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Nov 05, 2024

Hot, New Electric Cars That Are Coming Soon - Consumer Reports

EVs in all shapes and sizes that are racing to production... and to a dealership near you

The ongoing business impact of the coronavirus pandemic has slowed auto development and production, but manufacturers’ plans to introduce electric vehicles (EVs) continue unabated. In fact, dozens of pure electric models are set to debut by the end of 2024.

On the menu are cars and an increasing number of SUVs and pickups. And there will be a broader array of plug-in hybrid models, which can run on mostly electric power for a stretch before a gasoline engine kicks in and operates the vehicle more like a traditional hybrid.

The rollout of new EV and plug-in hybrid models across different segments is good news for consumers looking for an alternative-fuel vehicle that will fit their needs.

Below is a rundown of some of the models that are worth watching for in the next couple of years. The list is alphabetical by automaker. Prices are estimates in most cases.

Safety term glossary: AEB = automatic emergency braking; BSW = blind spot warning; LDW = lane departure warning; LKA = lane keeping assistance; RCTW = rear cross traffic warning.

See our EV buying guide and ratings. And check for EV incentives.

Photo: Sony Honda Mobility Photo: Sony Honda Mobility

Honda formed a joint venture with Sony to produce battery electric vehicles together under the brand Afeela. The first prototype, shown at CES in January 2023, features electronics galore, including 45 cameras and sensors. It previews a production model. Sony Honda Mobility announced that orders would begin in 2025, with deliveries scheduled for 2026.

Photo: Audi Photo: Audi

The Audi A6 E-Tron is a midsized, four-door EV with a hatchback, similar in style to the automaker’s A5 and A7 sportback models. It will be offered with three different powertrains when it goes on sale in 2025. The base version uses a 362-hp electric motor driving the rear wheels, while the all-wheel-drive E-Tron quattro has two electric motors that combine to produce 422 hp. A high-performance, AWD S6 version will produce 496 hp, or 543 hp with launch control. All models have a 100 kWh battery. The automaker says the car is uses an 800-volt architecture, which allows it to have a 270 kW maximum acceptance rate at a public DC fast charger. The interior is dominated by large screens: an 11.9-inch one in front of the driver curves and blends into the 14.5-inch center touchscreen. An optional 10.9-inch display is available for the front passenger. With a flat floor the three-person rear seat should be roomier than in the similarly-sized A6 with an internal combustion engine.

Price: $82,000-$108,000 (estimated)On sale: Spring/Summer 2025

Learn more about the Audi A6 E-Tron.

Photo: Audi Photo: Audi

The midsized Audi Q6 E-Tron SUV uses the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) chassis developed with Porsche for use throughout the Volkswagen Group, including underpinning the Porsche Macan Electric. It is 4 inches longer and about 3 inches wider than the Q5, although it is the same height. It launches as the 422-hp Q6 E-Tron and sportier 483-hp SQ6 E-Tron, each with all-wheel drive and the ability to briefly boost horsepower for rapid acceleration in launch mode. Audi estimates the range will be over 300 miles. Later, rear-wheel drive drivetrains and a coupe-like Sportback body style will be added to the line-up.

Price: $60,000-$80,000On sale: Fall 2024

Learn more about the Audi Q6 E-Tron.

Photo: BMW Photo: BMW

BMW has revealed a concept vehicle that teases the innovations and styling direction for future X-badged electric vehicles that will include sport sedans and SUVs. This uses the sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology, with a new lithium-ion battery pack design that increases energy density by 20 percent. It marks a move to an 800-volt electric system that improves DC-fast charging speeds by up to 30 percent. Further, the bodywork enables a 20-percent improvement in aerodynamic efficiency compared to current BMWs. The company says new tire designs and a special brake system help increase overall vehicle efficiency by up to 25 percent.

Photo: Cadillac Photo: Cadillac

Based on GM’s Ultium modular electric platform, the two-row Optiq SUV will be positioned below the Lyriq in the automaker’s expanding line of EVs. There is a single powertrain configuration, with about 300 horsepower and all-wheel drive, and one battery pack at 85 kWh. For now, Cadillac is estimating the driving range at 300 miles. The elegant interior houses a massive 33-inch wide display that encompasses instrument panel and infotainment system functions. Fortunately, there are still physical buttons for many common controls. Fitting with its high-tech image, the Optiq has a comprehensive suite of standard active safety and driver assistance features, including Super Cruise, a partly automated driving system that can handle acceleration, braking, and steering on pre-mapped divided highways.

Price: $54,000-$65,000On sale: Late 2024

Learn more about the Cadillac Optiq.

Photo: Chevrolet Photo: Chevrolet

Chevrolet continues its electric product offensive with the Equinox EV. This small SUV will be offered in two configurations: The front-drive versions have 210 hp with 250 to 300 miles of range and all-wheel-drive versions have 290 hp with 280 miles of range. Numerous trims pile on comfort and convenient features, such as a massive 17.7-inch infotainment screen. It is notable for its generous roster of active safety features and the availability of the hands-free Super Cruise driver assistance technology. The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV sales start with the uplevel 2RS trim.Price: $30,000-$48,000On sale: Now

Learn more about the Chevrolet Equinox EV.

Photo: Chevrolet Photo: Chevrolet

The Silverado EV is built on General Motors’ unique EV-only Ultium platform, unlike the popular gasoline- and diesel-powered Silverado pickup trucks with which it shares a name. It has more in common with the GMC Hummer EV Pickup, including—on top trims—four-wheel steering and an adaptive air suspension system. Priced at $94,500, the top-of-the-line RST First Edition trim is both performance- and luxury-oriented, and GM says it will sprint to 60 mph in less than 4.5 seconds. A fleet Work Truck trim will focus more on towing and utility, and have a starting price below $40,000. GM says the Silverado EV will have up to a 450-mile range.Price: $72,905-$94,500On sale: Now

Learn more about the Chevrolet Silverado EV.

Photo: DeLorean Photo: DeLorean

DeLorean is back to the future with an all-new concept EV that portends a production model. This is a high-performance four-seater, with gullwing doors and a claimed 0 to 88 mph in 4.35 seconds. It is curious that the design for this new car bears no resemblance to the original. With the high-demand Tesla Cybertruck moving toward production, it would seem that the market would be poised for a nostalgic, angular, unpainted car from DeLorean. Instead, the Alpha5 concept looks quite modern, even futuristic, with a polished design that borrows from a few existing cars and might look at home in the Lucid Motors portfolio. The company initially planned to build 9,351 cars, a nod to the original DMC-12 production run. But it announced in February 2023 that it will instead target 4,000 cars "due to supply chain bottlenecks." Pre-orders require an $88 membership fee, and they are managed through an NFT system, allowing buyers to sell and trade their reservations. The price has not been announced.

The Alpha5 will be followed by the Plasmatail, a shoot-brake version—think squared off hatchback. The company has stated that cars will be followed by an SUV.

Price: $150,000-plus (estimated) On sale: 2025

Learn more about the DeLorean Alpha5.

Photo: Dodge Photo: Dodge

The next-generation Charger is offered in both coupe and sedan configurations, with a choice of electric or gas-only powertrains. The electric car is known as the Charger Daytona, and it is initially packaged as an R/T with 496 hp and a 317-mile range, and the Scat Pack with 670 hp and a 260-mile range. A higher-performance Banshee will follow. For traditionalists, there is also a twin-turbocharged inline-six engine available with 420 or 550 hp. Each engine is coupled to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Every Charger comes with all-wheel drive. Also new, whether it’s a two-door or a four-door, this Charger is a hatchback, with a folding rear seat. The modern cabin makes use of screens for gauges, controls, and customization, with many performance settings available.

Electric price: $59,595-$73,100 On sale: Late 2024

Learn more about the Dodge Charger.

Photo: GMC Photo: GMC

Based on the GM Ultium platform shared with the Hummer EV, the Sierra EV will launch as an innovative, premium six-figure pickup truck. Over time, GMC will introduce lower trims at more attainable prices, descending to a $50,000 base price. The Denali Edition 1 boasts 754 hp. GMC says the crew cab truck can launch from 0 to 60 mph in under 4.5 seconds and achieve an estimated 400-mile range. The unified bed and body allows a midgate to open up into the cab, extending enclosed cargo space from a 5-foot, 11-inch bed to 9 feet. Other clever features include crab walk, allowing the truck to move diagonally at low speeds, and all-wheel steering, enabling a tight turning circle. The Denali Edition 1 and the off-road focused AT4 come with a towing-compatible version of the Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology.

Price: $50,000-$107,000 On sale: Early 2024 (Denali Edition 1), late 2024 (AT4), early 2025 (Elevation)

Learn more about the GMC Sierra EV.

Photo: Jeep Photo: Jeep

The Jeep Recon looks like a next-generation Wrangler designed to compete with the Ford Bronco and Land Rover Defender. To ready it for adventure, the Recon has electric axle locking to enhance traction, driver-selectable modes to dial in the capabilities for different environments, and underbody protection. As with the Wrangler, the Recon can be opened up for a wind-in-the-hair driving experience. It has a one-touch power top, plus removable doors and rear side windows.

Price: UnknownOn sale: 2025Learn more about the Jeep Recon.

Photo: Jeep Photo: Jeep

The all-electric, all-wheel-drive Jeep Wagoneer S shares little in common with the large, blocky gas-powered Wagoneer from which it derives its name. The Wagoneer S is closer in size to the Jeep Grand Cherokee. It is also sleek, powerful, and expensive, with LEDs illuminating its interior, as well as the vestigial version of the seven-slot grille all Jeeps carry as a trademark. It has a 100-kilowatt-hour battery and a pair of electric motors that crank out 600 horsepower and 617 lb.-ft. of torque. The interior features three large display screens. There’s even a screen for the front seat passenger, who can feed navigation directions into the computer that the driver can see on the instrument screen on the other side of the dash.

Price: $71,995On sale: Late 2024

Learn more about the Jeep Wagoneer S.

Photo: Lucid Photo: Lucid

Startup automaker Lucid’s second vehicle is the 2025 Gravity SUV. The automaker promises an extremely robust range of more than 440 miles, seating for up to seven passengers, a ton of cargo space, and a starting price below $80,000. If that’s not enough, Lucid says the Gravity will have at least 800-hp and be able to sprint from 0-60 mph in under 3.5 seconds, which wouldn’t be too surprising considering the Air sedan’s outrageous performance. Unlike most newer SUVs, the Gravity trades aggressive exterior styling for flowing lines. Interior features include wide digital displays and even a guided meditation program. We doubt drivers will have much downtime, though, since the Gravity’s 900-volt design means it can add 200 miles in just 15 minutes at a high-speed public DC charger.

Price: $79,900-$94,900On sale: Late 2024Learn more about the Lucid Gravity.

Photo: Polestar Photo: Polestar

The midsized Polestar 3 SUV will expand the electric-only brand’s portfolio, packed with luxury features and safety equipment. Each 3 comes in a dual-motor configuration with all-wheel drive. The standard “long range” model has 489 hp, with an estimated 300-mile range. The step up is a “long range” model with a Performance Pack. It has 517 hp and an estimated 270-mile range. Both have a 400-volt lithium battery, with 111-kW capacity, and a maximum tow capacity of 3,500 pounds. First-year models are well equipped, from HUD and 25-speaker stereo to a generous roster of active safety systems that includes AEB with cyclist and pedestrian detection, LDW, LKA, BSW, and many more features, supported by five radars and five external cameras. There is an upgrade that adds lidar and more external sensors.

Price: $73,400-$79,400On sale: Summer 2024

Learn more about the Polestar 3.

Photo: Polestar Photo: Polestar

The Polestar 4 electric vehicle is a coupe-like SUV. It is the sportier version of the Polestar 3. The Polestar 4 is available in two powertrain configurations, each labeled “long range” and featuring a 102-kWh battery. The rear-wheel-drive configuration has a single motor producing 272 horsepower and EPA-estimated 300-mile range. All-wheel-drive versions boast 544 horsepower and a 270-mile range. The cabin is Scandinavian sparse, with a large, 15.4-inch center screen hosting a Google-based infotainment system. It is wireless Apple CarPlay compatible. This is the first production vehicle without a rear window. Instead, it uses a high-mounted camera to provide a wide-view video feed to the rearview mirror display. A hands-free driving system is available at launch, with LIDAR-supported “eyes-free” ability planned for the future.

Price: $54,000-$72,900On sale: Late 2024

Learn more about the Polestar 4.

Photo: Porsche Photo: Porsche

The all-new Macan Electric is based on the company’s new Premium Platform Electric (PPE) chassis, which will be used for future models. Compared to the gas-only Macan, the Macan Electric rides on a three-inch longer wheelbase, and its overall length is likewise about three inches longer. There are two configurations: The Macan 4 and Macan Turbo, each defined by power levels. Both versions have all-wheel drive via two motors and use an 800-volt architecture for rapid DC public charging. Technical trickery enhances this electric model, from the creative head-up display with augmented reality to the standard adaptive suspension and available rear steering. The Macan EV will be offered alongside the current Macan, possibly for a few years.

Price: $78,800-$105,300On sale: Late 2024

Learn more about the Porsche Macan Electric.

Photo: Ram Photo: Ram

The 1500 REV looks every bit like a next-generation Ram pickup truck, with many familiar styling cues and features. There is a single 654-hp electric powertrain, with a choice of standard (350-mile range) or large (500-mile range) battery packs. The electrical system is compatible with 800-volt DC fast chargers for rapid replenishment, and it can route power to a house, the grid, or supply a work site. It uses an independent rear suspension and will be available with an adjustable air suspension. The new Tungsten top trim pushes the Ram’s luxury boundaries, with a more premium interior, Klipsch stereo, and even massaging front seats. The 1500 REV will be available with a hands-free driver assist system.

Price: $55,000-$90,000 (estimated)On sale: Late 2024

Learn more about the Ram 1500 REV.

Photo: Rivian Photo: Rivian

The Rivian R2 is a two-row, five-passenger all-electric SUV that’s smaller than its R1S sibling. Sized like a Honda CR-V, the R2 will be available in single-, dual-, and tri-motor applications, with the latter two giving the SUV all-wheel drive. While battery and motor specs haven’t been released, the automaker says all versions will be able to go at least 300 miles on a full charge. The R2 will come standard with a NACS charging port, and it can be charged with a CCS coupler using an adaptor. Like its larger siblings, the R2s interior is dominated by a large center touchscreen, with a smaller instrument panel used for speed, selected gear, and other data. The R2 features a few tricks, such as the ability to fold both the front and rear seats flat for no-tent camping, along with a rear window that lowers into the tailgate for better airflow or to carry long items without using a roof rack. A slightly smaller R3 hatchback will follow the R2 into production.

Price: $45,000-$55,000 (estimated)On sale: Mid-2026Learn more about the Rivian R2 and R3.

Photo: Scout Photo: Scout

The Scout Terra pickup truck and Scout Traveler SUV are prototypes of the first models to wear the Scout badge in 44 years, and they aim to mix new technology with what we think are the best kinds of old-school sensibilities. Scout is a division of Volkswagen focused on electric vehicles inspired by the 1970s International Scout 80 pickup truck and International Scout II SUV.

These rugged, retro EVs have a claimed 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds, 7,000 pound tow capacity, and 350-mile driving range. An optional ’Harvester’ version gets a gas-powered range extender for up to 500 miles of range. Scout owners will find real buttons and knobs for infotainment and climate control, traditional exterior door handles, and even an optional three-person front bench seat. Both Scout models are based on an all-new, rugged, body-on-frame design that’s not shared with other electric vehicles from Volkswagen and Audi. The automaker says that production will start in 2027 at Scout’s new factory in South Carolina.Price: UnknownOn sale: 2027

Learn more about the Scout Terra & Traveler.

Photo: Tesla Photo: Tesla

Tesla’s road map has the electric-only product line expanding from the Model S, Model X, and Model 3 to the Cybertruck, Semi tractor-trailer truck, and the Roadster. The name is a nod to the original Tesla car, an electric convertible based on a Lotus platform. This car promises performance quite unlike any car that has come before, but well-heeled driving enthusiasts will need to wait longer for the model to reach production. When it was initially unveiled in 2017, Tesla said it aimed to build the Roadster in 2020. And as the saying now goes, that plan went all “2020.” Other models have taken longer to develop, stretching out the timeline as the company faces the challenge of expanding its factories, creating next-generation batteries, and engineering more advanced Full Self-Driving capability. Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, said the Roadster should ship in 2023, but more recently he has indicated that all new products are delayed because of supply constraints. A launch in 2024 seems more likely.

The Roadster is a bit of a misnomer. It’s a four-seater, with a snug back seat and a partly retractable hardtop. It uses three motors powering all wheels to deliver its claimed rocketlike acceleration, with the automaker citing 0 to 60 mph in 1.9 seconds. And it will offer 620 miles of range.Price: $200,000 to $250,000On sale: 2025?

Photo: VinFast Photo: VinFast

The VF 6 is roughly the same size as subcompact SUVs like the Honda HR-V, while the VF 7 is similar in size to the Mazda CX-5. As with the larger models, the VF 6 and VF 7 will come in Eco and Plus trims. They will be available with either a standard- or long-range battery pack. The smaller VF 6 will be available only in front-wheel-drive configuration, while the Plus trim on the VF 7 will come with a two-motor all-wheel-drive system. The power level will also vary. The VF 6 Eco will have 174 hp of output, while the higher-end Plus trim will put out 201 hp.

Prices: $30,000 to $45,000On sale: 2025

Learn more about the VinFast VF 6 and VF 7.

Photo: VinFast Photo: VinFast

There’s a new electric vehicle company in town: VinFast. Its home base is in Vietnam, and it plans to invest $4 billion in a manufacturing plant in North Carolina. The automaker showed two SUVs at the 2022 New York auto show, the VF 8 and VF 9. Both the two-row VF 8 and the larger three-row VF 9 feature a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. The Eco version has 348 hp, and the Plus trim has 402 hp. Eco has 348 horsepower and a 264-mile EPA-certified electric range, whereas the Plus has 402 horsepower and a 243-mile range. The company claims the VF8 can be charged from 10 to 70 percent in 31 minutes on a DC fast charger.

Prices: VF 8: Eco ($46,000) and Plus ($51,800). VF 9: $73,800 to $75,050On sale: Now

Learn more about VinFast and its models.

Photo: Volkswagen Photo: Volkswagen

The Volkswagen GTI hot hatchback is going all-electric. The German automaker teased this revolutionary redesign by revealing a GTI concept car at the September, 2023, IAA Mobility show in Munich exactly 48 years after the first Golf GTI debuted at a similar event in Frankfurt. We expect a production GTI to closely resemble the concept shown here. It’s a hint smaller than the current GTI, shrinking from 167 inches long to 161.6 inches on a wheelbase that’s down from 104 inches to 102.4 inches. It is an inch wider, however. The styling is a bit more aggressive than the last gas-only GTI, with more dramatic inlets on the front corners to route cooling air to the brakes and a nice twist on the side skirts. Not surprisingly, the grille is smaller, because there is no engine to cool. The rear door handle appears to be hidden in the window frame, which reduces aerodynamic drag. A shifter shaped like a golf ball has long been a GTI styling cue; here, that historical touch is represented by using a ball to interact with the infotainment system, which has a 12.9-inch display. The digital instrument panel can be configured to look modern or transformed in vintage mode to mimic the analog setup of classic GTIs. Another heritage touch is the use of plaid upholstery, another longtime GTI cue.

Photo: Volkswagen Photo: Volkswagen

The Volkswagen ID.7 midsized electric sedan uses the company’s modular electric drive (MEB) platform, shared with the ID.4 SUV. It is sized like the retired Passat sedan, but it promises to be even roomier than that spacious four-door. And this latest electric car has a few tricks up its sleeves, such as a giant 15-inch center screen, head-up display, adjustable tint glass roof, adaptive suspension, and available massaging seats. And although it may not be readily apparent, it is a hatchback. The ID.7 uses a new electric drivetrain, with a 282-hp electric motor paired with a two-stage, one-speed transmission. A lithium-ion battery is packaged in the floor with a 77-kWh capacity and a 170-kW charging capability. A larger 86-kWh version may be offered later. The ID.7 introduction in the U.S. has been delayed, although it has been on sale in Europe since 2023.

Price: $45,000 to $55,000 (estimated)On sale: 2025

Learn more about the Volkswagen ID.7.

The Volkswagen ID.Buzz electric van is a nostalgic tribute to the classic Microbus, but it is a decidedly modern vehicle without a direct rival. It measures about a foot less than traditional minivans, but the packaging benefits from not having an engine upfront. The ID.Buzz uses either a single motor with 282 hp to drive the rear wheels or a dual-motor, 335-hp configuration with all-wheel drive. The EPA-estimated range for ID. Buzz is 234 miles for RWD models; 231 miles for 4Motion models. The cabin has a rather minimalist design, with neat horizontal vents, 12.9-inch infotainment screen, and numerous charge points for mobile devices. There are many creature comforts on the base van, such as powered, heated, and ventilated front seats. Options include a heated windshield, panoramic sunroof with electrochromic tinting, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon stereo.

Price: $59,995 - $69,995On sale: Late 2024

Learn more about the 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz.

Photo: Volvo Photo: Volvo

Volvo says the all-new, all-electric EX30 is the smallest, fastest, and most efficient SUV the brand has ever made. It is slightly shorter than the similarly priced Hyundai Kona Electric or Kia Niro EV. Volvo says the all-wheel-drive version of the EX30 can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, and the rear-wheel-drive version has an estimated range of up to 275 miles. It is available with either rear- or all-wheel drive. The design is minimalist, with a single center-mounted touchscreen doing the work of speedometer, climate control, and infotainment. The interior is chock-full of recycled and natural materials. Safety features include a warning if occupants are about to open a door in the path of an oncoming cyclist. The EX30 will initially be built in China, which means it won’t qualify for federal tax credits.

Price: $34,950 to $50,000 (estimated)On sale: 2024Learn more about the 2024 Volvo EX30.

Photo: Volvo Photo: Volvo

Volvo’s new flagship is a seven-passenger, three-row, all-wheel-drive electric SUV called the EX90. It is equipped with cutting-edge safety technology, including a driver monitoring system that can pull over and call for help if a driver becomes unresponsive, and a lidar sensor to support its advanced driving assistance systems. A minimalist, leather-free interior makes use of recycled materials and hidden lighting. Power comes from a 400-volt, 111-kWh lithium battery that can charge from 10 to 80 percent in about a half hour at a fast public charging station. According to Volvo, the EX90 can drive up to 300 miles on a charge.

Price: $79,995-$85,640On sale: Late 2024

Learn more about the 2024 Volvo EX90.

Safety term glossary:See our EV buying guide and ratings. And check for EV incentives.Price:On sale:Learn more about the Audi A6 E-Tron.Price:On sale:Learn more about the Audi Q6 E-Tron.Price:On sale:Learn more about the Cadillac Optiq.Price:PriceOn sale:Learn more about the Chevrolet Equinox EV.Price:PriceOn sale:Learn more about the Chevrolet Silverado EV.Price:PriceOn sale:Learn more about the DeLorean Alpha5.Electric price: Electric price:On sale:Learn more about the Dodge Charger.GMC Sierra EVPrice:PriceOn sale:Learn more about the GMC Sierra EV.Price:PriceOn sale:Learn more about thePrice:On sale: Learn more about the Jeep Wagoneer S.Price:On sale:Learn more about the Lucid Gravity.Price:On sale:Learn more about the Polestar 3.Price: On sale: Learn more about the Polestar 4.Price: On sale: Learn more about the Porsche Macan Electric.Price:On sale: Learn more about the Ram 1500 REV. Price:On sale:Learn more about the Rivian R2 and R3.Price:PricePrice:PriceOn sale:Prices:On sale:Learn more about the VinFast VF 6 and VF 7.Prices:On sale:Learn more about VinFast and its models.Price:PriceOn sale:Learn more about thePrice:On sale:Learn more about the 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz.Price:PriceOn sale:Learn more about the 2024 Volvo EX30Price:PriceOn sale:Learn more about the 2024 Volvo EX90
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