According to Kelley Blue Book, electric vehicle (EV) sales are growing at historic levels: they’ve jumped 72 percent year-over-year to a record 147,799 EVs sold in Q4 2021. With more EVs hitting the market, it might be even harder to decide which one’s right for you! We cover some of the best-selling EVs, what’s coming in 2022, and other factors to consider when going electric.
Check out the top ten best selling EVs currently in the U.S. along with the growth by model year-over-year (YOY), comparing 2021 sales to 2020:
| RANK | EV MAKE & MODEL | 2021 SALES (NUMBER SOLD) | PERCENT GROWTH YOY |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tesla Model Y | 190,393 | 191% |
| 2 | Tesla Model 3 | 121,877 | -1% |
| 3 | Ford Mustang Mach-E | 27,140 | N/A |
| 4 | Chevy Bolt EV/EUV | 24,828 | 20% |
| 5 | Tesla Model X | 22,546 | 206% |
| 6 | Tesla Model S | 17,653 | 74% |
| 7 | VW ID.4 | 16,742 | N/A |
| 8 | Nissan Leaf | 14,239 | 49% |
| 9 | Audi e-tron | 10,921 | 52% |
| 10 | Porsche Taycan | 8,745 | 114% |
Source: Kelley Blue Book’s Q4 2021 Electrified Light-Vehicle Sales Report
Tesla currently dominates the EV market. Sales across its four models— Y, 3, X, and S— represent nearly three-fourths of total 2021 EV sales. For each of the top-selling EVs, we’ll break down some of the key factors to consider if you’re looking to buy an EV:
Image credit: Tesla
MSRP: $64,990
Car type: SUV
Estimated range: 330 miles
Federal EV tax credit: Not eligible
Key selling points: The Tesla Model Y has a five-star safety rating, an all-wheel-drive dual-motor, over-the-air software updates, and autopilot capabilities. You also have access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network (though you do pay to Supercharge) for longer trips.
What to consider: Tesla Model Y owners report some issues in owner forums, such as cosmetic flaws on the car when it was delivered and the lack of responsiveness of Tesla service centers. However, others are adamant Model Y advocates.
Image credit: Tesla
MSRP: $48,490
Car type: Sedan
Estimated range: 358 miles
Federal EV tax credit: Not eligible
Key selling points: Like the Model Y, the Model 3 also has a five-star safety rating, an all-wheel-drive dual-motor, over-the-air software updates, and autopilot capabilities. You’ll also have access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network (though you do pay to Supercharge) for longer trips.
What to consider: Tesla Model 3 owners report some issues in owner forums, such as cosmetic flaws on the car when it was delivered, issues with software updates, and a bad smell coming from the AC (though there are some fixes cited for this one on various car aficionado sites). Tesla service center issues are also something to consider in the buying process.
Image credit: Ford
MSRP: $43,895
Car type: SUV
Estimated range: 260 miles
Federal EV tax credit: Eligible
Key selling points: The Ford Mustang Mach-E has quickly won awards including the 2021 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year™ award for Best Utility Vehicle in its first year of production and Car and Driver Magazine’s inaugural Electrical Vehicle of the Year. Drivers cite the availability of Ford service centers and ease of getting parts as a positive.
What to consider: One of the main downsides cited on the Mustang Mach-E is the lack of “utility” of it. It has a lower ground clearance than most other SUVs and isn’t rated for towing.
Image credit: Chevrolet
MSRP: $31,500
Car type: Hatchback
Estimated range: 260 miles
Federal EV tax credit: Not eligible
Key selling points: The Chevrolet Bolt is one of the most affordable EVs on the market today. Currently, Chevrolet is also offering to cover the installation of a Level 2 charging outlet. (There are some conditions, and you’ll need to use a GM-selected installer, but it’s an excellent way to get the cost of an EV charger covered at your home.)
What to consider: There was a major recall on the Chevy Bolt in 2021 due to a battery defect deemed a potential fire hazard. The recall is still in progress, with software updates via Chevrolet service centers. However, Chevrolet’s website states that this software update is not the final recall remedy, and Bolt owners are supposed to get notified when battery modules are available for replacement.
Image credit: Tesla
MSRP: $120,490
Car type: SUV
Estimated range: 333 miles
Federal EV tax credit: Not eligible
Key selling points: The Tesla Model X is a luxury electric SUV with nice features, including quick acceleration, a large 17’’ main display, panoramic windshield, comfortable cabin with three temperature zones and HEPA filtration, wireless gaming, and 5,000 lbs. of towing capacity.
What to consider: While there are some very nice features, you will pay a much higher price than many other electric SUVs on the market. As with other Tesla models, there are some negative reviews on service.
Image credit: Tesla
MSRP: $104,490
Car type: Sedan
Estimated range: 396 miles
Federal EV tax credit: Not eligible
Key selling points: Like the Model X, the Tesla Model S is a luxury EV with some nice features, including quick acceleration, a large 17’’ main display, rear-seating wireless charging, and a comfortable cabin with three temperature zones and HEPA filtration. The upgraded version, Model S Plaid, is touted as having the quickest acceleration of any vehicle in production if you like driving extra fast.
What to consider: As with the Model X, you get some excellent range, features, luxury, and speed, but you will pay more than other EV models. Also, like other Tesla models, there are conflicting reviews on service.
Image credit: Volkswagen
MSRP: $40,760
Car type: Compact SUV
Estimated range: 260 miles
Federal EV tax credit: Eligible
Key selling points: The Volkswagen (VW) ID.4 has a sleek look, a 10-inch display, glass roof, heated front seats and steering wheel, and wireless charging. If you purchase a 2022 ID.4, you get three years of included 30-minute charging sessions at Electrify America charging stations (fast Level 3 chargers ideal for long trips).
What to consider: One downside to the VW ID.4 that most EVs will give you is there’s no extra cargo room in the frunk (front trunk). Also, some drivers and reviews have commented that the technology is a bit quirky regarding the controls.
Image credit: Nissan
MSRP: $27,400
Car type: Hatchback
Estimated range: 149 miles
Federal EV tax credit: Eligible
Key selling points: Like the Chevy Bolt, the Nissan Leaf is also one of the most affordable EV options available today. It does have some nice technology and safety features, including a virtual composite 360° bird’s-eye view and a driver’s assistance capability to help make highway and traffic driving easier. Nissan is currently offering a $250 EVgo credit to charge at any EVgo charging station throughout the U.S. (you’ll need to check to make sure this offer is available in your area).
What to consider: The range is a bit lower than other options, but for an added cost, there is an upgraded battery that offers 226 miles of range.
Image credit: Audi
MSRP: $65,900
Car type: SUV
Estimated range: 222 miles
Federal EV tax credit: Eligible
Key selling points: The Audi e-tron has a five-star safety rating, a sleek design, driver assistance technology to help avoid accidents, as well as wireless technology with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You’ll also qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit if you buy an e-tron.
What to consider: It’s a bit more expensive than some of the other options out there with comparable range, though Audi as a brand is known for their focus on design, comfort, and a solid service experience.
Image credit: Porsche
MSRP: $82,700
Car type: Sedan
Estimated range: 200 miles
Federal EV tax credit: Eligible
Key selling points: Another luxury EV option, the Porsche Taycan offers some top-notch technology and safety features such as lane and parking assist, a HomeLink programmable garage door opener, a 16.8-inch curved display, and wireless Apple CarPlay. You also qualify for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit if you buy a Taycan.
What to consider: Adding range and performance gets you over $100,000 (or beyond), so it quickly becomes more expensive than other similar options. Reliability has also been called into question by Consumer Reports and other trusted industry reviewers.
This year marks a year of many new EV models planned across many different companies, providing even more options if you’re looking to purchase an EV this year. Here are a few EVs that are just out in 2022 or rolling out soon:
Image credit: Audi, Audi e-tron GT
Audi is expanding its e-tron line with a few new 2022 EV models, including:
Audi’s new EVs in 2022 provide more options ranging from a more affordable version (Q4) to high-end (GT and GT quattro). As you move up in price, you essentially get enhanced speed, acceleration, technology, and features. The expanded e-tron line offers the same design and luxury Audi is known for, though some automotive reviewers critique them a bit for a shorter range compared to similarly priced models. All Audi e-tron EVs are also eligible for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit.
Image credit: BMW, BMW iX
BMW is expanding its EV offerings with two new 2022 EV models, including:
BMW previously released its i3 and i8 EVs with futuristic designs that didn’t seem to capture the market. In 2021, the BMW i3 dropped 13 percent in sales over the previous year to only 1,476 models sold. These newer EV models showcase a look more similar to other non-EV BMWs with a solid range (301 miles for the i4 and 324 miles for the iX). BMW is also currently offering two years of complimentary charging at Electrify America charging stations throughout the U.S. All BMW EVs are eligible for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit.
Image credit: Fisker
Fisker Ocean is currently accepting reservations for its EV at a base price of $37,499 with a 250-mile range, expected to be available in late 2022.
Fisker has been around for a while, but after going bankrupt in 2013 and getting acquired in 2014, they are now planning two new models: the Ocean in late 2022 and the Fisker Pear, which was just announced in February 2022 (slated for 2023). You can upgrade to 350 miles of range with the One or Extreme models. The Fisker Ocean is the first mass-market EV to tout a solar roof, which they say will be able to produce enough energy to go up to 1,500 miles per year. Reservations are available with a $250 deposit. The Fisker Ocean is eligible for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit.
Image credit: Ford
Ford announced that the production of its 2022 F-150 Lightning pickup truck will begin spring of 2022 at a starting MSRP of $39,974 with 230 miles of range. There is also an upgraded 300-mile range option. The Ford F-150 Lightning offers 4×4 capabilities, a 15.5-inch portrait touchscreen, quick acceleration, and at least 2,000 pounds of towing capacity (up to 10,000 with added options).
Some new EV models like the F-150 Lightning also promote a new feature called bidirectional charging, which means you can direct the charge from your EV battery to power other things. This requires some additional technology to ensure it’s safe and effective, but ultimately could mean with the right equipment and electrical setup, your EV could offer backup power to your home during an outage. In their January 2022 announcement, Ford noted they plan to nearly double production capacity to 150,000 vehicles per year based on high demand.
Image credit: Hyundai, Hyundai Ioniq 5
Hyundai released the Hyundai Ionic Electric in 2021 and this slated to add two new EV models in 2022:
Hyundai announced two electric SUVs for 2022, adding to their existing Ionic Electric hatchback. The Kona Electric offers a range of 258 miles, and the Ioniq 5 range starts at 220 miles (though there’s an upgraded version offering 303 miles of range). Hyundai is known for their reliability and solid warranties. If you purchase a Hyundai Kona or Ioniq 5, you also get two years of unlimited 30-minute complimentary charging sessions at Electrify America charging stations. All Hyundai EVs are also eligible for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit.
Image credit: Rivian
Rivian, a newer manufacturer that just went public in 2021, is adding another model to join its existing R1T pickup truck: an SUV, the R1S. The Rivian R1S has already begun deliveries, though the only ones to date are Rivian employees. Current R1S reservation holders should start getting their vehicles in mid-2022. The Rivian R1S has an MSRP of $72,500 with 260 miles of range. It also has some nice technology and features such as a panoramic roof, LTE and Wi-Fi connectivity, over-the-air software updates, three-row seating for up to seven passengers, all-wheel drive, a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, and a wading depth of over three feet for off-roaders.
Rivian has recently come under criticism for its price hike announcement citing increased production costs and supply issues, which initially impacted current reservation holders as well. (They did send a communication to customers reversing the price increase shortly after that initial announcement, honoring the original price for existing reservations.) The Rivian EVs are currently eligible for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit.
EV announcements are hitting an all-time high, with several more models expected in 2023, including the Cadillac Lyriq, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Chevrolet Equinox EV, Chevrolet Silverado EV, and the Polestar 3 (another newer brand in the EV market). Also, expect to see more options coming in all shapes and sizes – including trucks, SUVs, and sports cars. Honda also announced it’ll have its first all-electric vehicle in 2024, the Honda Prologue, which will likely be a compact or mid-size SUV.
Short answer? It depends! Just as with any car purchase, there are several factors you’ll want to consider when buying an EV including price, range, reliability, performance, warranty, and service. Established car manufacturers may offer more confidence and stability, whereas newer companies and models often have more innovative technology and features.
New companies also lack the tenure and reputation of some more established EV manufacturers and may not have the service infrastructure built out (which translates to having a service center near you if something goes wrong). So, you’ll want to weigh the pros and cons of each EV brand and model.
According to the J.D. Power 2022 U.S. Electric Vehicle Experience (EVX) Ownership Study released in January 2022, EV range is a key purchase factor, cited by over 86 percent of EV owners. When it comes to satisfaction with specific EVs, the J.D. Power study cites these as having above-average owner satisfaction:
