Exciting Upcoming Electric Vehicles Set to Transform 2024
Written on
The growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) continues to rise, yet many U.S. consumers still favor traditional gasoline-powered cars. This preference stems from various factors, notably the limited availability of certain vehicle types across different price points.
For example, electric three-row SUVs and minivans are virtually non-existent, while the utility of electric pickup trucks is often questioned due to significant range reductions when under load. Additionally, options for smaller, budget-friendly models under $30,000 are scarce.
Fortunately, these gaps in the market are expected to be addressed with new offerings arriving next year.
- Tesla Model 3 Highland — Enhancements for the Best
The Tesla Model 3 has consistently been hailed as the top choice for average consumers, thanks to its impressive range, energetic powertrains, and extensive charging infrastructure. For 2024, Tesla's most affordable model will receive notable upgrades, including a more appealing design, a quieter and more upscale interior, refined suspension, and approximately a 10% increase in range.
However, some design decisions have raised eyebrows. The Model 3 now mirrors the Model S and X by eliminating physical stalks behind the steering wheel, meaning drive selection is now done via an on-screen interface, and turn signals are activated through capacitive buttons on the wheel. At least it avoids the yoke design, though.
While pricing details are pending, it is anticipated to start around $40,000, similar to its predecessor.
- Jeep Recon — Off-Road Charging Adventure
The Jeep Recon aims to be the first electric off-road vehicle with Rubicon capabilities. It will bear a strong resemblance to the Wrangler, featuring removable body panels and robust off-road features that align with the Jeep brand.
Currently, its main competitor is the Rivian R1S, priced over $78,000. While official pricing and range data are yet to be disclosed, Car and Driver predicts the Recon will start around $60,000, making it a compelling option for off-road enthusiasts. If it's based on the same platform as the upcoming Wagoneer S, known for nearly 400 miles per charge, the Recon could achieve around 300 miles of range, considering its off-road tires and boxy design.
There's also speculation that the Recon might sport a 600-horsepower engine, delivering exhilarating sub-4-second acceleration.
- Volkswagen ID.7 — Impressive Range Capabilities
Volkswagen's EV lineup hasn't always garnered positive reviews, primarily due to subpar infotainment systems, bland aesthetics, and average specifications. Nevertheless, these vehicles have consistently offered good value for money.
The ID.7, the company's new flagship, showcases the latest in VW technology. It features a new motor producing 282 horsepower, up from 201 in its predecessor, a user-friendly 15" touchscreen, and enhanced efficiency, translating to 435 miles on the European WLTP cycle. In real-world conditions, expect around 390 miles with the larger battery or 330 miles with the standard version.
For those seeking more power, an all-wheel-drive variant will be available, likely exceeding 400 horsepower.
The ID.7 is expected to start at around $50,000, justifying its price by offering nearly the same dimensions as a Model S, a luxurious ride, and excellent range, making it an ideal choice for road trips.
- Kia EV9 — The Quiet Family SUV
If you're in the market for a spacious three-row SUV, your choices are typically limited to high-end models like the Rivian R1S, Volvo EX90, or Tesla Model X. The base-model EV9, priced at a more accessible $56,000, offers 230 miles of range and 215 horsepower. Given these figures, many buyers will likely opt for the $65,000 Wind trim, which provides a robust 379-horsepower all-wheel-drive system and 280 miles of range.
For families planning road trips, the EV9 boasts 20 cubic feet of cargo space behind all three rows, can charge from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes, and has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
Is the EV9 flawless? No, but it's a commendable first effort to create an affordable three-row electric SUV.
- Volvo EX30 — A Genuine Competitor to Tesla
The EX30 represents Volvo's initial foray into crafting an affordable EV that combines luxury with impressive specifications. Despite being a debut model, Volvo has exceeded expectations, making it a notable contender in the market.
In today's landscape of entry-level luxury SUVs, finding one under $40,000 is challenging. However, the EX30 comes standard with an impressive 275-mile range and 268 horsepower at a price of just $35,000. Additionally, it offers an optional 422-horsepower all-wheel-drive system, a well-crafted interior, and a rapid 10% to 80% charge time of 26 minutes, showcasing Volvo's knack for creating affordable EVs.
The only lingering question is how quickly Volvo can ramp up production.
- Lucid Gravity — The Pinnacle of Electric Vehicles
Lucid made waves with the launch of its Air sedan, setting new standards for range, performance, luxury interiors, and driving dynamics, surpassing Tesla. However, its high price has made market penetration difficult, compounded by Lucid's lack of brand prestige compared to its German rivals.
Enter the Gravity, starting at $80,000, which aligns with competitors while presenting a more advanced user interface, the same exceptional specifications, and seating for up to seven passengers. The demand for ultra-luxurious SUVs far exceeds that for premium sedans.
With a range of up to 440 miles, 800 horsepower, and a drag coefficient lower than that of the Tesla Model X, the Gravity is poised to be one of the most remarkable EVs launching in the coming year.
- Chevy Equinox EV — The Affordable Future
For those who find an $80,000+ EV out of reach, the Equinox EV offers a more budget-friendly alternative. Although it's a two-row vehicle, it spans 190 inches, providing a maximum cargo volume of around 60 cubic feet. The standard model features 210 horsepower and a 250-mile range, priced at just $35,000.
While the Volvo EX30 may present a better deal at this price point (despite its smaller size), the Equinox qualifies for a $7,500 tax credit, which the EX30 does not. The Chevy can also be equipped with a 290-horsepower all-wheel-drive system and a 320-mile range for $52,000, or as low as $44,500 with the tax credit.
Given that the average new car price in the U.S. is now around $48,000, the Equinox EV provides excellent value.
- Ram 1500 Ramcharger — The Pickup with an Edge
Electric pickups face distinct challenges, including efficiency issues due to large battery packs and limited towing ranges often falling short of 200 miles. Charging while towing can also be complicated.
Ram has tackled these challenges with an innovative approach. The Ramcharger includes a 92-kWh battery that offers a claimed 150 miles of range, supplemented by a V6 engine that acts as a generator to recharge the battery. Together, this setup provides a combined range of 690 miles, while the engine remains disconnected from the wheels, allowing for an authentic EV driving experience.
The advantage here is that when towing, drivers can easily stop at a gas station to refill a 27-gallon gas tank, continuing their journey without hassle. While it may not surpass an EV counterpart in efficiency, assuming most daily driving occurs without the gas generator, the Ramcharger is likely to produce about half the emissions of a typical electric truck.
- Caterham Project V — Challenging Gravity
A more niche offering on this list is the Caterham Project V. While it may not boast groundbreaking specifications at a strikingly low price, it serves to demonstrate that EVs can indeed be lightweight. Weighing in at 2,600 pounds—just 200 pounds heavier than a Mazda Miata—the Project V is among the lightest EVs available.
Most of its weight savings stem from its aluminum chassis and carbon fiber body panels, which may not provide the best value for money. However, that isn't the primary point.
The key selling feature of the Caterham is that it doesn't require 1,000 horsepower to achieve impressive speed; just 268 horsepower will suffice. It also doesn't need a 100 kWh battery for respectable range—55 kWh is adequate.
If other upcoming EVs can reduce their weight to match that of gasoline vehicles, potential buyers may be more inclined to consider them.
- Canoo Lifestyle Vehicle — Embracing Uniqueness
While many automakers are introducing dedicated EV platforms, numerous vehicles still resemble conventional cars. Canoo has opted for a distinctive approach.
By eliminating the hood altogether, Canoo has created a vehicle that allows visibility of the road directly ahead through a window positioned below the windshield.
The Canoo can accommodate up to seven passengers, although its seating arrangement is more lounge-like than traditional. Passengers sit in a circular formation, with three seats in the back and one seat integrated into each rear door. While this design fosters a sense of community among passengers, it does reduce maximum cargo space since traditional seat rows cannot be folded down.
Nevertheless, it's remarkable that it can seat seven in a footprint of just 174 inches, comparable to a compact crossover.
Pricing is expected to start around $50,000, positioning it as a comparable option to the similarly unique Volkswagen ID. Buzz.