Carly Gregg’s EV Picks: Top Models 2024

The electric vehicle market has exploded with compelling options in 2024, and navigating this landscape requires expertise and genuine enthusiasm for the technology. Carly Gregg, a leading automotive journalist specializing in electric vehicle reviews, has curated a definitive list of the year’s most impressive EVs. From luxurious sedans to practical crossovers, these models represent the cutting edge of battery technology, performance, and design innovation.

This comprehensive guide explores the standout electric vehicles that have captured Carly Gregg’s attention throughout 2024. Whether you’re considering your first EV purchase or upgrading to a newer generation, understanding the strengths and characteristics of each model will help you make an informed decision. We’ll examine performance metrics, range capabilities, charging infrastructure compatibility, and real-world usability factors that matter most to today’s EV buyers.

Tesla Model S Plaid: Performance Excellence

The Tesla Model S Plaid remains an uncompromising performance benchmark in the EV segment, delivering supercar-level acceleration with practical seating for five adults. With three independent motors producing 1,020 horsepower, the Plaid accelerates from zero to 60 mph in approximately 1.99 seconds—faster than most purpose-built sports cars. This tri-motor architecture provides exceptional traction control and weight distribution, allowing the 4,765-pound sedan to handle like a vehicle half its size.

Range capability extends to 358 miles on the EPA cycle, sufficient for most daily driving patterns without compromise. The 100-kWh battery pack utilizes Tesla’s latest cell chemistry, delivering consistent power delivery across the entire state of charge spectrum. Owners report minimal degradation after 100,000 miles, with many vehicles retaining 95 percent of original capacity. Charging speeds benefit from Tesla’s proprietary Supercharger network, adding 200 miles in roughly 20 minutes using V3 infrastructure.

Interior refinement distinguishes the Model S Plaid from competitors. The minimalist dashboard features a 17-inch touchscreen controlling all vehicle functions, complemented by premium leather appointments and ambient lighting. Falcon Wing doors provide theatrical entry and exit, while the glass roof extends across the entire cabin length. Real-world owners appreciate the whisper-quiet cabin, responsive steering, and the sensation of instantaneous torque delivery that defines electric performance.

Practical considerations include the spacious frunk capable of holding golf bags or luggage, plus a trunk accommodating typical grocery runs. The air suspension automatically adjusts ride height for highway stability or ground clearance when parked. However, the Model S Plaid’s premium pricing exceeds $100,000, positioning it as an aspirational vehicle rather than a mass-market option. Service requirements remain minimal thanks to regenerative braking systems that eliminate traditional brake wear and the absence of engine oil changes.

Chevrolet Blazer EV: American Muscle Meets Efficiency

General Motors’ Chevrolet Blazer EV captures the spirit of the legendary nameplate while delivering thoroughly modern electric performance. This three-row crossover produces 288 horsepower in the standard configuration, with an optional super cruise delivering 402 horsepower for more spirited driving. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive system provides balanced handling characteristics and impressive winter traction without sacrificing efficiency.

EPA-estimated range reaches 293 miles for the base model, with the extended-range variant delivering up to 320 miles. The Ultium battery platform, developed collaboratively across GM’s EV lineup, provides modular flexibility allowing future battery upgrades as technology advances. Charging from 10 to 80 percent capacity requires approximately 25 minutes using 200-kW DC fast charging infrastructure, practical for road trip scenarios.

Interior space distinguishes the Blazer EV from sedan-based competitors. The boxy proportions deliver 23.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 64.2 cubic feet with seats folded. The panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with natural light, while the available Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving system represents a significant quality-of-life improvement for highway commuting. Real-world owners appreciate the intuitive infotainment system and the substantial visibility afforded by the upright driving position.

Pricing positions the Blazer EV as an attainable entry point to premium electric vehicles, with base models starting around $48,000. Federal tax credits and various state incentives can reduce the effective purchase price substantially. The vehicle qualifies for the full $7,500 federal tax credit under current guidelines, making it one of the most affordable pathways to EV ownership without compromising capability or features.

BMW iX xDrive50: Luxury Innovation

BMW’s flagship iX xDrive50 represents the Bavarian manufacturer’s vision for premium electric mobility. The distinctive design language, featuring a massive illuminated kidney grille and sleek proportions, generates passionate responses from the automotive community. Dual motors produce 503 horsepower, propelling the 4,948-pound SUV to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds—impressive considering the vehicle’s substantial size and weight.

Range reaches 380 miles under EPA testing, among the longest available in the luxury segment. The 111-kWh battery pack integrates seamlessly into the platform, maintaining a low center of gravity despite the vehicle’s considerable bulk. Adaptive air suspension automatically adjusts damping characteristics based on road conditions and driving mode selection, delivering a refined ride quality that justifies the premium positioning.

Interior appointments emphasize technology integration and craftsmanship. The curved display incorporating digital instruments and infotainment spans the dashboard width, while the iDrive 8 operating system provides intuitive menu navigation. Premium leather, open-pore wood trim, and ambient lighting create an atmosphere of understated luxury. The spacious cabin accommodates five adults comfortably, with panoramic glass roof options extending the sense of space.

Advanced driver assistance systems position the iX as a technology leader. The standard safety suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking. Optional packages add semi-autonomous parking capabilities and enhanced collision avoidance. BMW’s remote services integration allows climate pre-conditioning and charging management through smartphone connectivity, convenient features for busy professionals.

However, the iX xDrive50 commands premium pricing approaching $100,000, positioning it alongside established luxury competitors like Mercedes-Benz and Audi. Ownership costs reflect this positioning, with service intervals extending to 12,000 miles and routine maintenance requiring specialized BMW technicians. For discerning buyers prioritizing refinement and technology over value proposition, the iX delivers compelling reasons to transition from traditional luxury sedans.

Ford Mustang Mach-E: Everyday Practicality

Ford’s Mustang Mach-E bridges the gap between performance and practicality, offering multiple powertrain configurations addressing diverse buyer needs. The standard rear-wheel-drive model produces 290 horsepower with 312 miles of EPA-estimated range, suitable for most daily driving patterns. The optional extended-range battery increases capacity to 312 miles, while the dual-motor all-wheel-drive variant delivers 480 horsepower and 312-mile range despite adding substantial weight.

The Mach-E’s spacious cabin provides genuine five-passenger capacity with practical cargo versatility. The 34.4 cubic feet of trunk space accommodates weekly grocery shopping, while the flat floor and low load height simplify loading awkward items. The available panoramic sunroof and premium audio systems create an engaging driving environment, particularly on longer journeys where comfort matters significantly.

Charging capabilities benefit from Ford’s BlueCruise technology and extensive Electrify America partnership, providing access to one of North America’s largest DC fast-charging networks. Standard 10.2-kW onboard charging enables overnight replenishment from 240-volt home installations, adding 30 miles of range per hour. This charging flexibility means most owners rarely visit public chargers except during extended road trips.

Pricing starts at approximately $42,000 for the standard rear-wheel-drive model, making it one of the most accessible premium EVs available. The federal tax credit application maintains the Mach-E’s value proposition, potentially reducing effective purchase prices to the mid-$30,000 range depending on individual tax circumstances. Real-world owners consistently praise the responsive steering, composed handling, and the ability to access the vehicle’s substantial performance without constant full-throttle driving.

Ford’s reliability reputation and established dealer network provide confidence in long-term ownership. Service requirements mirror traditional vehicles, with scheduled maintenance intervals and straightforward repair procedures. This familiarity appeals to buyers transitioning from combustion engines, removing psychological barriers to EV adoption.

Hyundai Ioniq 6: Efficiency Champion

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 establishes new efficiency benchmarks for the EV segment, delivering up to 140 MPGe combined—exceptional energy efficiency that translates to extended range and reduced charging frequency. The sleek sedan design minimizes aerodynamic drag, with a coefficient of 0.22 Cd representing class-leading performance. Dual-motor all-wheel-drive models produce 320 horsepower while maintaining remarkable efficiency, accelerating to 60 mph in approximately 5.1 seconds.

Range capabilities reach 361 miles with the extended-range battery, making the Ioniq 6 a compelling choice for drivers prioritizing efficiency over maximum performance. The 84-kWh battery pack integrates innovative thermal management systems maintaining optimal operating temperatures across diverse climates. Owners in cold regions report minimal range degradation compared to competitors, thanks to Hyundai’s advanced battery heating systems.

Charging speeds benefit from the Ioniq 6’s 11-kW onboard charger and 350-kW DC fast-charging capability. Charging from 10 to 80 percent requires approximately 18 minutes using optimal infrastructure, among the fastest in the segment. This rapid charging enables practical road trip capability without extended charging breaks.

The interior emphasizes modern minimalism with a large curved display incorporating digital instruments and infotainment. The layout prioritizes driver ergonomics, with intuitive controls and excellent visibility. Seating comfort accommodates five adults on short journeys, though rear legroom limitations become apparent on longer trips. The trunk provides 11.2 cubic feet of space, practical for daily requirements but limited compared to crossover alternatives.

Pricing positions the Ioniq 6 competitively, with base models starting around $42,000 before incentives. Hyundai’s aggressive warranty coverage, including an eight-year, 100,000-mile battery guarantee, provides ownership confidence. The brand’s rapidly improving dealer network and service infrastructure address historical concerns about EV servicing availability in some regions.

Porsche Taycan: Sports Car Reimagined

The Porsche Taycan represents the manufacturer’s commitment to electric performance, delivering superb handling dynamics and engineering excellence synonymous with the Porsche brand. The base Taycan produces 402 horsepower with 316 miles of EPA-estimated range, while the Taycan Turbo S variant delivers 938 horsepower in overboost mode, enabling 0-60 mph acceleration in 2.6 seconds. This performance level rivals dedicated supercars while maintaining practical four-passenger seating.

The 93-kWh battery pack utilizes 800-volt architecture, enabling exceptional charging speeds. The Taycan adds 200 miles of range in approximately 20 minutes using Porsche’s proprietary fast-charging infrastructure, a significant advantage for long-distance driving. The innovative battery thermal management system maintains performance consistency across multiple hard-driving sessions without performance degradation.

Interior craftsmanship reflects Porsche’s heritage, with premium leather, aluminum accents, and the iconic steering wheel design. The dual-screen infotainment system provides intuitive control over driving dynamics, charging settings, and vehicle functions. Panoramic glass roof options enhance the sense of space, while the low center of gravity delivers sports car handling characteristics despite the vehicle’s substantial 4,400-pound curb weight.

The Taycan’s suspension system integrates air springs and adaptive dampers, automatically adjusting stiffness based on driving mode and road conditions. Sport mode firms the suspension for spirited driving, while comfort mode prioritizes ride refinement for daily commuting. This adaptability allows the Taycan to excel in diverse scenarios, from track day events to luxury highway cruising.

Pricing reflects Porsche’s premium positioning, with base models exceeding $90,000 and fully equipped variants approaching $200,000. This positioning targets enthusiasts willing to prioritize performance and brand heritage over value optimization. For buyers seeking electric sports car thrills without supercar pricing, the Taycan delivers compelling justification for the investment.

Charging and Infrastructure Considerations

Successful EV ownership hinges on convenient charging access. Home charging installation represents the first priority for most buyers, with 240-volt Level 2 chargers adding 25-30 miles of range per charging hour. Installation costs typically range from $500-$2,000 depending on existing electrical infrastructure, with many utilities offering rebates reducing out-of-pocket expenses. Understanding the advantages of electric vehicles includes recognizing home charging convenience.

Public charging networks continue expanding rapidly, with Tesla’s Supercharger network opening to non-Tesla vehicles and competing networks like Electrify America, EVgo, and ChargePoint adding locations continually. The Alternative Fuels Data Center maintains comprehensive charging location databases, helping route planning for road trips. Most EV owners find public chargers unnecessary for daily commuting, reserving them for extended journeys exceeding home charging range.

DC fast charging represents a game-changer for road trip feasibility. Modern EVs capable of 150+ kW charging speeds can add 150-200 miles of range during 20-30 minute charging breaks. This performance approaches traditional refueling speed, eliminating the primary psychological barrier to EV adoption for many drivers. Planning longer journeys around charging locations requires minimal effort thanks to integrated navigation systems and mobile applications displaying real-time charger availability.

Battery degradation concerns have largely dissipated as manufacturers implement sophisticated thermal management and charging optimization systems. EPA fuel economy resources provide standardized range testing ensuring consistent comparison methodology. Real-world data demonstrates that most EVs retain 95 percent of original battery capacity after 100,000 miles, with projections suggesting 80-85 percent retention at 200,000 miles—sufficient for most ownership timelines.

Winter driving requires additional consideration, as cold temperatures reduce range by 20-40 percent depending on climate severity. Modern EVs employ battery pre-conditioning systems minimizing this degradation by warming battery packs during charging, ensuring optimal performance when driving begins. Owners in consistently cold climates should factor this reduced range into purchasing decisions, potentially opting for extended-range variants.

FAQ

What does Carly Gregg recommend for first-time EV buyers?

Carly Gregg emphasizes matching vehicle type to lifestyle requirements. The Ford Mustang Mach-E and Chevrolet Blazer EV provide excellent entry points, offering practical packaging, reasonable pricing, and proven reliability. First-time buyers should prioritize home charging availability and realistic daily range requirements before selecting specific models.

How do 2024 EV ranges compare to previous generations?

Modern EVs deliver 300+ mile ranges as standard, with many premium models exceeding 350 miles. This represents substantial improvement from 2015-2018 models, when 200-mile range represented the ceiling. Battery technology advances and improved thermal management systems enable these enhancements while maintaining competitive pricing.

Are electric vehicles practical for cold climates?

Yes, though with caveats. Modern EVs employ battery pre-conditioning systems minimizing winter range loss. Owners in consistently cold regions should select extended-range variants and ensure home charging availability. Real-world data demonstrates successful EV ownership across Canada and northern US states, though range planning requires additional consideration.

What is the total cost of ownership for electric vehicles?

EVs typically deliver lower total cost of ownership than comparable combustion vehicles, thanks to eliminated oil changes, reduced brake wear, and lower electricity costs versus gasoline. Federal tax credits, state incentives, and utility rebates further improve the value proposition. Car and Driver and other publications regularly publish comprehensive cost-of-ownership analyses comparing specific models.

How reliable are EV batteries long-term?

Battery technology has proven remarkably durable, with manufacturers offering 8-10 year, 100,000-150,000 mile warranties. Real-world data from early EV adopters demonstrates 95 percent capacity retention at 100,000 miles, exceeding manufacturer estimates. Battery degradation rates have stabilized, with most vehicles retaining usable capacity throughout typical ownership timelines.

Which EV offers the best long-distance driving capability?

The Tesla Model S Plaid, BMW iX xDrive50, and Hyundai Ioniq 6 excel in range and charging speed combinations. The Ioniq 6 prioritizes efficiency, while the Model S Plaid emphasizes performance. Choose based on whether efficiency or acceleration takes priority for your driving patterns.

What charging speeds should I expect at home?

Level 2 home charging (240-volt) adds 25-30 miles of range per hour, enabling overnight charging for most daily needs. Level 3 DC fast charging at public stations provides 200+ miles in 20-30 minutes, practical for road trips. Home installation costs typically range $500-$2,000 depending on existing electrical infrastructure.

Are there tax incentives available for 2024 EV purchases?

The federal government offers up to $7,500 tax credits for qualifying EV purchases, with many states providing additional incentives. Eligibility depends on vehicle price, buyer income, and manufacturing location. MotorTrend maintains current incentive databases, simplifying eligibility verification.