More and more all-electric models are trickling into the pool of cars for sale in the UK, finding a family-friendly one and a reasonable price gets ever easier. Even better, advances in battery technology mean some have real-world ranges in excess of 200 miles and rapid charging capabilities.
To help you whittle down your potential candidates, here’s ten of the best electric cars that should fit into family life perfectly. We’ve chunky SUVs for those that value space, compact hatchbacks that are great in town and a practical estate, too.
- Skoda Enyaq iV
The Enyaq iV possesses an exceptional blend of value, useful functionality and space – with plenty of room for five people and a huge boot. It has an official range of up to 331 miles per charge, making it easier to live with on longer journeys.
- Volkswagen ID.3
The ID.3 is available with a range of batteries so you can balance range and cost to suit your needs. It has peppy performance, is enjoyable to drive and pretty comfortable. This Golf-sized hatchback has plenty of room for a regular family and looks great, too. We like it a lot.
- Volvo XC40 Recharge
Pick an XC40 Recharge and you’ll have a safe, plush and spacious SUV with helpful features such as integrated booster seats that fold out of the rear bench. Unlike some electric cars you don’t even lose much boot space compared to the petrol XC40 – in fact you gain more of it in the front where the engine used to be. It’s not cheap, mind.
- Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 is Britain’s best-selling electric car and for good reason . It offers huge performance, long driving ranges, and access to what is still the best charging network. Many love the simple interior, too.
- Kia Soul EV
If you want something distinctive yet still practical, the Kia Soul is well worth a look. You get a useful 280-mile driving range from the 64kWh battery version and impressive acceleration, too. However, the boot won’t be big enough for some.
- MG 5 EV
If you need to lug bulky items like a pram or buggy, the MG 5 EV could be the solution thanks to a usefully large 464 litre boot . A usefully long range and surprisingly sprightly performance are also in its favour, as is the price.
- Citroen e-C4
Citroen has a long history of making comfortable cars, and the e-C4 lives up to the legend. It absorbs bumps better than most rivals, perfect for tatty urban roads on the school run or undulating country roads. Meanwhile, the coupe roofline adds a dash of style.
- Renault Zoe E-Tech
The Zoe is a thoroughly practical small car that packs four doors and a useful boot into a compact package. It’s not quite as stylish as a Fiat 500 Electric, but it does have a more impressive 245 official range.
- BMW i3
A narrow body, tight turning circle and punchy performance makes the i3 a joy around town. Impressively given its compact size, there is still plenty of space inside. A small boot, modest range and firm ride are the downsides.
- Peugeot e-2008
The e-2008 and Citroen e-C4 share underpinnings, with the former a more traditional looking SUV. It’s comfortable and has peppy engines, making it at home on long drives. A word of warning – not everyone will get on with the tiny, squared-off steering wheel and the potentially compromised driving position – both steadfast Peugeot signatures now.
