Have you had your environmental awakening and fancy getting behind the wheel of an electric car?
If you've answered yes, and I assume you have as you're reading this blog, then Tesla will probably be one of the first electric car brands to come to mind.
But you might not want a Tesla for one reason or another. Now, another question arises: What Tesla alternatives are out there?
Don't worry, we've got the answer. In this blog, leasing experts Nationwide Vehicle Contracts explore the best five Tesla alternatives available in the UK.
We discuss:
If you're after a premium EV, Polestar is the next in line to Tesla. The Swedish brand, which used to operate under Volvo, combines luxury cars with breathtaking electric performance.
We'd recommend a Polestar if you're looking to drive in style and make an impression. Their vehicles not only have a unique exterior style but also some of the finest interiors on the market.
Blending signature minimalist Scandinavian design with premium materials, cars like the Polestar 2 have made a seriously good impression. In the cabin, you'll find ergonomic seats, touchscreen displays, and sustainable upholstery. Its zinc-coloured Nappa leather seats are produced to ensure they are traceable, chrome-free, and adhere to strict animal welfare standards.
Polestar cars also come with breath-taking performance, with the Polestar 4 shooting from 0 to 62mph in just 3.8 seconds, making it the fastest Polestar ever produced,
Although Audi is renowned for its premium petrol and diesel engines, but its electric range is not to be sniffed at. Their approach to EVs is more than just about creating electric versions of their existing models; they want to redefine what a luxury EV is like.
Their e-tron range includes various models, from sleek SUVs like the Audi Q4 e-tron to high-performance electric sports cars like the Audi e-tron GT Saloon.
Let's talk about the e-tron GT Saloon for a minute. It combines performance, luxury, and one of the best exterior designs on the market. In range-topping form, it can accelerate from 0 to 62mph in just 3.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 155mph! In short, it's absolutely worth it if you can afford it.
All Audi e-tron cars have a maximum range pushing the 300-mile mark and offer rapid charging capabilities.
You're probably wondering why Kia is on this list. However, the South Korean brand has been making serious moves in the EV market in recent years. They are no longer just a budget car brand; they are a great option for drivers looking for a reliable and tech-laden electric car.
What sets them apart from brands like Tesla, Audi, and Polestar is that Kia electric cars are accessible to everyone. Their EVs are packed full of features, offer superb range, and come with their whopping seven-year warranty.
Their Kia Niro EV ranks consistently among the best electric family cars on the market, and their EV6 is one of the most exciting electric crossovers on the market.
The EV6 has a futuristic interior, a superb interior with two 12-inch screens, and a 77.4kWh battery that can provide up to 328 miles of range.
Hyundai has been a leader in the shift towards electric mobility, offering a range of EVs that cater to various needs and lifestyles. On a similar trajectory to Kia, Hyundai electric cars are ideal for those looking to budget on their EV and don't want to splash out on a Tesla.
Their approach to EVs is all about versatility and practicality. Whether you need a compact car like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 or a family SUV like the Hyundai Kona Electric, there's an electric model to suit you.
It's these two that stand out in their electric range. The Ioniq 5 has a unique design and a brilliant powertrain, offering up to 300 miles on a single charge. You'll also be able to exceed 300 miles in the Kona Electric while having plenty of space for the whole family.
When it comes to electric cars in the UK, BYD is one of the new kids on the block. It might not be as well-known as brands like Tesla, but they are quickly making a name for themselves.
One of the largest EV manufacturers globally, BYD is a Chinese brand with a wealth of experience and innovation.
All their cars are designed to be affordable, efficient, and packed with the latest technology. For a fraction of the price, their batteries rival those of Tesla, and they have gained a superb reputation.
They currently offer three cars for the UK market: the BYD Dolphin, Atto 3, and Seal. For those looking for a Tesla rival, we'd recommend the Seal saloon car, but it's the Dolphin that stands out.
An affordable electric hatchback, it's perfect for small families looking to go green. It combines a 60kWh battery with a 204hp electric motor to return up to 265 miles of range, while also featuring an interior with a massive touchscreen display and loads of driver assistance systems.
The EV market is expanding rapidly, and there's never been a better time to explore your options. Yes, Tesla is one of the go-to names in the sector, but there are some fantastic rivals out there.
Whether you're drawn to the sleek design of Polestar, the luxury of Audi's e-tron range, the reliability of Kia and Hyundai, or the innovation of BYD, there's an EV out there that's perfect for you.
Looking for your next electric car? Nationwide Vehicle Contracts is one of the UK's largest EV leasing brokers, offering a range of deals to suit your needs.
For more, call us on 0345 811 9595 or check out our latest electric lease deals.
