Auto manufacturers release new models each year, and electric options often see updates related to range and other specs. However, some manufacturers launch brand new models that pique the interest of prospective buyers.
Numerous auto media sites have listed the upcoming electric cars that consumers can expect in the future. However, the most exciting models might be:
- Ford F-150 Lightning
- Polestar 3
- Tesla Cybertruck
- Rivian R1S
- GMC Hummer EV Pickup
While these models weren’t particularly called out by the auto media, they were among the models that are expected to launch. These models are exciting because they each represent something new and unique to buyers who might be eyeing the electric market.
Ford F-150 Lightning
The Ford F-Series is the top-selling vehicle in the country. Even during a chip shortage that hit Ford and other manufacturers hard, the F-Series still didn’t stop selling. Consumers in some areas might have added their name to a wait list, though.
Trucks are not known for their fuel efficiency. In fact, many tend to be gas guzzlers. However, when the pump is traded for the plug, the efficiency of the model has the potential to surge.
The Ford F-150 Lightning is now available for a base price of $39,974. The Lightning is offered in the Pro, XLT ($52,974), Lariat ($67,474), and Platinum ($90,874). The Lightning has an estimated range of 230 miles, although some models offer extended range batteries.
For consumers who want a half-ton pickup for towing, the electric Lightning can tow between 7,700 and 10,000 pounds.
Polestar 3
The Polestar 1 is a luxury hybrid model that might be marketed more for collectors. The Polestar 2 is a mid-priced electric model that is priced at $45,900. What is Polestar 3?
The Polestar 3 will be an electric sports utility vehicle, and, according to MotorTrend production is slated to begin in 2022 or early 2023. The model will offer an autonomous driving option. The site reports that the Polestar will let drivers be hands-free on the highway, noting that they won’t have to have their hands on the wheel, their feet on the gas/brakes or even focus their eyes on the road.
Car and Driver reported that the Polestar 3 will be built in the U.S. Pricing, range and other specs have not yet been announced.
Tesla Cybertruck
Tesla’s Cybertruck looks straight out of the future. The site includes a rendering of the seemingly space-age truck and shows its geometric edged design and light strip headlights. Tesla explains on its site that the truck was built for durability and to maximize the protection of passengers. The Cybertruck also features armored glass.
Tesla’s Cybertruck also is designed for work; the Cybertruck can tow more than 14,000 pounds. It also provides more than 100 cubic feet of external storage space. As for energy efficiency, consumers who are looking for a truck that can drive an extensive distance on full charge might consider the Cybertruck. It offers an estimated range of 500 miles.
Kelley Blue Book notes, though, that production isn’t slated until 2023 and that the base price of the truck will be $39,900 (single motor, rear-wheel drive); the price increases for a Dual Motor all wheel drive ($49,900). The highest priced option is the Tri-Motor for $69,900.
Rivian R1S
The Rivian R1S is an electric full-sized SUV. The R1S is already available for consumers to purchase. The R1S has a base price of $70,000 and offers an estimated range of 316 miles.
The Rivian R1S might be appealing to those who want to take their EV off-roading; this model was designed for highways and the rough terrain, too. The R1S can tow up to 7,700 pounds. The model is offered with a seat capacity of either five or seven passengers.
GMC Hummer EV Pickup
GMC is focused on the electric market and the manufacturer now officers a Hummer EV Pickup and an SUV model, too. The Hummer EV has a base price of $108,700 and offers an estimated range of 350 miles.
With the Hummer EV Pickup, drivers can head off-road, too. In addition, the pickup has space for up to five.
What Other New Electric Vehicles Can Consumers Expect in the Future?
The options for EV trucks might be more expansive with the release of the Tesla Cybertruck, however, there are many other new electric models that are eliciting excitement beyond the SUVs and trucks from manufacturers.
Car and Driver highlighted a few anticipated models. One model that is listed as a ‘maybe’ is the Buick Electra. A different Car and Driver article noted it as the ‘2024 Buick Electra.’ That article explained that nothing has been confirmed. The car could be simply a concept.
The Bollinger B1/B2 also has graced a number of auto publications’ lists of anticipated electric vehicles. However, Bollinger Motors now includes a note on its site that the B1/B2 is no longer an option. Instead, the company is focused on the commercial market.
What are the Best Electric Vehicles?
Buyers interested in swapping out their standard car for electric might wonder about their options. What is the best electric vehicle?
The best electric vehicle might depend on who is ranking the vehicles. Every publication might have their own pick, and their own reasons behind their top pick. CNET offers its own choices of the best electric vehicles, and the publication divided up its list to include different categories.
CNET’s pick for best electric small car was the Polestar 2. For the best midsize electric car, CNET chose the Hyundai Ioniq 5. The 2022 Porsche Taycan was CNET’s choice for the best large electric car. The 2022 Hyundai Kona took the top spot for most affordable.
For consumers, the best electric car or vehicle (for those who want a truck or SUV) could be linked to the price tag or even the range. Some buyers might want the vehicle that offers the most passenger space, but others might want the most modern option. Others are brand loyal, and this could factor into the decision, too.
What is the Least Expensive Electric Vehicle for 2022?
Buyers on the hunt for the least expensive electric vehicle might look only at the base price. These buyers might want the cheapest option; they might not focus on range or any other details. They want electric, and they want it affordably!
What’s the least expensive electric model for 2022? MotorTrend compiled the list of the least expensive options. The Nissan Leaf S 40 kW is the least expensive model for 2022 with a base price of $28,365. The Leaf can actually be even more affordable, though, if tax credits are considered.
The Leaf doesn’t have an expansive range; it has an estimated range of 226 miles. However, for those who only drive around the city, it could still be a good option. The model can fit up to five people.
What is the Electric Model with the Longest Range?
For some car buyers, the range of an electric model might be the top factor in the buying decision. According to Newsweek, the Lucid Air Dream offers the longest range of 2022 models. The Lucid Air Dream offers an estimated range of 520 miles and has a base price of $169,000.
Explore Different Electric Models in 3D and Augmented Reality
Buyers who are shopping for their electric vehicle options can visit RelayCars to explore different makes and models. With RelayCars, shoppers can search from an extensive inventory of models and explore them with immersive tools.
RelayCars offers shoppers the option to preview a vehicle on screen via a 3D model of the vehicle or to use augmented reality. With the 3D model, users can turn the photo of the vehicle around and look at the vehicle from different angles. RelayCars doesn’t offer just a flat photo, instead users are encouraged to engage with the 3D vehicle models. Use the mouse or a fingertip to rotate a vehicle.
RelayCars also lets users preview a vehicle model using the power of augmented reality. The camera of a smartphone or tablet becomes a unique experience that transforms any environment into an augmented reality showroom. The user can capture their garage, basement space or anywhere with their camera and drop a to-scale image of the vehicle into that space.
The augmented reality experience lets users explore the vehicle by walking around it. This provides a similar walk-around experience as an in-person visit to a dealership.
Buyers can use these tools to better understand their favorite electric models. In addition, RelayCars also provides pricing information about vehicles, too. Buyers can use RelayCars as a one-stop shop for their car buying experience.
The site is constantly updating its inventory of vehicles to include more models for visitors. Visitors can download the RelayCars app for free or search inventory online. There is no limit to the number of vehicles users can explore; they can use RelayCars to explore and research all their options. They can even use the site to explore car models they didn’t know even existed.
What electric options are on RelayCars? Download the app or visit the site to learn more!