again at the Detroit motor show. The lithium-ion battery based compact car can reach 84mph and could be easily charged from home. There are some very smart innovations inside the cabin which improves the driving convenience and comfort. One of these features allows smart phone owners to charge their car remotely as well as monitor its battery status on phone. By 2013, this car will enter the US markets.
5. Liberty Range Rover Electric Car
The £160,000 figure might seem exaggerated, though, how often do you see a Range Rover Vogue running on batteries? That is what liberty has gained expertise upon converting a 3 tonne mean looking off-roader into a green vehicle with zero tailpipe emissions. The diesel engine and turbochargers are replaced by silent battery driven motors on each of the four wheels. Charge it for 10-12 hours from your home and you are ready to go up to 200 mile range.
6. Fisker Karma Electric Car
Fisker Karma is a revolutionary concept electric vehicle that was launched in 2009 at the Detroit Auto Show. Though Karma is quite luxurious, it has received mix response from the market and critics due to its not so promising mileage. The American hybrid when running on its range extender gasoline engine can cover 20 miles per gallon. It’s a vehicle for cities as on batteries it can go only 32 miles in a single charge.
7. Toyota Scion iQ Electric Car
World’s biggest carmaker Toyota’s Scion iQ has been selling well in European and American markets while its electric versions are eagerly awaited. The Japanese car-maker recently announced its official release in US, in 2012, which makes it a probable entrant in the UK in the very near future. The three door car looks quite futuristic from exteriors while interiors are also up class.
8. Vauxhall Ampera Electric Car
You can cover nearly 50 miles on Ampera's lithium ion battery and can reach up to another 310 miles with its 1.4 liter (82 HP) petrol-fueled electric generator. As an added benefit you don’t have to face inconvenience once the batteries are out of charge since it is equipped with small capable combustion engine. This engine can efficiently take your vehicle to a nearest charging station where you could start the batteries again.
