Electric vehicles are climbing in popularity. In fact, many automakers plan to shift toward primarily electric lineups over the next decade in response to rising demand and climate concerns.
For more than a decade, manufacturers such as Nissan and Chevrolet have sold budget-friendly EVs like the Nissan Leaf and Chevy Spark EV, though their gasoline-powered subcompact and compact cousins were typically less costly.
That remains true today — especially with brands like Tesla offering models such as the Tesla Model S that start in the six-figure range — but the price difference between gas cars and electric models has narrowed considerably.
Federal tax credits can even make an electric vehicle less expensive than a comparable gasoline car.
At the same time, automakers have made major gains addressing range anxiety. Most of the electric cars listed below can travel at least 200 miles on a single charge.
So what is the cheapest electric vehicle, and how do tax incentives affect the final cost? Read on for our list of the most affordable electric cars.
Here Are the 10 Most Affordable Electric Cars for 2025:
10 Cheapest Electric Cars in 2025
We compiled the most budget-friendly electric cars in the U.S., based solely on their MSRP (manufacturer’s suggested retail price).
Some new EVs may qualify for a $7,500 tax credit, but the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 changed the rules — and they will continue to tighten in coming years. In 2024, new EVs qualified for:
- A $3,750 credit if at least 60% of the battery components were produced in North America.
- A $3,750 credit if at least 50% of the critical minerals for the battery were extracted or processed in the U.S. (or in a country with a free-trade agreement with the U.S.); alternatively, the IRS would allow the credit if the minerals were sourced from recycled material in North America.
- The full $7,500 credit if both conditions were satisfied.
The short version: some new EVs may get the full electric car tax credit, others may qualify for a partial amount, and some may not qualify at all — and these requirements are likely to become stricter in 2025 and beyond. Once you narrow your list of affordable EVs, research the battery and mineral sourcing for each model.
Without further ado, here are the 10 most affordable electric cars of 2025:
1. 2025 Nissan Leaf
Starting MSRP: $28,140
EPA-estimated range: 149 to 212 miles
The Nissan Leaf was one of the first mass-market electric vehicles, debuting in 2010. While it hasn’t always been the absolute cheapest EV, it’s consistently been among the most affordable options. For 2025, the Leaf starts below $30,000 (though it is not currently eligible for federal tax credits).
At $28,140, the base Leaf is a compact hatchback that offers 121 MPGe and a 149-mile range. If you want the extended 212-mile range, opt for the Leaf SV Plus with the larger battery; the Leaf S Plus starts at $36,190.
The Leaf seats five, though the rear bench is a bit tight for adult passengers. Up front, occupants get modern convenience features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Don’t be fooled by its economy status: the Leaf comes standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, which includes active safety systems such as Lane Departure Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection.
2. 2024 MINI Cooper SE Electric Hardtop 2 Door
Starting MSRP: $30,900
EPA-estimated range: 114 miles
If you’re attracted to the classic Mini aesthetic, the SE Electric delivers that charm with its own electric personality (check out those wheels). Yet the hardtop’s range is modest: at 114 miles per charge, this model has the shortest range among the 10 most affordable EVs here. It’s the only car on our list that doesn’t approach 200 miles on a single charge.
3. 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric
Starting MSRP: $32,875
EPA-estimated range: 261 miles
The 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric has some of the boldest styling among the vehicles on this list — the wheel design stands out, and base trims even offer two-tone paint. Inside, wireless connectivity and comfortable seating make it appealing.
With a 261-mile range across all trims, the Kona Electric is a strong choice for longer trips; Level 3 DC fast charging takes roughly 43 minutes depending on the charging equipment. For those comparing prices, the Kona Electric’s MSRP dropped by $675 for 2025.
4. 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV
Starting MSRP: $33,600
EPA-estimated range: 319 miles
Previously, the Chevrolet Bolt was GM’s entry-level EV, but it has been discontinued. The Equinox EV is a spacious SUV with an impressive range and family-friendly features. Due to changes in federal EV tax credit rules, the Chevrolet Equinox EV may once again be eligible for incentives (Chevy had previously been excluded after exceeding the former 200,000-sales threshold).
That could make the 2025 Equinox EV even more affordable after credits. If you step up to the 2025 Equinox EV RS (starting at $43,400), you’ll receive leather-appointed seats and additional safety features.
The Equinox EV seats five but can feel a bit snug in the rear. Still, it’s a solid pick: standard safety tech, wireless phone integration, a 0-to-60 time of about 8.5 seconds, and Chevy covers the cost of a home charging install for buyers.
5. 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 6
Starting MSRP: $37,750
EPA-estimated range: 240 miles
The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 6 is an EV to watch. It earned multiple World Car of the Year awards and was named a top pick by Cars.com. The upper trim can deliver up to 342 miles of range, but that version costs about $52,600 — substantially higher than the $37,750 base price. Currently, the IONIQ 6 doesn’t qualify for the federal tax credit, though some dealerships may offer incentives at the point of sale.
The base IONIQ 6 still delivers an impressive 240 miles of range, rides on sporty 18-inch alloys and supports ultra-fast charging. Higher trims add amenities like a Blind-Spot View Monitor, a panoramic vision roof and a Premium Head-Up Display with augmented reality.
6. 2025 Kia Niro EV
Starting MSRP: $39,600
EPA-estimated range: 253 miles
There are plenty of stylish crossovers, but the electrified Kia Niro EV stands out with a 253-mile range and appealing value. Its starting MSRP has held steady since 2023.
Despite a single electric motor, the Niro EV produces 201 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0–60 mph in about 7.8 seconds. Standard driver-assist tech, a premium audio system and DC fast charging — which can add over 200 miles of range in roughly 45 minutes — round out its strengths.
While the Niro EV is not eligible for the tax credit as of 2025, some dealers are offering an equivalent $7,500 lease incentive to qualified lessees.
7. 2024 Volkswagen ID.4
Starting MSRP: $39,735
EPA-estimated range: 291 miles
In prior years, the Volkswagen ID.4 sat near the bottom of our affordability rankings. A notable price cut (from more than $41,000) moved it up the list. Range also improved: the 2024 ID.4 delivers an EPA-estimated 291 miles, up from 275 the previous year.
Like many EVs, demand at times outpaced supply, and the ID.4 occasionally had waiting lists that stretched multiple months from order to delivery.
8. Tesla Model 3 Performance
Starting MSRP: $42,490
EPA-estimated range: 303 miles
The Tesla Model 3 Performance brings high-speed electrification to a relatively accessible price bracket. The latest Model 3 tops out at around 163 mph and can sprint from 0–60 in roughly 2.9 seconds, depending on configuration.
It is currently eligible for the full federal tax credit. Keep in mind that many premium Tesla features are add-ons — for example, Tesla’s Full Self-Driving package carries a substantial extra fee.
9. 2025 Volvo EX30
Starting MSRP: $44,900
EPA-estimated range: 253 miles
Although Volvo entered the EV market more recently, the 2025 EX30 has made an impression. The EX30’s 253-mile range is modest compared with some rivals, but it charges quickly — a fast charge can take about 26 minutes — and the quick variant reaches 0–60 mph in roughly 3.4 seconds.
The EX30 is available in a playful moss yellow, alongside standard white, black and gray, and it includes Google integration on its center display. Because production is not U.S.-based, the EX30 does not qualify for federal tax credits, though dealers may offer purchase incentives.
10. 2025 MINI Cooper Countryman SE ALL4
Starting MSRP: $45,200
EPA-estimated range: 212 miles
If the smaller Mini Cooper SE isn’t your style but you still want a Mini, the Countryman SE ALL4 delivers more space, more doors and greater range. It carries a bigger price tag but remains one of the more affordably positioned electric crossovers in the segment.
A Note on the Most Affordable EVs of 2025
Our list of the 10 cheapest electric cars for 2025 includes both 2024 and 2025 model-year vehicles, since automakers release 2025 models at different times across roughly an 18-month span. Early in 2025, you may find better deals on dealer lots by hunting for remaining 2024 inventory as the 2025 models arrive.
Also keep in mind that some of the models listed may have limited availability and could only be sold in select states.
How Electric Car Tax Credits Work
In 2010, the federal government introduced a tax credit program that gave buyers up to $7,500 for purchasing new electric vehicles. The intent was to encourage adoption by offsetting the primary concerns of buyers: price and range.
For example, a $50,000 EV with a $7,500 credit effectively reduced the buyer’s tax liability by that amount, making the purchase feel like a $42,500 vehicle after the credit.
Buyers still had to pay (or finance) the full purchase price up front, but when filing taxes they could claim the one-time credit on their return.
Earlier federal rules also placed a cap on the number of qualifying vehicles per automaker (200,000) before credits phased out. The Inflation Reduction Act removed that cap but introduced many additional and sometimes confusing qualifying conditions, some of which took effect in 2023.
Eligibility now depends on factors such as your adjusted gross income (which must fall below certain thresholds based on filing status) and specifics about where battery materials and critical minerals are sourced (for example, from the U.S. or qualifying free-trade partners).
Monitor tax credit updates as you plan to buy a new EV. The IRS implemented stricter rules in April 2024 and more changes are likely at the start of 2025.
Military Discounts on Electric Cars
Many manufacturers provide military discounts across their lineups, including EVs, making it simpler for active-duty service members, veterans and their families to access affordable electric vehicles.
Programs differ but commonly include a $500 rebate or bonus cash toward a purchase.
If you’re in the military and shopping for an EV, consider these manufacturer military programs:
- GM Military Discount
- Ford Military Appreciation Program
- Nissan Military Program
- Mazda Military Appreciation Bonus Cash
- Hyundai Military Program
- BMW Military Incentive
- Mercedes-Benz Military Program
- Volkswagen Military Bonus
How Much Does It Cost to Own an Electric Car?
On sticker price alone, new electric vehicles often cost roughly $10,000 more than their gasoline counterparts. But that’s a narrow comparison. A fuller view accounts for total ownership costs — maintenance, insurance, charging, and federal tax incentives.
When estimating what you’ll spend (and save) with an electric car, take these factors into account:
Federal Tax Credits
Some EVs may be eligible for up to $7,500 in federal tax credits, though the Inflation Reduction Act’s newer restrictions make qualification more complex.
Maintenance Costs
Electric cars typically cost less to maintain because they don’t require oil changes or many routine services. Over a year, you could save hundreds or even thousands on routine upkeep.
However, when EVs need significant repairs — especially battery replacement — costs can be steep. A battery swap can run several thousand dollars and in some cases exceed $20,000. Fortunately, most new EVs come with extended battery warranties that may cover the first replacement depending on timing.
Insurance Costs
Since EV repairs can be pricier, insurance premiums for electric cars tend to be higher. Data from insurers like ValuePenguin suggest EV policies can cost about 25% more than comparable gasoline cars.
Charging Costs
Gasoline costs add up quickly; charging at home is generally far cheaper than filling a tank. Your monthly electric bill will increase, but the expense is usually modest compared with typical fuel costs.
Factor in the cost to install a home charging station when evaluating a new or used EV purchase. Depending on your electrical setup, expect to spend roughly $1,000 to $2,000 for an at-home charger — although some manufacturers (for example, Chevy) may cover that expense for buyers.
For more options on economical electric cars and recommendations on value, check our roundup of best used electric cars.
