Rise Of The Electric SUV: What Is The Best Electric SUV?

Are you in search of an eco-friendly set of wheels that won't let you down when it comes to space and style? Look no further than the electric SUV. With the automotive landscape moving towards the green direction in the world, finding the best electric SUV can pretty much be an intimidating task.

But don't you worry, in this article we would talk about some of the best best electric SUVs that you can buy in 2024.

So, read on.

 

Electric SUVs In The Current Automotive Landscape

But first, before proceeding directly to the top electric SUV, it is better to realize the current state of the SUVs on the automotive landscape. Sport utility vehicles have basically been dominating the market for years, offering a spacious interior, versatile capabilities, and commanding road presence.

The SUVs, in general, which are traditionally gasoline engine powered, have been condemned for their bad environmental influence that takes the level of pollution higher and contributes to changes in climate.

However, the scenario appears to be changing with the emergence of electric vehicles. More and more consumers throughout the world are being attracted towards the driving of an electric car: on the one hand, environmental concerns, and on the other hand, government incentives as well as hopes for lower operating costs.

It has led to automakers making heavy investments in electric SUVs to merge the two functional and popular segments with efficiency and sustainability - all much to the benefit of the electric powertrains. In this changing paradigm, the question remains: what is the best electric SUV? So if you are also in a dilemma about the best electric SUV to choose from the available options in the market and are a little confused about which is the best, then this is the list you should peruse. Here are some of the best electric SUVs that you can consider buying in 2024.

 

What is the Best Electric SUV

When it comes to best electric SUV, they are not a one size fit all. So here are 6 best electric SUVs dominating the market and having positive reviews from its users.

Below is a detailed account of all of them.

 

1.    Kia EV6

The Kia EV6, a modern electric crossover, combines elegance and innovation with its sleek design. The battery comes in two power options: a 58 kWh that comes with the base offering on rear-wheel drive, powering with 125 kW and a range of up to 232 miles, and the next performance level is a 77.4 kWh unit.

That very energy unit is in the offering for both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive, and it pushes up to 253 kW power.

This increases the range to 310 miles, for the rear-wheel edition, fitted with the larger battery, with the all-wheel-drive version sprinting from 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds.

2.    BMW iX

The iX comes programmed to turn out as the first premier all-electric SUV from BMW, with a progressive design and ample interior space, the cockpit highly advanced and equipped with the latest technology.

It is designed with a 105.2kWh battery, dual electric motors for all-wheel drive, managing to return an impressive 370kW output. The top speed, however, is limited by the manufacturer to 124 mph, together with a 300-mile range as given by the manufacturer on the EPA cycle.

Quick charging also allows for an additional 90 miles within 10 minutes for the same model.

3.    Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is top among the U.S. electric sports utility vehicle class with styling, roomy interior, and performance, and has even better range.

At the heart of this electric vehicle is a battery, where customers have the choice of choosing between two: 57.5 kWh, standard range for power with rear-wheel drive and 75kWh, long range for all-wheel drive, which was good for 244 and 353 miles, respectively.

The Performance package takes it up to 340 kW, and thus 0-60 mph drops to 3.5 seconds. Its fast-charging capacity stands at 250 kW, charging 162 miles in 15 minutes when equipped, and the advanced Autopilot suite for an enhanced driving experience.

4.    Audi Q4 e-tron

Debuting soon, the Audi Q4 e-tron will seriously upset the apple cart in the compact electric SUV niche with its luxurious design, spacious cabin, and seamless performance.

It has two drivetrain configurations: the Q4 40 e-tron with a 77 kWh battery offering 265 miles of range with rear-wheel-drive capability and Q4 50 e-tron quattro, which has an all-wheel-drive setup, covering 236 miles and 242 miles with its normal and Sportback versions.

Is able to deliver 150 kW or 220 kW in the Q4 40 and Q4 50 with a quick charging option for lesser downtimes. It also has advanced driver aids, thus ensuring increased safety and convenience.

5.    Mercedes-Benz EQB

The Mercedes-Benz EQB takes the luxury and driving qualities of the compact electric SUV class to an even higher level.

The Mercedes has two versions, which include the EQB 250 with a 66.5kWh battery to the EQB for front-wheel-drive, while the EQB 300 has a 77kWh battery with all-wheel drive, both rated to 240 and 260 miles, respectively.

A fast refill is secured, up to 100 kW of charging. The EQB is packed with a full range of safety equipment, which makes driving more comfortable, but more importantly, safe.

6.    BYD Atto 3

The design and practical features of the BYD Atto 3 are not only attractive but also spacious at the price point it sells for.

On the other hand, this 60 kWh battery model for the subcompact electric SUV front-wheel drive reaches a brilliant 420 km (261 miles) of range. Driving-wise, it's all very decent—7.3 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h, thanks to a 150 kW motor.

Quick-charging capability of the car of up to 89 kW and vehicle-to-load (V2L) device that supplies power to electric devices outside the vehicle add up to its profile.

These are thus the top electric SUVs to consider buying in 2024. All you have to do is to pick one based on your needs and budget.

 

Top Benefits of Electric SUVs

Well, as you know all benefits if electric vehicles in this world. So what are the benefits for electric SUVs?

We will discuss it in detail.

1.   Versatile and Spacious: Just like conventional SUVs, electric SUVs are spacious and flexible, they have large cargo areas, and can accommodate many people. As such, they are best suited for families, outdoor lovers, and individuals who need the extra room to pack gear or tools.
2.   Off-Road Capability: Most electric SUVs are offered with AWD options and robust suspension systems, meaning that they can perform well off-road. Whether one is crossing the rocky trails or dealing with inclement weather, electric SUVs still provide traction and stability while on a game drive.
3.   Safety Features: Most of the electric SUVs are found to be engineered with the inclusion of some of the safety features that are quite advanced, and they include the collision avoidance system, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping aid. This is to ensure the safety of those within the car while on the road, hence reducing the chances of the occurrence of accidents or collisions.
4.   Longer Range: The range, of course, could vary with models, but electric SUVs will generally have a longer driving range as compared to other classes of electric vehicles. This longer range is perfect for use in long-distance travel, during road trips, and regular commuting, where so many charging stops cannot be made.

Charging Methods of Electric SUVs

There are different charging methods you can use to charge your electric SUV.

Let's discuss them in detail.

Level 1 Charging (Trickle Charge)

Level 1 charging uses a common 120-volt outlet of the alternating current kind, typical to most homes across North America.

It's considered the slowest method due to its capability of offering a range of only 3 to 5 miles per hour of charging, ideal for people who don't cover many miles in a day or those who want to charge their car overnight.

Best for home charging when time is not an issue​.

Level 2 Charging (AC Charge)

Level 2 charging is much faster than Level 1 and uses a 240V AC outlet—very similar to the ones used by large household appliances such as dryers.

So, in something under an eight-hour period, this approach can be used to charge an electric SUV to something in the order of 180 miles of range depending upon the vehicle's acceptance rate and the maximum current of the charger.

DC Fast Charging

The last charger is the DC Fast Charging, sometimes known as Level 3 charging, which provides the fastest charging: This charges by directing energy directly to the battery, bypassing the vehicle's onboard charger.

With chargers that could add 50 up to 350 kW of power, substantial charge in 20 to 30 minutes may be doable for long travels.

Primarily found at public charging stations, perfect for road trips or when in urgent need of a quick charge​​.

Photo by: Mark Chan