Welcome Spring By Going Green: A Round Up Of Electric Cars Around $30,000

Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf has certainly made a mark in the EV market. With a relatively low base price of $30,875, the mid-range electric enters 2018 with an updated look that is more conventional than its previous bulbous styling. Running a permanent-magnet synchronous AC motor producing 147 hp, 236 lb-ft from its 40.0-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, the Leaf gets an EPA combined rating of 112 miles per gallon equivalent. With a range of 150 miles, Nissan’s electric sedan sits near the top of the mid-range EVs, but lags behind the Bolt and Tesla’s Model 3. Ultimately, for the relatively low price, especially combined with current government incentives, the Leaf is an affordable electric with enough range to get most eco-conscious people from A to B without a carbon trace.

Up next is an e-vehicle is as small as its carbon footprint.

Smart Fortwo Electric Drive

The mini Mercedes has gone electric. The Smart ForTwo has done away with gas power in exchange for an 80-horsepower electric motor with a single-speed transmission. The Cabrio model features a convertible top so you can enjoy the air you’re not polluting. For afternoon trips, the Smart ForTwo can charge from 0 to 100 percent in three hours on a 240v charger, which is handy since the micro-car also has a micro-range of just sixty-three miles. Starting at just $28,750, the ForTwo is an affordable alternative for those who live and work in the city. With an EPA equivalent city economy of 134 mpg, the new Smart car is a eco-friendly choice for short range commuters.

Coming up: an electric vehicle with a whole lot of soul.