Introduction


Over the past decade, electric vehicles have gone from niche products with extremely limited range and high prices to practical affordable options for mainstream buyers. While early EVs like the Nissan Leaf and BMW i3 had ranges under 100 miles and started around $30,000, recent models can exceed 300 miles per charge and come in at under $25,000 - putting them on par with gasoline-powered cars. 


Several factors are driving this shift to affordable EVs. Battery costs have declined steadily, allowing automakers to pack more range into cheaper vehicles. Governments around the world are implementing stricter emissions regulations and offering purchase incentives to encourage EV adoption. Charging infrastructure is becoming more widespread. And across the industry, economies of scale are bringing down the manufacturing costs of EVs.


With these trends accelerating, 2024 is shaping up to be a breakout year for affordable electric cars. Multiple automakers are planning to launch new models that push the envelope of pricing and range. For budget-minded buyers who want an EV with over 200 miles of range for under $30,000, the options are expanding rapidly. This article will highlight some of the most promising affordable EVs slated to hit the market in 2024. From entry-level models to small crossovers, these revolutionary rides make emissions-free driving attainable for the masses.


Tesla Model 2 


The Tesla Model 2 is one of the most anticipated affordable electric vehicles set to launch in 2024. As Tesla's entry-level model, the Model 2 will aim to bring Tesla quality and features to a more accessible price point. 


Specs


Details are limited since the Model 2 is still under development, but expectations are that it will have:


  • Range: 250 - 300 miles
  • 0-60 mph time: 5 seconds 
  • Top speed: 130 mph
  • Battery size: 60 kWh


Pricing


Tesla has hinted the Model 2 will start around $25,000 in the US, making it their most affordable option yet. With federal tax credits, pricing could dip to around $20,000.


Release Date


Tesla plans to unveil the Model 2 in 2023 and begin deliveries in 2024. This timeline lines up with the opening of Tesla's factories in Austin, Texas and Berlin, Germany which will manufacture the Model 2. 


As Tesla's mass-market model, the Model 2 has the potential to take electric vehicle adoption mainstream. Its pricing and range should make EVs accessible to a much broader audience. Excitement is already building for the Model 2's launch in 2024 as one of the most affordable and revolutionary electric cars coming to market.


Chevy Bolt 


The Chevy Bolt has seen a significant price drop since its initial release, making it one of the most affordable EVs on the market. For 2024, Chevy has announced the base model Bolt will start at just $26,595, more than $5,000 less than the 2023 model. 


In addition to the lower price, the 2024 Bolt will come with several new standard features that improve the overall driving experience. Key updates include:


  • Larger touchscreen display with improved EV range monitoring and route planning tools
  • Faster charging capability - up to 100kW, enabling quicker charging sessions on road trips
  • Refreshed exterior design with new front and rear fascias  
  • Additional standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist
  • Next-generation comfort features like ventilated front seats and heated steering wheel


With 250+ miles of range on a full charge, DC fast charging capability, and an estimated 0-60 mph time of under 7 seconds, the new 2024 Chevy Bolt delivers an unparalleled blend of affordability and performance. The lower price point and upgraded tech make the Bolt an even more compelling option as an affordable, mainstream EV. For budget-conscious buyers looking to go electric without compromise, the 2024 Chevy Bolt hits a sweet spot.


Entry-level EV for Volkswagen 


The Volkswagen ID.2 will be Volkswagen's most affordable EV yet, with a starting price under $25,000. As an entry-level model, the ID.2 makes electric mobility attainable for more consumers by offering an attractive combination of price, range, and features.


The ID.2 will be built on Volkswagen's dedicated MEB electric platform, allowing for maximization of interior space despite the car's compact exterior dimensions. Volkswagen is targeting a range of 250 miles from the ID.2's battery pack. While not best-in-class, a 250 mile range should satisfy the daily driving needs of most owners. 


In terms of styling, the ID.2 will take cues from the larger ID.3 and ID.4 models but in a more diminutive package sized similarly to the VW Polo. A clean, futuristic design aesthetic will differentiate the ID.2 from combustion-engined VW models. 


Volkswagen aims to pack the ID.2 with the latest tech features to make it appealing to younger, first-time EV buyers. Expect a modern infotainment system with smartphone integration, driver assistance systems like lane keeping assist, and perhaps even some semi-autonomous driving capability via further development of Volkswagen's Travel Assist system.


Overall, the ID.2 will extend Volkswagen's ID electric sub-brand downmarket while still providing the core strengths of other ID models - long range, smart packaging, and must-have technology. For mainstream buyers seeking an affordable route into electric vehicle ownership, the Volkswagen ID.2 will be one to watch.


Hyundai Ioniq 3


The Hyundai Ioniq 3 is one of the most anticipated affordable electric vehicles coming in 2024. As the latest generation of Hyundai's popular Ioniq electric lineup, the Ioniq 3 will feature a complete redesign and increased range. 


Hyundai has redesigned the Ioniq 3 from the ground up using the company's new Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). This dedicated EV platform provides more interior space, improved driving dynamics, and faster charging capabilities. The exterior styling has also been refreshed with Hyundai's latest Sensuous Sportiness design language.


Range is expected to see a significant boost in the Ioniq 3. While current Ioniq models max out around 170 miles on a charge, the new Ioniq 3 should deliver over 250 miles per charge based on the E-GMP platform. This will help alleviate range anxiety for many buyers and make the Ioniq 3 useful for long road trips. 


The Ioniq 3's technology will also be upgraded. It will support 800V ultra-fast charging which can add over 180 miles of range with just a 5 minute charge. The latest version of Hyundai's BlueLink connected car system will provide over-the-air software updates and advanced driver assistance systems. Inside, the interior will feature dual high-definition screens with intuitive controls.


With an expected starting price around $30,000, the 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 3 aims to offer premium electric vehicle features to the masses. For buyers seeking an affordable yet tech-laden EV with sleek styling and ample range, the Ioniq 3 will be a top contender. Its combination of cutting-edge design, efficiency, and value is set to shake up the EV marketplace.


Toyota bZ3


Toyota has exciting plans for an affordable EV in 2024. The Toyota bZ3 will be the automaker's first attempt at a mass-market electric vehicle priced under $30,000. 


As a compact crossover SUV, the bZ3 will aim to bring Toyota quality and reliability to a more accessible price point. While details are still scarce, early reports suggest the bZ3 will have around 250 miles of range from a 60kWh battery pack. 


The bZ3 will ride on Toyota's new e-TNGA platform designed specifically for electric vehicles. This should allow for improved interior space, ride comfort, and responsive handling compared to other affordable EVs.