Top 5 EVs with the longest range for every budget

“But how far can I actually go?”, is a question still asked by many before buying an EV. Range is a crucial factor in the electric vehicle conversation, as drivers seek the same level of freedom and convenience they are accustomed to with combustion engines - without the need for frequent pit stops at charging stations.

Thanks to the advancement in technology, the days when electric cars were solely seen as urban-centric vehicles, limited by ranges are long gone. The new generation of electric cars has shattered the range expectancy by easily surpassing not only the 300-kilometer mark but also the 500-kilometer mark.

In this blog, we’ll be presenting the top 5 EVs with the longest range available in Germany divided among three price classes. No matter your budget, our aim is for this article to serve as a guide, helping you find an EV with which you can embark on long journeys with confidence, knowing that recharging stops will be minimal.*

‍*It's important to note that real-world ranges may vary due to external factors like temperature and driving style.

1. Luxury: 100,000€ and above

In the category, we present two remarkable EVs that can only be described as luxury on wheels. While these cars come with a higher price tag, they cater to those individuals who demand the very best and are willing to invest in the pinnacle of electric vehicle excellence.

a. Lucid Air Dream Edition R - range up to 790 km

Taking the top spot for electric vehicles with the longest range in the luxury category is the Lucid Air series from American manufacturer Lucid Motors. Their splendid sedan, the Lucid Air Dream Edition, available in Grand Touring, Performance and Range versions, features a powerful 1,111 horsepower motor that accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3 seconds. But that’s not all - the Lucid Air series truly shines when it comes to range, with all variants boasting an astonishing distance of up to 790 kilometers on a single charge.

Besides its range, it also leads the way in fast charging capabilities. With a charging power of up to 350 kW, it can add 500 kilometers of range in just 20 minutes. This ensures you can quickly recharge and get back on the road without lengthy delays. 

While this sedan is truly a marvel when it comes to engineering, it also comes at a premium price. Starting at €218,000, this car is targeted at those seeking the pinnacle of electric vehicle performance and sophistication. If range is a top priority for you, there is simply no better option than the Lucid Air. Whether you opt for the Dream Edition R, Grand Touring, or Edition P, the Lucid Air offers a compelling choice for enthusiasts of luxury electric vehicles.

b. Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+: range up to 730 km

Making its mark next in the Luxury category is the Mercedes-Benz EQS series, which signifies a significant step for the German automaker in challenging Tesla's dominance in EV range. With its EQS 450+ configuration, Mercedes-Benz offers an impressive range of 730 kilometers, surpassing the best Tesla model by a notable 100 kilometers. Imagine the convenience of traveling from Hamburg to Munich on a single charge! 

The EQS line brings together luxury with performance, featuring a spacious interior with a 3.21-meter wheelbase, a towing capacity of 750 kilograms, and a powerful 523 horsepower motor capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds. The EQS 450+ model, equipped with a large 108 kWh battery, allows for an 80% charge in just over half an hour with a compatible charger. 

Considering the luxury and remarkable range it offers, it comes as no surprise that the EQS series comes with a premium price tag, starting at €109,551. However, for those seeking a long-range electric driving experience with advanced features and a comfortable interior, the EQS series presents a solution like no other.

2. Medium-End: 40,000€ to 100,000€

In the medium-end category, we present an EV that strikes a balance between range and affordability. Designed to cater to individuals with a broader budget range, this model is best suited for those who are seeking a combination of practicality and long-range capabilities.

a. Hyundai IONIQ 6: range up to 575 km

The EV earning the best spot in the Medium-End range according to Cariqa is the Hyundai Ioniq 6, a stylish electric sedan that offers a range of almost 575 km on a single charge. With its distinctive swept-back shape, the sedan offers variants in different configurations, including rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, allowing drivers to prioritize range, price, and performance based on their preferences. 

The IONIQ 6 easily stands out among its competitors when it comes to its power consumption. With a battery capacity of 74kWh, the power consumption is merely 14.9 kWh per 100 kilometers. Additionally, thanks to its 800-volt charging technology, the IONIQ 6 can support charging speeds of up to 350 kW, surpassing the capabilities of many other electric models in the market. Another notable feature is its bidirectional charging capability, allowing the Ioniq 6 to participate in vehicle-to-grid systems. For all this, you can get this car for a starting price of 43,900€ in Germany, which is amazing, given the perks this car offers.

3. Value Driven: less than 40,000€

In the value driven category, we introduce two EVs for individuals who prioritize both budget and sustainability. By offering a remarkable range without compromising on quality, these electric vehicles represent a significant step towards a future where sustainable transportation is accessible to all.

a. Nissan Leaf: range up to 390 km

We kick off the value-driven category with the Nissan Leaf which is an excellent choice for anyone looking to venture into the world of electric vehicles. When it comes to range, the Nissan Leaf offers two battery options. The standard model, equipped with a 148bhp electric motor and a 39kWh battery pack, can manage up to 275 kilometers between charges. On the other hand, the Leaf e+ model, featuring a 214bhp motor and a larger 59kWh battery pack, offers an extended range of 390 kilometers.

Charging the Leaf is also very convenient and straightforward. With a 7kWh home charger, it takes around 6.5 hours to charge from empty to full. On the go, utilizing a 50kW rapid charger will get you from 20% to 80% charge in 60 minutes for the standard model and 90 minutes for the e+ version. 

Adding to that, the Nissan Leaf received a full five star Euro NCAP rating, scoring an impressive 93% for adult occupant safety and 86% for child occupants. Available at a starting price of 35,900€, Nissan Leaf impresses in various aspects. It brings together ease of driving, comfort, safety and a decent range that will surely appeal to a lot of readers.

b. Hyundai Kona Electric: range up to 460 km

The second car in this category is the versatile Hyundai Kona. Integrating affordability and practicality in one car, the Hyundai Kona exudes a futuristic cyborg-like appearance, solidifying its place in the compact SUV segment. 

Available in two variants, the base Kona Electric uses a 39kWh battery pack which provides a range of 290 kilometers on a single charge. On the other hand, the upgraded battery variant uses a 64kWh battery that bumps up the range to 460 kilometers. 

In addition to its value-driven appeal, Hyundai Kona also features innovative features like bidirectional charging and regenerative braking system, contributing to its overall efficiency. Available at a starting price of 34,850€, the Hyundai Kona Electric is here to give you the confidence and peace of mind you've been craving in an electric car.

Conclusion

The world of electric vehicles is rapidly evolving, and manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of range capabilities. As the EV industry continues to evolve, we can expect even more exciting developments in range capabilities and the overall driving experience in the near future. For now, if you're considering making the switch to electric, rest assured that these five EVs represent the best of the best in terms of range based on your price range. While switching to your next EV, make sure to download Cariqa and enjoy a stress-free EV charging, battery monitoring and routing in one app.

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