Electric Vehicles (EVs) are rapidly becoming a popular choice for consumers due to increasing government pressure for everyone to reduce their carbon footprint and protect the environment we live in. But at a time when EVs are still considered ‘expensive’ in comparison to a similar ICE vehicle, which affordable EV provides the best value, comfort, and functionality for consumers?

In this newsletter, we will provide statistics, information and analysis regarding four of the more affordable Crossover EVs in the North American market, with the aim of highlighting which ones excel and which ones fall short of the industry standard in various areas.

Statistics

The vehicles we are focusing on in this newsletter are all base trim levels of popular mid-size electric SUVs in the North American market. These are shown below:

• Ford Mustang Mach-E Select 4dr
• Tesla Model Y Long Range
• Volkswagen ID.4 Pro 4dr
• Chevrolet Bolt EUV LT

These vehicles will be compared based on vehicle specifications that are significant factors for consumers when deciding which EV to buy, these are shown below:

• Price (excluding Federal or State incentives)
• Battery Capacity
• Battery Charging Time at 240 V (Approx. 7.4 kW)
• Battery Motor Miles per Charge (EPA Rating)
• Max Power
• Head-unit Display Size
• Instrument Cluster Display Size
• Cargo Volume
• MPG-E

The following chart showcases the data comparison for these features, please use the drop-down menu to select which statistic to view.

Best Value Relative to Range

Another key statistic that is valuable to customers is the relative range they are getting for the cost of buying the car, what we refer to as the cost per mile of range. Below, the vehicles in question are shown along with their cost per mile value.

The key takeaway from this chart is that the Bolt EUV is offering the best cost per mile (before factoring in incentives). While having a very similar range to both the Volkswagen ID.4 and Ford Mach-E, the relatively low price of the Bolt EUV is what sets it apart from the rest. Even though the Tesla Model Y has significantly more range than the other three vehicles, its high price means it only places second in this comparison.

Feature Fitment

The fitment strategy of key features is also important for the consumer when evaluating which EV to choose, especially in terms of comfort, convenience, and driver assistance. The features listed below have been chosen in this analysis based on their significance to consumers:

• Head-up Display
• Navigation System
• Wireless Charging
• Premium Audio Speakers
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Automatic Parking Assist
• Heated Drivers Seat
• Ventilated Drivers Seat
• Keyless Entry
• Moonroof / Sunroof

Using the heatmap chart below, we can see how the fitment strategy of each vehicle varies, and which one provides the most to the consumer. Features are only considered optional for the trim in question, and the feature being avauilable on a higher spec trim will class as N/A.

A common trend amongst EVs is a lack of optional extras – with fitment for key features being either standard or linked to specific trim levels.