An electric car or electric vehicle (EV) is an automobile that is powered by one or more electric motors that use electrical energy stored in rechargeable batteries. These batteries are recharged by common household electricity.
Approximately three times as efficient as cars with an internal combustion or gasoline engine, EVs were popular until advances in internal combustion engines and mass production of cheaper gasoline vehicles led to a decline in their use.
With improvements in battery technology, increased energy storage, and reduced costs, top automobile companies are popularizing these vehicles now, thus reducing our dependency on oil and at the same time producing no direct emissions. With renewable energy such as hydro, wind and solar, the emission benefits are dramatic.
Convenient recharging of electric cars can be done in a few hours at home, about 20 to 25 miles of range in an hour of charging from a 240-volt source of electricity. Also, the only maintenance it requires is that its tires have to be rotated and kept inflated routinely.
Quiet and smooth with better drive quality, electric cars have surprisingly high torque and provide an exhilarating driving experience.
‘Range Anxiety’ that usually worries electric car drivers is no longer such an issue because most electric cars are increasing their MPGe* and the option of a backup range extending engine is available for some too.
Though more expensively priced, the electric vehicle’s lower maintenance costs and a luxury feel and amenities compensates well. Reimagine the future of mobility in the U.S. with this list of 10 best electric cars. Go on a power trip!
- BMW i3 – This purely electric car gets up to 118 MPGe.
- Chevy Bolt EV – At 119 MPGe the is simply one of the best in the market.
- Fiat 500e – This cute one provides an official range of 84 MPGe.
- Ford Focus Electric – Ford’s only 100% electric car spills 118 MPGe.
- Hyundai IONIQ Electric – Even with thoughtful amenities and a 124 MPGe, this one is not very popular yet.
- Kia Soul EV – Delivering 105 MPGe, this snazzy electric vehicle has a lot of interior space.
- Mercedes B-Class Electric – Lets you enjoy up to 87 MPGe in style and comfort.
- Nissan LEAF – The highest selling 100% electric car in history gives 114 MPGe.
- Tesla Model S – With about 100 MPGe, this one has flipped the electric car and overall auto world on its head in many respects.
- VW e-Golf – Volkswagen’s second electric car model, but the first in the US, estimates 83 MPGe.
*Miles per gallon gasoline equivalent (MPGe or MPGge) is a measure of the average distance traveled per unit of energy consumed.
