Thinking about buying an electric vehicle (EV)? They’re a good option if you want to save money on gas and maintenance and reduce your carbon footprint, but not all EVs are built the same.
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According to car experts, some models stand out for their reliability, performance and long-term value. To help narrow down your search, here are EVs they recommend and why they’re worth a closer look.
And while you’re on the hunt for an electric, make sure you avoid these rides.
Tesla Model 3
MSRP: $44,130 to $56,630
“Tesla tops the list for me. Model 3 is the best of them all. They are futuristic styled. They have all the features one would want in a vehicle, especially in the electronics aspect. They have good battery life and battery distance,” Chris Pyle, auto expert with JustAnswer, the expert on-demand platform, wrote in an email.
It also retains its value as long as you trade them in before the battery starts to wear out, he noted. But that could take years. According to Insurify, the average lifespan of a Tesla battery is between $300,000 to $500,000 miles, or 15 to 20 years of use.
“Tesla’s battery system is unique, and in many ways, it’s superior to what other brands offer,” added Melanie Musson, an auto expert with Quote.com. Its placement and weight is another pro, Musson pointed out, which can help the Model 3 maintain balance on the road and handle corners well.
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Lucid Air
MSRP: $71,400 to $250,500
According to Pyle, the Lucid Air, a luxury sedan that first launched in the 2022 model year, is often seen at the top of lists. Its recent launch and price also mean it’s a rarity on the road.
Pyle has never seen or talked to anyone who’s driven one, but he said it looks great.
“The distance to empty is at the higher range. Downfall though, is that the car is very expensive and when it breaks, finding a shop near you will be next to impossible, but EVs rarely go to the shop,” he wrote.
Ford F-150 Lightning
MSRP: $56,975 to $87,190
Want something tough but environmentally friendly? Musson recommends the Ford F-150 Lightning.
“Drivers who are looking for something that can handle off-road situations praise the Lightning for its toughness,” Musson wrote.
It’s powerful yet quiet, and comes with top-of-the-line features.
“It’s a good mix of rugged traditional truck capabilities and luxurious modern electric mechanics,” Musson added. “The Lightning holds its value well, which is not something many EVs have been able to do.”
Hyundai Ioniq 6, Kia EV4 and Kia Niro EV
Ioniq 6 MSRP: $39,095 and $52,345
Kia EV4 MSRP: $37,000 to $50,000
Kia Niro EV MSRP: $40,0995 and $45,523
When it comes to budget-friendly EVs with solid range and reliability, Hyundai and Kia are hard to ignore.
“Although I think the Ioniq is ugly, Kia and Hyundai are putting in the work to make affordable vehicles that have what you need, most of what you want and the longevity and low repair costs you expect,” Pyle claimed.
He also pointed out that both brands choose to focus on longevity, low repair costs and repeat customers rather than a wow moment with sleek designs.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I’m a Mechanic: 6 Electric Vehicles I Would Buy and Why They Are Worth It
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