Plug me in – finding the right electric car for your family

Published on 3 October, 2022

Overview

The Budget has again proved to us that the Government wants us to switch to electric.

So if you are now seriously thinking of buying a new battery electric vehicle (BEV), here are some models I think are worth considering.

Prices are after grants and rebates have been deducted, so the quoted price is what you see and pay.

Prices listed are for range-starter models which can make some cars appear more expensive than others, as they have a higher specification to begin with.

It is also important to be aware that the number of kilometres a car can officially drive on one charge is more notional than achievable.

Battery size, individual driving styles, speed, number of passengers, weather conditions all impact on consumption, so a quoted range of 500km could in reality be 50km-100km
lower. In no particular order, here are my top picks, with emphasis placed heavily on family use.

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Renault Zoe

This is a durable small hatchback costing from €30,295. A handy run-around, it is one of the least expensive EVs on the market. Wwith a 52kWh capacity, it allows you to drive up to a claimed 377km. Ideal for commutes and urban driving.

MG ZS crossover

Compact family SUV-type made in China. The larger 72.6 kWh battery manages a claimed 440km electric range. The big plus is price. At €34,495 it is one of the best value electric cars around. The MG brand is relatively new to market so there may be some reluctance to buy it rather than a better-known brand. But it is well equipped and taxi drivers are buying them – always a good sign.

Volvo XC40 Recharge

Amidsize family crossover. From €53,980, with a 418km range. Lots of innovative touches in a big, comfortable cabin; massively loaded with safety elements. Rewarding in terms of drive too (0-100kmh in 4.9secs, 408hp).

Polestar 2, 5dr liftback
From €51,135: Range is up to 551km. This is a relatively new brand. It’s quite different to many others on the market. Lots of room for the family and good to drive; performance is a major attraction. For something different, it’s worth a look.

Hyundai IONIQ5

Mid-market family crossover. From €39,995. This multi-award winner competes vibrantly with rivals on entry price. Styling is exceptional. Voted World Car of the Year 2022. Claimed range of up to 507km. Stunning looks, an excellent cabin and already a bit of a benchmark for BEVs.

KIA EV6

Family crossover from €52,000. It’s a close relation of the Hyundai IONIQ 5 so the pedigree is good. Lots of room and outstanding looks. Depending on battery, range can go as high as a claimed 528kms. You can charge from 10pc battery to 80pc in only 18 minutes. Eye-catching EV.

Nissan LEAF

Much-loved small hatchback that has been around for a long time. At €28,145 it claims to be the cheapest on the market. But range is small at 270km (you’d do really well to get 200km) for the small 40kWh battery. Up to 385km is claimed on the 62kWh battery, but you pay more. It’s tried and trusted but range is a big challenge.

Skoda ENYAQ

Another family crossover. From €49,370. Impressive room and styling. Single-charge range of around 510km. Unlike some, it gives a really accurate indication of how much energy is left in the battery. Stylish and well established at this stage.

Tesla Model 3

Executive-type saloon. From €56,978, claims 602km range. In many ways this is the mid-size BEV the rivals have to beat as Tesla continue to set a high pace. Simple design, clean-line interior, good room and a decent drive.

Volkswagen ID.4

From €49,906 and range up to 514kms claimed. VW has also set a rattling pace with the introduction of several electric models. The ID.4 crossover is their big seller, though the smaller ID.3 is popular too. The ID.4 has a large cabin and is highly rated by families. It’s at, or near, the top of EV market sales. Roomy, comfortable and practical.

And then there is the dream machine...

Mercedes EQS

This luxury SUV is not the best value car on the market but for owners of large luxury saloons it is the vehicle that banishes range anxiety. It can cover up to a claimed 761km. You will confidently cover 650km.

Prices start from €132,465 (includes delivery and three-year service plan) but in reality anyone buying this will probably end up spending thousands more to personally kit out the car of their dreams.