Tesla has so far been dominant in the innovation of electric cars and autopilot driving, with over 325,000 reservations placed for a car that is still set to debut in 2019. With the Model 3 starting at $35,000 and the Model S 70 at $71,200 the luxury electric car brand may face stiff competition from these other cars.
1. Nissan LEAF
Already the top-selling green car in US, Europe and Japan, the Nissan LEAF costs just above $20,000 and can drive up to five people 84 miles. Given its true value for money, Clapway predicts that Nissan has even more in store for the next few generations of their electric cars.
2. BMW I3
With many people dreaming of a BMW sports car, the I3 promises the best sports car and electric car experience. At $42,400, the car is a luxury, but coming from a trusted brand such as BMW, Tesla will be hard to outsell this big name. Equipped with a generator, the I3 can charge in four hours, and can have a range of up to 130 miles.
3. Merceds Benz Smart Electric Coupe
A compact green car, this model features a single-gear transmission and is a total steal starting at $12,490. Powered by a lithium-ion battery, Mercedes Benz had also stressed on its Tridion Safety Cell, ensuring safety during accidents.
4. Chevrolet Bolt
To be released in 2017, the Bolt is fully electric and comes with a 200 mile driving range. Costing only up to $30,000, this could be Chevy's most famous car yet since their old favorite classic family van.
5. Lucid Motors, a California start-up
Composed of former Tesla and Oracle employees, the company openly aims to outdo the Tesla Model S with its first creation. Executives have been hinting at least 900 horsepower engines and a range of 300 miles, made possibly by an 87kWh battery pack. According to Left Lane News, Lucid Motors promises "a new era of luxury mobility", and plans to sell about 20,000 cars starting in 2018.
