Top 10 Most Affordable Electric Vehicles

Since the pandemic, prices of all vehicles have risen sharply. Even for electric vehicles, the bill remains high for many models. However, there are still some good deals to be had on the market, especially as the provincial subsidy is still available in addition to the federal one. Together, the two subsidies can save you up to $12,000 on the price of a vehicle, once taxes have been applied. To simplify your search, we've put together a top 10 list of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market today.

Keep in mind that these are just a few models, and that this list is subject to change due to the arrival of a new model or price adjustments by the manufacturers, which are always possible. Enjoy your discovery!

1 — Fiat 500e

Price: $39,995

The Fiat 500e is a new model entering the market in 2024. The Fiat 500 is well-known, but we will have an all-electric variant this time. It will feature a 42 kWh battery, which is small, but considering the size of the model, it will still be sufficient to offer 240 km in all-electric mode.

The big question with this Fiat will be its reliability. This manufacturer has a terrible reputation. Can it turn the tide with this all-new electric model?We'll find out over time, but this is one of the most affordable electric vehicle models available today.

2 — Nissan LEAF

Price: $41,448

The Nissan LEAF ranks second in our list, but it's important to note that this model is offered with two battery sizes: 40 kWh and 60 kWh. The version with the smaller battery is offered at the best price. The compromise is the range, limited to 240 km with this model. With the 60 kWh battery, the range increases to nearly 350 km, but at a higher cost. With a price tag of just over $40,000, this is a pretty affordable electric model!

3 — Mazda MX-30

Price: $42,650

The Mazda MX-30 is a good vehicle, but it is difficult to recommend due to its limited range, only 161 kilometres in optimal conditions. One could live with it if the MX-30 was offered at $25,000, but that's not the case. That's why it's no longer sold in the United States, and its career could also be very short here.

4 — Kia Niro EV

Price: $45,595

With Kia's new electric vehicles (the EV6 and EV9), it's easy to overlook a model like the Niro EV, which has been with us for a few years. This vehicle is also offered in a hybrid configuration and offers up to 407 km of range in all-electric mode. The only drawback is that it is only available with front-wheel drive. For some, this is not a problem. Otherwise, you have an honest product here and as we're still under the $50,000 mark, that makes the Niro EV one of the most affordable electric vehicles around at the moment.

5 — Hyundai Kona EV

Price: $46,399

The Hyundai Kona EV is brand new for 2024; frankly, Hyundai has done an excellent job redesigning this model. Interestingly, the first generation was initially designed with a gasoline engine, then offered as an electric option. Here, they have developed an electric model that is also offered with a gasoline engine. With a range of 415 km, you get excellent value for money here.

6 — Mini Cooper SE

Price: $48,190

If we follow our logic regarding the Mazda MX-30, we can't recommend buying the Mini Cooper SE because, for the price, it offers a low range of 183 km. That's disappointing, frankly. On the upside, this car is all about the driving pleasure it provides. It embodies the Mini spirit in every way. The good news is that a new version is expected in 2025, with a larger battery and an extended range. So, it's worth waiting.

7 — Volkswagen ID. 4

Price: $48,495

With ID.4, you have different options, including a rear-wheel drive model and all-wheel drive variants. The most affordable is rear-wheel drive, with a 336 km range. By spending a little more, you can access all-wheel-drive variants with a larger battery (82 kWh instead of 62 kWh), offering more -, around 443 km. One advantage of the rear-wheel drive version is its availability, so keep that in mind.

8 — Toyota bZ4X

Price: $50,050

The bZ4X is Toyota's first electric vehicle, and since its debut on the market, it hasn't impressed. Its range remains modest at 367 kilometres with the all-wheel drive version and 406 km with the front-wheel drive offering. Surprisingly, both configurations have almost the same battery size: 71.4 kWh versus 72.8 kWh (2WD and 4WD), while the power output is nearly the same (201 and 215 horsepower, respectively). And beware, the loss of range is particularly significant in cold weather, notably when air conditioning is activated. It can drop from 350 km to 260 km with the simple touch of a button. Although we've gone over $50,000 with this model, it's still interesting and affordable, depending on your budget.

9 — Nissan Ariya

Price: $52,998

Nissan gets a second model in our list with its Ariya SUV. It's not flashy, but it gets the job done. Its range remains acceptable at 348 km, so it's up to you to decide if that can meet your needs. These figures are for the front-wheel drive model. With the all-wheel drive variant, which is sold at a higher price, the range is around 430 km. What's interesting about this model is that you can choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, and while it's within your budget, it's still affordable.

10 — Tesla Model 3

Price: $53,990

It's the most expensive model in our top 10, but the Tesla Model 3 is still one of the most affordable electric vehicles available today. Take a picture here, because with Tesla Model's price fluctuations, a model can break into our top ten one day, and be kicked out the next. What you're sure to get here is the best electric technology on the market. Be sure to store around at Tesla, and take a look at the Model Y, whose price is often on the decline too. We suggest you keep an eye on Tesla's products, which may turn out to be more affordable than you think!

As the cost of living rises, so do car prices, which is why we've decided to present you with this top 10 list of the most affordable electric vehicles. Even if prices are higher than they used to be, there are still ways to find a good, affordable model. We hope you find this article useful!

And don't forget that the Roulez Vert government subsidy is still available! However, the amounts available will decrease starting next year. So there's still time to take advantage and get an EV at the best price!

It goes without saying that the prices mentioned in this article may vary and date from March 2024.