The 2018 Tesla Model 3 electric car had a rock star debut March 31st at the company’s design center in Hawthorne, California. Dramatic music, a light show, and an enthusiastic audience with mandatory iPhones added to the excitement. Three eclectic vehicles took center stage all with sleek designs highlighted by the front to rear glass roof. Tesla claims to have over 276,000 pre-orders for the Model 3 (as of this writing) which exceeds $2 billion.
Tesla upgraded the technology and drastically reduced the price, focusing on the industry wide goal of selling more electric options. After ten years on the drawing board, the car has a 215 mile range, goes from 0-60 mph in seconds, and includes support for an expanded high-speed Supercharger network. Some Model S and Model X features were retained, front and rear trunk storage, rear-wheel and all-wheel drive in particular. The landscape touchscreen was streamlined to 15 inches. This car is Tesla’s game changer and when it is released in late 2017, Tesla’s plan is to have doubled its current dealerships and service options.
Tesla has generated a buzz in the industry by proposing a $35,000 fully electric vehicle (EV) with high performance and no decrease in the driving experience. Presently, Tesla Models S and X retail for about $100,000 after tax incentives. Some automotive experts will remain cautiously optimistic until late 2017 when actual production of the Model 3 begins. But make no mistake, this car could be revolutionary. However, Tesla has plenty of equally determined EV competition. Here are 10 such cars competing in the space.
2017 Chevy Bolt
The General Motors’ 2017 Chevy Bolt, is scheduled to begin production in October, 2016. The electric compact will deliver a range of 200 miles after each charging and the price is below $30,000 after the federal rebate. The MSRP will actually be closer to $37,000, giving Tesla some wiggle room. GM’s pre-production Bolt model has a practical battery pack in the floor, similar to the Tesla Model S design. The car has spacious storage in the rear and a customizable infotainment system.
2016 Cadillac ELR
Cadillac’s 2016 ELR coupe continues the brand’s high design standards and MSRP starts at $65,000. Tesla’s price should provide the advantage in this particular case. The ELR’s electric design has an onboard generator powered by gasoline. This feature conveniently eliminates the range anxiety associated with long drives. Whether this compensates for the mere 40 miles per 5 hour charge remains to be seen.
2017 Volkswagen e-Golf
The 2017 Volkswagen e-Golf boasts a 100+ mile range and will arrive after the Telsa Model 3. Volkswagen has not yet competed with the more prestigious brands like Tesla. Instead the company is developing a 2019 e-Golf. These models will retain the look and design of its predecessors but expand to a 200 mile range. Volkswagen designers and developers are also eyeing the 2019-2020 market with the Budd-e’s promotion as the world’s most affordable long-range electric car. Volkswagen has been late to the game back in 2015 but still managed to have an excellent sales rate.
Chevy Spark Minicar
Another GM product, the Chevy Spark minicar also emphasizes its $25,995 MSRP, but design and nontraditional color options may not have Model 3’s appeal for certain buyers. The 2016 model has an 82 mile range, upgraded smooth look, high quality trim and advanced safety options. A 2017 model is not definite as GM concentrates on its Bolt and Volt as their electric cars for the future.
2016 Nissan Leaf
The 2016 Nissan Leaf (Leading environmentally-friendly affordable family car) is a compact 5 door hatchback, travels 107 miles on a full battery, and is recognized as the bestselling highway-capable all-electric car. Its retail price is over $30,000. It’s a good looking ride but the design is no competition for the Model S.
Ford Focus Electric
The Ford Focus Electric has an unassuming model body. The price is between $21,000 and 29,000, with a 100 mile range. While the vehicle is still in development at the Nevada plant, information leaked that Ford added the DC fast charging which is at 80% in 30 minutes. Production is scheduled for late 2017, however, it should not be on the radar with the Model 3, Focus Electric is considered to be a reliable work horse style vehicle. Ford has also been working to expand its number of Combined Charging Systems (CCS) in the United States and Europe.
BMW i3
BMW i3 is considered a highly innovative EV and the price starts at around $42,000, which Tesla should undercut. Its 2015 model has a range of 150 miles. The advanced technology incorporates a light weight body using carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) which results in high performance and efficient operation. CFRP is used in the production of race cars and BMW made a decision to incorporate the material. The i3 is a luxurious, smooth ride with smarter performance and roomy open interior and trunk space. Tesla has time to address brake energy regeneration to optimize battery energy and the DC Combo Fast Charger option.
2017 Chevy Volt LT
The 2017 Chevy Volt LT began production in February and is set for a nationwide roll-out in spring of 2016, giving it an advantage over the Model 3 schedule. This EV is rated as the best plug in and the price is comparable to Tesla’s, ranging from $34,000 to $39,000 for the VOLT Premier. A full redesign of the 2016 model was incorporated for the 2017 version. These include safety features and cruise control. California residents will receive a $1,500 Clean Vehicle rebate in addition to the Federal credit. Chevy dealers are accepting pre-orders.
2017 Fiat 500e
The 2017 Fiat 500e has been rated best for city driving and commuting. However, it falls behind the Model 3 in several areas. Currently, this car is only available at select dealers in California and Oregon. There are issues with interior head and leg room and the up to 24 hours required to fill the battery for a range of less than 90 miles. After 6 years of production, the 500 retains its Italian design and influence and the MSRP starts at $31,800.
Mitsubishi i-MiEv
The once popular Mitsubishi brand’s offering of a low-priced Mitsubishi i-MiEv is not currently in the same class as Tesla. It has been declared slow moving and a stiff ride. Its range is 62 miles, after a lengthy charging time. Its interior is considered bland and basic. In fact the 2016 was actually dropped from their lineup. What the future holds for Mitsubishi is uncertain in the EV market.
