A recent Finder survey of 872 Australian drivers has revealed that nearly half (45 per cent) would consider buying an electric vehicle as their next car. And there are plenty of reasons for this.

The research revealed that 27 per cent of drivers are interested in an electric vehicle because it’s better for the planet, 14 per cent are keen to save money on petrol, and 4 per cent just like the way they look.

Whatever the motivation, switching from fuel to an electric vehicle can feel like a big jump, but with more than 14,000 electric cars on the road now, it’s clear that more and more Aussies are ready to make the switch. Let’s take a look at a few of the most accessible models on the market and what you need to know about them.

Hyundai Kona Electric

If you’re looking for a mid-sized vehicle, the Hyundai Kona Electric is worth checking out. Marked as Australia's first 100 per cent electric small SUV, the Hyundai Kona Electric can travel up to a whopping 484km on a single charge.

Depending on your charging station, the Kona Electric can reach an 80 per cent charge in 54 minutes. Although this is a longer timeframe than some of the other vehicles we’ve listed here, you will be getting more mileage out of the charge, so it just depends on your needs.

The Kona Electric also boasts great tech features such as a 10.25 inch touch screen, wireless smartphone charging and an electronic parking brake. Safety is also front-of-mind in this model, with smart cruise control, driver attention warning and blind-spot collision-avoidance assist.

Estimated annual fuel cost: $550*

Tesla Model 3

Tesla is a highly regarded name in the electric vehicle space and if you’d like to be driving around in one without breaking the bank, the Model 3 might be the car for you.

The Base Standard Range Plus model is now priced from $66,900 plus on-road costs, making it currently the lowest price option in Tesla’s fleet. Tesla’s Model 3 can recharge to approximately 327km of range in 15 minutes and travel up 657km on a single charge.

In addition to these features, the Model 3 boasts a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, 12 ultrasonic sensors to prevent collisions and assist with parking, and top speeds of 261km per hour (not that you’re likely to need that, but impressive nonetheless!).

Estimated annual fuel cost: $789*

MG ZS EV

At the other end of the spectrum, the MG ZS EV is currently one of the cheapest electric vehicles on the market in Australia. At $43,990 drive away, the MG ZS EV can drive up to 263km on a full battery and can reach 80 per cent capacity from a 45-minute rapid charge.

MG’s Intelligent Battery Control means that the battery pack is protected from changes in external temperature so as to provide the optimum power and range in any climate. When it comes to driver experience, the MG ZS EV is perfect for inner city driving, with enough power that you won’t be left wanting.

Showing safety is a priority for MG, the ZS EV offers traffic jam assist, lane keep assist, intelligent headlamp control and much more. For the price tag attached, the MG ZS EV has a lot to offer.

Estimated annual fuel cost:  $680*

MINI Electric Hatch

Sporting one of the most iconic designs in hatchback history, the MINI Electric Hatch is Mini Cooper’s first fully electric vehicle. Priced at $59,900, the Electric is going to cost upwards of $14,000 more than its petrol counterpart. However, with the 2020 release already sold out completely, it seems that this is not an issue for dedicated MINI Cooper lovers.

The MINI Electric Hatch will take you up to 233km on a full charge and can give you 80 per cent battery capacity after just 36 minutes of charging on a DC Fast Charger.

MINI’s Electric Hatch can get you from 0-100km/h in 7.3 seconds and is also equipped with wireless phone charging, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, front and rear parking sensors and reversing camera.

Estimated annual fuel cost: N/A

Opting for an electric vehicle has a number of advantages, such as being better for the environment and you can even save money on rego depending on where you live. With more models now available under $75,000, plus a range of financing options, owning an electric car is becoming far more achievable. The important thing is to compare all your options to ensure you find the right car for you.

by Alex Jeffs

Alex Jeffs is a senior publisher and resident car enthusiast at Finder, Australia’s most visited comparison site.

*Source: www.greenvehicleguide.gov.au

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