Top Picks: Small Electric Cars to Drive for in 2024 and 2025

In Europe, people like small electric cars more than in North America. Still, some of these small EVs are driven on roads in the United States

 

Which small electric cars are the best in 2024 and 2025? Some of you might be surprised to learn that the United States has few small electric vehicles. Because of this, we need to look further afield and find a few models that can handle the notoriously narrow roads in Europe.

Most small electric cars aren’t very fast and are only good for short trips or going around town. Some are different, like the Tesla Model 3, which is one of the few small electric premium cars and one of the few small electric cars with a good range. Compared to bigger, more powerful EVs on the road, most feel slow. But that doesn’t mean they can’t be fun to drive around town!

 

Nissan Leaf: A Classic Continues With Good Driving Manners

The Nissan Leaf is one of the best small electric cars in the world, and it sells just as well as Teslas. If you keep the Leaf Plus trim level charged, you can drive 212 miles on a single charge. It can go 149 miles on a charge, which should be enough for most people who live in cities.

Advantages: It’s the Least Expensive Brand-new Electric Car in the USA

Eligible for the Federal EV Tax Credit The costs of owning an award-winning EV

Cons

Poor materials for the cabin

Not very far to drive

You can choose from only two styles.

Some new, bigger gas-powered cars are more expensive than some small electric cars. Most EVs cost more than $60,000, but the Nissan Leaf, which costs less than $30,000, may be worth it for most drivers.

 

BYD Dolphin: An Unknown Game-Changer From China

Let’s move on from small electric cars you may already know about and look at the BYD Dolphin. The BYD Seal is the smaller brother of the BYD Dolphin. The Dolphin is another ocean-themed compact SUV from BYD. The lighting system in this BYD car is made to move like dolphins breaking the water in the ocean. It’s a whole new level of style and design.

Pros: Unique and extensive design

Range of 265 miles

Good enough performance Cons

Dealing with low grades

There is no user interface.

It is hard, if not impossible, to bring into the US.

Even though the BYD Dolphin is small and not very well known in the United States, it performs pretty well for its class. When you compare it to the next model on this list, the Dolphin can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in seven seconds. That may seem slow, but it’s actually on par with many other small electric vehicles on the market.

 

Tesla Model 3: More Range And Premium Qualities Than You’d Expect

It’s not really a small car, but it’s still a “compact.” The longest range is found in the Tesla Model 3, which can go 341 miles on electric power alone in the Long Range trim. This small Tesla is a great option to the more expensive Model S. It’s also a great choice for some people who want to buy their first electric car.

Pros: Great Range for Driving

Sporty Driving and Quick Acceleration

Simple and Beautiful Cabin Design

A Firm Ride

Back Seats that Are Too Close Together

Using Touchscreen Tools too much