It’s undeniable: electric vehicles have become hugely popular over recent years. Not only has the technology surrounding electric cars improved rapidly, allowing for the creation of attractive new models, but people are more concerned about the environmental impact of driving than ever. It’s not only attitudes that have changed — it was also recently announced that the law banning the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles would be brought forward and come into action in 2035. The implementation of this law will inevitably see an even bigger increase in electric car sales.
Not only have they increased in popularity, but the entire perception of the electric car has evolved over the years. Originally, small and sporty cars were the only designs you would associate with electric vehicles. This image was embodied by Tesla’s original electric car design: the Roadster, which rocketed onto the road in 2008. This impressive vehicle was the first to use lithium-ion battery cells, and the first to travel 200 miles per charge. Since then, electric cars have been made in all shapes and sizes, from smart cars to SUVs.
This first electric SUV was also the work of Tesla. The Tesla Model X is considered a trailblazer by many but has since been faced with fierce opposition. In 2020, we have a great variety of electric SUVs to choose from. Last year, the Mitsubishi Outlander was the most popular electric SUV by fleet size (41,265), but many other models were hot on its tail!
Here in the UK, we’ve had a historic love affair with SUVs. Unlike other European cities like Italy who favour smaller models, we tend to prefer larger vehicles here in the UK. After the post-Brexit legislation comes into play however, we will have to work harder to minimise our carbon emissions. Therefore, electric SUVs are set to be the car of the future! So, if you’re struggling to choose between all of the exciting options, here’s the very best pick of electric SUVs for 2020.
The fashionable: Mercedes-Benz EQC
If you’re searching for a suave and stylish vehicle, look no further than the Mercedes-Benz EQC. Anyone who appreciated the luxurious quality of Mercedes (who have always offered an impressive array of luxury vehicles, such as the Mercedes GLC) will not be disappointed by this design. It focuses on style as well as efficiency, taking the competition by storm.
One main benefit of this option is comfort. This car offers an extremely smooth drive and is equipped for every eventuality. The battery charge time is 41 hours at 220V, or 0.67 hours at 440V.
The glamorous: Audi E-Tron
If you’re really looking to make a big investment, splash out on a luxurious Audi E-Tron. This design ticks all the boxes and it’s bound to impress you. It also features extra-special touches such as a sleek interior and top of the range touch-screen infotainment system.
This vehicle’s features include a ten-minute charge time (a full charge will allow you to drive for 204 miles) and it is equipped for light off-roading.
The budget-friendly: Hyundai Kona EV
If you’re on the market for an affordable electric SUV which won’t break the bank, the Hyundai Kona EV is a fantastic option. This model can drive up to 258 miles when fully charged and get from 0-60 mph in an impressive 6.4 seconds. For the price you pay, this is an enviable vehicle!
Need more convincing? This car won 2019 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year!
The best of both worlds: BMW X5 xDrive45e
This impressive hybrid is ideal if you’re not ready to make the full switch to electric quite yet. Boasting features such as two extra cylinders and a 24kWh battery capacity, this vehicle offers an economical and environmentally friendly drive. For anyone not ready to take the full plunge, the BMW X5 xDrive45e is the perfect hybrid option.
One fabulous feature of the BMW X5 xDrive45e is the incredible smooth switch over from electric to hybrid — as smooth as a simple gear change! Since its upgrade from the earlier four-cylinder design, this model has rocketed in popularity.
Thanks to all of these innovative designs, there’s never been a better time to make the switch to electric. What’s more, the post-Brexit legislation and the introduction of new Low Emission Zone (LEZ) standards will necessitate the purchase of an electric car soon enough — so why not get ahead of the crowd with one of the best models on the market?
Sources
https://www.digitaltrends.com/cars/best-electric-suvs/
https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-hybrid-suvs-2020/n20392
https://www.statista.com/statistics/965626/uk-leading-passenger-electric-vehicle-models/
https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/mercedes-benz/eqc
https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/mercedes-benz/eqc/driving
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/bmw/x5/first-drives/bmw-x5-xdrive45e-m-sport-2020-uk-review