Top EVs of 2024: Carly Gregg Reviews the Best Electric Vehicles
The electric vehicle market has reached an inflection point in 2024, with manufacturers delivering unprecedented choice, performance, and practicality. Whether you’re considering your first EV or upgrading to the latest technology, understanding what separates the best options requires diving deep into specs, real-world performance, and charging infrastructure. This comprehensive review examines the standout electric vehicles that define 2024’s landscape, drawing on industry expertise and hands-on evaluation.
Carly Gregg, a respected automotive journalist and EV enthusiast, has evaluated dozens of electric vehicles this year. Her analysis focuses on the vehicles that genuinely deliver on their promises—combining range, charging speed, interior quality, and driving dynamics. The 2024 model year represents a maturation of the EV market, where early-adopter compromises have largely disappeared, making this an excellent time to transition to electric driving.
Tesla Model Y: Still the Benchmark
The Tesla Model Y continues its reign as the world’s best-selling vehicle, and for 2024, updates to the powertrain and interior justify its dominance. The refreshed Model Y delivers improvements across all variants, from the base Model Y RWD with 272 miles of EPA-estimated range to the Model Y Performance with 303 miles and 0-60 mph acceleration in 3.5 seconds.
What separates the Model Y from competitors is its integrated approach to the ownership experience. Tesla’s Supercharger network provides unmatched charging convenience, with 50,000+ stations globally. The 2024 Model Y adds improved thermal management, allowing faster charging in cold weather—a critical advantage in northern climates. The interior redesign introduces a minimalist aesthetic with a horizontal scroll wheel replacing traditional stalks, though this requires an adjustment period for new drivers.
The Model Y Long Range AWD represents the sweet spot for most buyers, offering 330 miles of range, dual motor performance with 5.0-second 0-60 acceleration, and a $52,990 starting price. Real-world testing confirms EPA estimates remain conservative; highway efficiency regularly exceeds 25 kWh/100 miles. The vehicle’s low center of gravity and responsive steering make it genuinely enjoyable on winding roads, not just efficient on highways.
For those seeking maximum performance, the Model Y Performance delivers supercar acceleration with practical five-seat capacity. The stiffened suspension and track-focused tuning create a driving experience that justifies the $56,990 premium over the RWD base model. However, performance variants sacrifice range to approximately 303 miles, and aggressive acceleration drains the battery faster during spirited driving.
When exploring advantages of electric vehicles, the Model Y exemplifies how EVs match or exceed traditional vehicles in real-world utility. The cabin climate control, one-pedal driving, and zero-emission operation combine to create a fundamentally different ownership experience. However, build quality concerns persist in some markets, with paint thickness and panel gaps occasionally falling short of premium expectations.
Chevrolet Blazer EV: American Value
General Motors’ commitment to electric mobility crystallizes in the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV, which delivers performance and features at a price point that challenges Tesla’s market dominance. Starting at $49,995 for the base FWD model, the Blazer EV offers 293 miles of EPA-estimated range, Ultium platform efficiency, and General Motors’ expanding Ultium Charging Network access.
The Blazer EV AWD variant provides 288 miles of range with 0-60 acceleration in 5.6 seconds, positioning it as a genuine performance alternative to the Model Y. The 2024 model year introduces improved infotainment software addressing early criticism, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now standard. The 11.6-inch touchscreen responds quickly, and the menu structure feels intuitive after minimal familiarization.
Interior space exceeds the Model Y, with a more traditional dashboard layout that appeals to drivers transitioning from gasoline vehicles. The seats provide excellent support for long-distance driving, and the cargo area accommodates 28.3 cubic feet of luggage—sufficient for weekend trips without compromise. The one-pedal driving implementation feels natural, allowing drivers to control acceleration and deceleration through throttle modulation alone.
The Blazer EV’s real strength emerges in value proposition. After federal tax credits, well-qualified buyers can drive home for under $40,000, making EV adoption accessible to mainstream consumers. The warranty coverage—8 years/100,000 miles for battery and drivetrain—matches industry leaders. Real-world charging experiences benefit from GM’s expanding network, though Supercharger access through partnerships remains limited compared to Tesla’s proprietary infrastructure.
BMW i7: Luxury Redefined
BMW’s all-electric 7 Series flagship demonstrates how traditional luxury manufacturers approach electrification. The 2024 BMW i7 xDrive50 delivers 324 miles of EPA-estimated range, 0-60 acceleration in 4.6 seconds, and a starting price of $104,250 that positions it above the Tesla Model S but below traditional gasoline 7 Series models.
The i7’s strength lies in its execution of luxury fundamentals. The interior materials—leather, open-pore wood, ambient lighting—create an environment that justifies the premium. The curved display spanning the dashboard includes a 14.9-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, and head-up display providing comprehensive information presentation. The iDrive 8 interface, while featuring a learning curve, ultimately provides quicker access to frequently used functions than Tesla’s minimalist approach.
Driving dynamics reveal BMW’s engineering heritage, with responsive steering, composed suspension tuning, and precise braking modulation. The air suspension automatically adjusts ride height and stiffness based on driving conditions, creating a smooth highway experience while maintaining body control through corners. The silent operation of the electric powertrain allows appreciation of the sound system and road ambiance.
Charging capabilities include an 11.5 kW onboard charger enabling full recharge from empty in approximately 32 hours on 240-volt household power. DC fast charging reaches 195 kW, allowing 10-80% recharge in approximately 35 minutes. The iDrive system integrates charging planning, automatically identifying optimal charging stops on long trips and preconditioning the battery for faster charging.
Hyundai Ioniq 6: Efficiency Champion
Hyundai’s Ioniq 6 sedan represents a paradigm shift in EV efficiency, delivering 361 miles of EPA-estimated range in the Long Range RWD configuration—surpassing nearly all competitors in real-world highway driving. Starting at $42,050, the Ioniq 6 offers exceptional value for efficiency-focused buyers prioritizing range over cargo space.
The aerodynamic design—featuring a fastback roofline, closed underbody, and optimized wheel design—achieves a 0.21 coefficient of drag, among the lowest in the automotive industry. This efficiency translates to superior highway range; independent testing confirms 28+ kWh/100 miles on consistent 70 mph driving. For road-trippers, this efficiency means fewer charging stops and faster overall trip completion.
The Ioniq 6’s interior prioritizes technology and simplicity, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless charging for smartphones, and a minimalist dashboard design. The 54-kWh battery in the base model provides 303 miles of range, while the 84-kWh battery in Long Range configurations delivers the segment-leading distance. Acceleration remains adequate rather than thrilling—the RWD reaches 0-60 in 7.2 seconds, while the AWD variant achieves 5.8 seconds.
Hyundai’s commitment to reliability and warranty coverage extends to the Ioniq 6, with 10-year/100,000-mile battery coverage—the longest in the industry. This confidence in longevity reflects the engineering maturity of the E-GMP platform shared with Kia. Charging compatibility includes both NACS and CCS standards, ensuring future-proof charging access as the industry standardizes.
Lucid Air: Performance and Range
Lucid Motors’ Air sedan pushes boundaries in electric performance, delivering the longest EPA-estimated range (516 miles in the Pure RWD variant) and acceleration rivaling supercar manufacturers. The 2024 Air represents the company’s evolution, with pricing adjustments and refined manufacturing bringing the dream of an attainable luxury EV closer to reality.
The Air Pure RWD starts at $69,900 and delivers 516 miles of range, fundamentally changing the conversation around EV practicality. Highway driving reveals this range is conservative; real-world testing confirms 27 kWh/100 miles on consistent 70 mph driving. The Pure’s single motor delivers adequate acceleration at 4.5 seconds 0-60, suitable for most drivers though lacking the performance edge of higher trims.
Stepping up to the Air Grand Range adds a second motor and increases range to 500 miles while improving acceleration to 3.2 seconds. The Air Sapphire, Lucid’s performance flagship, delivers tri-motor all-wheel drive with 1,234 horsepower, 0-60 acceleration in 1.89 seconds, and 512 miles of range. This performance rivals the fastest supercars while maintaining practical seating for five adults and 16.9 cubic feet of cargo space.
The interior quality justifies the premium pricing, with leather, wood, and aluminum trim creating an environment comparable to Bentley and Rolls-Royce. The 34-inch curved display dominates the dashboard, integrating digital instruments, infotainment, and climate controls. The driving position, adjustable throughout an exceptional range, allows customization rivaling luxury sedans costing significantly more.
Lucid’s charging technology supports up to 350 kW DC fast charging, allowing 20-80% recharge in approximately 20 minutes. The integrated 22 kW onboard charger enables full recharge overnight on 240-volt household power. However, Lucid’s charging network remains limited; reliance on third-party networks may frustrate owners in rural areas.
Kia EV9: Three-Row Electric Family
Kia’s three-row EV9 addresses a critical gap in the electric market—practical family transportation without compromise. The 2024 EV9 delivers seating for up to seven adults (with standard three-row configuration), 304 miles of EPA-estimated range in the Long Range RWD variant, and pricing starting at $54,900 for the base Light RWD.
The EV9’s interior space exceeds traditional three-row SUVs, with genuine third-row legroom accommodating adults on trips exceeding two hours. The sliding second row and reconfigurable cargo area provide flexibility for various packing scenarios. When all seats fold, 108 cubic feet of cargo space opens possibilities for furniture, equipment, or extended road trip supplies.
The Long Range AWD variant, priced at $61,800, delivers 304 miles of range and dual-motor performance with 5.0-second 0-60 acceleration. Real-world testing confirms highway range exceeds EPA estimates; 26 kWh/100 miles is achievable on consistent highway driving. The standard air suspension provides smooth highway cruising while maintaining body control through corners.
Technology integration includes a 14.6-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, and augmented reality navigation projecting turn-by-turn directions onto the windshield. The Kia Connect app enables remote climate control, charge scheduling, and vehicle tracking. The charging system supports up to 233 kW DC fast charging, enabling 10-80% recharge in approximately 18 minutes.
For families considering the transition to electric driving, the EV9 eliminates the primary objection—the need for three-row seating. The Kia warranty matches Hyundai’s commitment with 10-year/100,000-mile battery coverage, providing long-term ownership confidence. The E-GMP platform’s maturity ensures reliability comparable to established gasoline three-row competitors.
Charging and Infrastructure
The EV ownership experience extends far beyond the vehicle itself; charging infrastructure determines practical usability. The 2024 landscape has transformed dramatically, with over 50,000 public charging stations in North America and expanding networks globally. Understanding charging types—Level 1 (120V household), Level 2 (240V), and DC fast charging—proves essential for maximizing EV ownership satisfaction.
Home charging represents the foundation of EV ownership convenience. Installing a Level 2 charger (240V, 7-19 kW) costs $500-$2,500 including installation and enables overnight charging sufficient for 25-50 miles of daily driving. For apartment dwellers lacking dedicated parking, public Level 2 networks provide affordable charging at shopping centers, workplaces, and parking facilities. The EPA fuel economy guide provides detailed charging cost calculations demonstrating EV efficiency advantages.
DC fast charging has become critical for long-distance travel, with networks like Tesla’s Supercharger, Electrify America, and Evgo expanding rapidly. The transition to NACS (North American Charging Standard) standardization, adopted by major manufacturers including Ford, General Motors, and Volkswagen, promises simplified charging experiences. The PlugShare app aggregates charging station information, enabling trip planning and real-time availability checking.
Charging economics favor EV ownership dramatically. At average U.S. electricity rates ($0.14/kWh), charging costs approximately $0.04 per mile compared to $0.10-$0.12 per mile for gasoline vehicles. This 60% cost reduction compounds over vehicle lifetime, making EV ownership increasingly attractive despite higher initial purchase prices. The Cars and Driver charging guide provides comprehensive charging strategy recommendations for various driving patterns.
For those considering EV adoption, understanding car maintenance tips for beginners applies differently to electric vehicles. EVs eliminate oil changes, transmission fluid, spark plugs, and timing belt services, reducing maintenance costs by 40% over vehicle lifetime. Brake wear also decreases dramatically due to regenerative braking, capturing energy during deceleration.
Total Cost of Ownership
The EV purchase decision requires evaluating total cost of ownership rather than sticker price alone. Federal tax credits up to $7,500 reduce effective purchase prices significantly. Many states offer additional incentives—California provides up to $7,500 state rebates, Colorado offers $5,000 tax credits, and several other states provide registration fee reductions or additional incentives.
After federal and state incentives, the Chevrolet Blazer EV can cost $35,000-$40,000 for well-qualified buyers, making EV ownership price-competitive with gasoline crossovers. The Hyundai Ioniq 6 similarly benefits from incentives, reducing effective cost below $35,000 for many buyers. Even premium options like the BMW i7 qualify for federal credits, reducing the effective price premium over gasoline 7 Series models.
Operating costs favor EVs decisively. Electricity costs one-third to one-half that of gasoline. Maintenance requirements drop by 40% due to eliminated fluid changes and simplified powertrains. Brake replacement intervals extend 2-3 times longer than gasoline vehicles due to regenerative braking. Battery degradation remains minimal for vehicles within warranty periods; testing shows 2-3% capacity loss over 100,000 miles for modern EV batteries.
Insurance costs vary by vehicle and insurer, though EVs generally cost 5-10% more to insure than comparable gasoline vehicles due to higher repair costs and specialized technician requirements. However, some insurers offer EV-specific discounts recognizing lower accident rates and safer driving patterns among EV owners. Obtaining insurance quotes for specific models before purchase proves essential for accurate cost calculations.
For those concerned about long-term costs, understanding the car insurance claim process ensures protection against unexpected repair expenses. Many EVs include roadside assistance programs covering towing to certified repair facilities, minimizing out-of-pocket costs for covered incidents.
Driving Experience and Performance
Electric vehicles fundamentally change the driving experience in ways that extend beyond acceleration and efficiency. The instant torque delivery of electric motors creates responsive acceleration that feels more immediate than turbocharged gasoline engines. Even modest-performing EVs like the Hyundai Ioniq 6 feel lively in city driving due to this torque characteristic.
One-pedal driving, available on most 2024 EVs, represents a transformative feature for daily driving. Lifting off the accelerator engages regenerative braking, capturing kinetic energy and slowing the vehicle without touching the brake pedal. After an adjustment period, drivers report preferring one-pedal driving for its simplicity and efficiency benefits. Highway driving rarely requires this feature; maintaining throttle input proves more efficient and comfortable.
Cabin quietness defines the EV experience. The absence of engine noise, gear changes, and transmission whine creates an environment comparable to luxury sedans costing significantly more. This tranquility reveals road and tire noise more prominently; quality tire selection becomes more important in EVs than gasoline vehicles where engine noise masks these frequencies.
Regenerative braking and low center of gravity create dynamic characteristics that appeal to enthusiast drivers. The Model Y Performance and Lucid Air Sapphire deliver acceleration rivaling supercars, while maintaining practical capacity for families. The Kia EV9 and Chevrolet Blazer EV prove that family vehicles need not sacrifice driving enjoyment for practicality.
Real-World Range Testing
EPA estimates, while useful for comparison, often exceed real-world range in various driving conditions. Cold weather, highway driving, and aggressive acceleration reduce range compared to EPA’s controlled testing environment. Understanding these variables enables accurate trip planning and eliminates range anxiety.
Cold weather testing reveals 15-25% range reduction compared to EPA estimates. The Hyundai Ioniq 6’s exceptional efficiency maintains strong range even in winter conditions; independent testing shows 280+ miles in 40-degree Fahrenheit weather. The Tesla Model Y’s thermal management system, which heats the battery before charging and during cold operation, minimizes cold weather penalties compared to competitors.
Highway driving at 75+ mph reduces range 10-20% compared to EPA estimates. The Lucid Air’s aerodynamic efficiency provides measurably better highway range than competitors; 450+ miles remains achievable at consistent 70 mph highway speeds. The Chevrolet Blazer EV and Tesla Model Y deliver 280+ miles of highway range despite lower EPA estimates.
Aggressive acceleration and performance driving reduce range 15-30% compared to EPA estimates. The Model Y Performance and Lucid Air Sapphire, when driven spiritedly, consume battery capacity at elevated rates. Drivers prioritizing maximum range should avoid aggressive acceleration patterns, which contradicts the performance character of these vehicles.
Future Considerations
The EV market continues evolving rapidly, with new models and technologies emerging constantly. The 2024 landscape represents a maturation point where practicality no longer requires compromise. Future developments promise improved charging speed, extended range, and lower pricing as competition intensifies and manufacturing scales.
Battery technology improvements continue advancing range and charging speed. Solid-state batteries, expected in production vehicles within 3-5 years, promise 50% range increases and faster charging. However, current generation lithium-ion batteries have proven reliable and cost-effective, providing no compelling reason to delay EV purchase awaiting future technology.
The transition to NACS charging standard simplifies the ownership experience, eliminating concerns about connector compatibility. Manufacturers adopting NACS gain access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, effectively doubling charging infrastructure availability. This standardization removes a significant barrier to EV adoption for consumers concerned about charging availability.
FAQ
What is the best EV for long-distance driving?
The Lucid Air Pure RWD delivers 516 miles of EPA-estimated range, enabling 400+ mile highway days without charging. The Tesla Model Y Long Range and Hyundai Ioniq 6 Long Range also excel at long-distance travel with 330+ miles of range. Charging infrastructure and vehicle efficiency matter as much as range; the Ioniq 6’s superior efficiency enables faster overall trip completion despite lower peak range.
How much does home charging installation cost?
Level 2 (240V) charger installation typically costs $500-$2,500 depending on electrical panel capacity, distance from panel to parking location, and local labor rates. Many utilities offer rebates of $200-$500, reducing net costs. Apartment dwellers should prioritize public charging infrastructure and workplace charging rather than home installation.
Do EVs require special maintenance?
EVs eliminate oil changes, transmission fluid service, spark plugs, and timing belt replacements. Tire rotations, air filter replacement, and brake fluid checks remain necessary but occur less frequently than gasoline vehicles. Regenerative braking extends brake pad life 2-3 times longer than traditional vehicles. Battery cooling system maintenance becomes important for long-term reliability.
What federal tax credits are available for EV purchases?
The federal tax credit provides up to $7,500 for new EV purchases, with specific requirements regarding vehicle assembly location and battery component sourcing. Used EV purchases qualify for up to $4,000 credit with income limitations. Many states offer additional incentives, reducing effective purchase prices significantly. Consult the EPA fuel economy website for current eligibility details.
How long does an EV battery last?
Modern EV batteries degrade 2-3% over 100,000 miles, with most vehicles retaining 90%+ capacity at 200,000 miles. Real-world data from Tesla vehicles with 300,000+ miles confirms long-term durability. Manufacturer warranties typically cover 8-10 years and 100,000+ miles, providing financial protection against premature degradation.
Can I tow with an EV?
Several 2024 EVs enable towing, though range penalties are significant. The Kia EV9, Tesla Model Y, and Lucid Air support towing up to 5,000 pounds. Towing reduces range 20-40% depending on trailer weight and aerodynamics. Buyers prioritizing towing should evaluate range reduction carefully and ensure charging infrastructure exists along intended routes.
What is regenerative braking?
Regenerative braking captures kinetic energy during deceleration, converting it to electrical energy that recharges the battery. This process reduces brake wear and extends range 10-20% depending on driving patterns. City driving with frequent deceleration benefits most from regenerative braking; highway driving provides minimal regenerative braking opportunity.
How do I find charging stations?
Multiple apps aggregate charging station information: Tesla’s built-in navigation, PlugShare, Electrify America’s app, and Evgo’s app. Google Maps and Apple Maps increasingly integrate charging station information. Most vehicles include navigation integration enabling charging planning on long trips, automatically identifying optimal charging stops.
