Electric car sales are experiencing significant growth in the United Kingdom, driven by escalating petrol prices and a continuous influx of new models designed to meet diverse driver needs. More than 2.1 million electric vehicles (EVs) are now registered on British roads.

Buyers have an expanding array of choices, with over 160 new electric models available. These vehicles offer increasingly competitive range capabilities; the average EV range has increased from 235 miles in 2024 to 300 miles currently. Government incentives, such as the Electric Car Grant which offers up to £3,750 off qualifying new EVs, have aided over 140,000 drivers in reducing their purchase costs.

With over 50 new EV models slated for launch or sale in the UK this year, selecting the most suitable vehicle can be challenging. To assist consumers, a review of more than 80 popular EV models has been conducted, covering thousands of miles to identify top contenders across various categories.

Family Transportation

The Hyundai Kona Electric, first introduced to the UK in 2018, remains a strong option for families. The current iteration is a more advanced model, retaining the practicality that contributed to its initial success. It comfortably seats five, features a spacious rear bench, and offers a 466-litre boot capacity along with a 27-litre frunk. Its interior is equipped with a 24.6-inch panoramic display, and it provides a smooth, comfortable driving experience with an efficient range of 319 miles.

Seven-Seater Option

For larger families, the Kia EV9 stands out as one of the largest EVs on the market, exceeding five meters in length. This model can accommodate seven adults comfortably, with positive feedback from passengers during a recent 250-mile round trip. The interior incorporates sustainable materials, including plant-fiber headrests and cabin materials derived from corn extract, sugar cane, sawdust, and ocean waste. It offers substantial storage, with an 828-litre boot when the third row is folded. The EV9 boasts a range of up to 349 miles and can charge to add over 150 miles of range in just 15 minutes.

Budget-Friendly Choice

The Honda Super-N is presented as an affordable, retro-inspired EV. Following the less commercially successful Honda-e, the Super-N maintains a similar aesthetic at a lower price point, starting at £18,995. This compact vehicle, measuring under 3.6 meters long, offers a characterful driving experience. Its 'boost' button increases power output and reduces the 0-62mph time from 14.5 to ten seconds. With four seats and a 199-mile city range, it is positioned as an accessible and fun option.

Extended Range Capability

Scheduled for delivery in August, the Volvo EX60 is expected to have the longest range of any EV on sale in Britain. The P12 AWD variant, equipped with a 117kWh battery, is rated for 503 miles on a single charge. The EX60 supports ultra-fast charging, capable of adding over 200 miles of range in approximately ten minutes, with a 10% to 80% charge taking about 15-18 minutes. Its interior features sustainable materials like wool-blend and Nordico upholstery, creating a serene cabin. The vehicle provides 523 litres of boot space, expandable to 634 litres with the underfloor compartment.

Towing and Performance

The BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport Pro Touring was recognized as the best electric car for towing at the Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Towcar of the Year Awards. Judges highlighted its superb performance for towing, noting that EVs are well-suited for this purpose due to their instant torque, stable low center of gravity, and regenerative braking capabilities. The i5 is described as a luxurious estate car with ample space for five, a 570-litre boot, and advanced technology, including a BMW curved display and a Bowers & Wilkins sound system.

Sporty Roadster

The MG Cyberster revives the brand's roadster heritage for the electric era, with a starting price of £55,245. It is considered a desirable second or third vehicle rather than a primary car. The car offers an emotive driving experience, particularly with the roof down on sunny days. Its handling can be described as 'flighty' at speeds above 75mph, adding to its fun factor. This two-seater EV is noted for its nostalgic and stylish design, especially in the English white with a red hood option.

High-Performance Supercar

For those seeking extreme performance, the Denza Z, a luxury sub-brand of BYD, offers an electric supercar option. The Racing variant can accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 1.96 seconds, reaching a top speed of 217mph. This performance rivals that of established supercars. The Denza Z features BYD’s Flash Charging technology, enabling a charge that provides 236 miles of range in just five minutes. The Racing version is priced at £172,900, with the Coupe and Spider variants available at lower prices and slightly reduced performance figures.