Top 7 Electric Cars for Budget-Minded Drivers in 2023

Electric cars are becoming increasingly popular due to a variety of reasons. Some people are concerned about the environment (even though we are not sure how “clean” EVs are), others like how smooth and quiet electric cars are while some are just focusing on the lower running costs compared to a combustion engine car. While electric cars may have been considered a luxury item in the past, there are now many affordable options available for those who want to make the switch. In this article, we will explore the most affordable electric car models on the market in 2023, including the Dacia Spring, Smart EQ fortwo, Volkswagen e-Up, Fiat 500e 24kW, Nissan Leaf, Peugeot e-208, and Tesla Model 3 Standard Range (we now it’s not really an affordable one).

What are the most affordable electric cars in 2023?

This article will talk about some of the most affordable electric cars on the market:

• Dacia Spring
• Smart EQ fortwo
• Volkswage e-Up
• Fiat 500e 24kW
• Nissan Leaf
• Peugeot e-208
• Tesla Model 3 Standard Range

Dacia Spring: The Cheapest Electric Car on the Market- €22,500

The Dacia Spring is the cheapest electric car on the market, with a price tag of only €22,500. Despite its ridiculously low price, it has a 25kW battery and a range of 165km. However, the car has received poor safety ratings, and many people criticize its design and build quality. Its very small cabin size limits it to primarily in-town routes. 

Smart EQ fortwo: A Strictly City Car- €23,000

The Smart EQ fortwo is a two-seater electric car that comes at €23,000. With a 16.7kW battery and a range of 100km, this car is also strictly for city use due to its low range and small size. The car also does not offer fast charging. That should not discourage you considering it, especially if you would like to go on the used market. You can find used models as low as €13 000. When choosing the car you should pay attention whether it’s equipped with the additional 22kW on-board charger. Models which do not have this on-board charger included can be charged with speeds up to 4.6kW at most.  

Volkswagen e-Up: A Bigger Battery at an Affordable Price- €26,000

The Volkswagen e-Up comes with a bigger battery than its price-point competitors- 32.3kW and a price tag of €26,000. The car has a range of 205km, allowing for small out-of-town trips. This is one very popular electric car which can be noticed daily on the streets due to its practicality and reliability. The cars can be charged at home with speeds of up to 7.2kW. The car also features fast-charging at 37kW/h. Since the model is already 10 years old you can also check the used market for cheaper deals. 

Fiat 500e 24kW: Stylish and Fast-Charging- €30,000

The Fiat 500e 24kW is priced at €30,000 and was one of the best-selling EVs in Europe for 2022. It offers fast charging, a range of 135km, and a very stylish design. It is exactly for its design why this car brings so much attention. The Fiat also offers great safety and technology features including Lane-Assist, Emergency Braking, Auto Steering, Android Auto/ CarPlay and others. This is why the Fiat 500e was the 3rd best-selling electric car in Europe after the Tesla Model 3 and Y (47 000 units). 

Nissan Leaf: One of the First Mass-Produced Electric Cars- €35,000

The Nissan Leaf is one of the first mass-produced electric cars, with a 39kW battery and a price tag of €35,000. The car has a range of 235km, making it a good option for longer trips. In terms of technology, the e-208 is packed with advanced features, including a 3D digital instrument cluster and a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The car also has a range of driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, to make driving safer and more convenient.

Peugeot e-208: A Big Battery and Long Range- €35,000

The Peugeot e-208 has a 45kW battery, which is significantly bigger than the other cars in this article. It has a range of 285km and a price tag of €35,000. In terms of technology, the e-208 is packed with advanced features, including a 3D digital instrument cluster and a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The car also has a range of driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, to make driving safer and more convenient.

Tesla Model 3 Standard Range: The Ultimate EV under €50 000

While the Tesla Model 3 Standard Range is definitely not an affordable option compared to the other options, with a price of €46,000, it is a car that can be used daily both as a city and highway cruiser thanks to its high range, very fast charging, and large storage compartments. One of the standout features of the Model 3 is its advanced technology. It comes with a 15-inch touchscreen display that controls everything from the car's music and climate settings to its autopilot features. The car also comes with a range of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. In terms of practicality, the Model 3 has a spacious and comfortable interior, with seating for up to five passengers. The car also has a large trunk and a front trunk (or "frunk") that provide ample storage space. Additionally, the car's charging network (Tesla Superchargers) allows for quick and easy recharging during long road trips.

Final thoughts on the most affordable electric vehicles in 2023

In conclusion, electric cars are becoming more accessible to a wider range of consumers. The most affordable electric car models on the market in 2023 include the Dacia Spring, Smart EQ fortwo, Volkswagen e-Up, Fiat 500e 24kW, Nissan Leaf, Peugeot e-208, and Tesla Model 3 Standard Range. When considering a purchase, it is important to take into account factors such as range, charging capabilities, safety, and overall quality. With the increase in the number of affordable electric car models, it is becoming easier to make the switch to a more sustainable mode of transportation.