Mid-Size EV Battle

With the ever-increasing popularity of electric vehicles (EV's), the market is now being flooded with new models and trims promising to provide more affordability, comfort, and functionality. But how do these ‘new’ models compare in 2022?

In this newsletter, we will provide statistics, information, and analysis regarding four base trim crossover EV's in the North American market. Here, the aim is to highlight which ones excel, and which ones fall short of, the industry standard in different areas.

Statistics

The vehicles we are focusing on in this newsletter are all base trim levels of Model Year 2022 mid-size electric SUVs in the North American market. These are shown below:

• Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback Quattro Premium
• Ford Mustang Mach-E Select 4dr SUV
• Hyundai IONIQ 5 SE 4dr Crossover
• Kia EV6 Light
• Polestar 2 Long Range Single Motor

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

• Price (excluding Federal or State incentives)
• MPG-E
• Battery capacity
• Battery charging time at 240V (Approx. 7.4kW)
• Range (EPA Rating)
• Max power
• Max torque
• Headunit display size
• Instrument cluster display size
• Cargo volume
• Towing capacity

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 Hyundai IONIQ 5 offers the lowest cost per mile at $145.21, while the Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback offers the highest at $210.80. The reason for the success of the IONIQ 5 is down to it offering a much higher range than the other vehicles at a relatively similar price. The Audi offers the third highest range, but only at a price which is almost $7,000 greater than any of the other vehicles.

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 value for the consumer. Features are only considered optional for the trim in question, and the feature being available on a higher spec trim has been classed as N/A.

A key trend noticed here is the lack of feature fitment for the base spec Audi, whereas the base spec Ford, Hyundai, Kia, and Polestar models all feature much higher rates of optional or standard fitment of the features analyzed.