Small electric cars: models, benefits and buying tips
Looking for a versatile car for everyday use? Compact electric cars are ideal for the city. Comparis gives a model overview and buying tips.
30.07.2024
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1. Compact electric cars: popular models
Many manufacturers of electric cars focus on compact car models. Discover some of the current, most popular small electric cars:
2. Compact electric cars: what’s unique about these vehicles?
Driving a small electric car is environmentally friendly, quiet and efficient. It also allows you to enjoy the features of a compact vehicle at the same time.
Compactness and manoeuvrability
A major advantage of small electric cars is their compactness. Models like the VW e-up!, the Honda e or the Smart EQ Fortwo are small and manoeuvrable. From tight parking spaces to narrow streets: these are no problem for compact cars.
Easy and convenient
Compact cars are known for their ease of use. Plus: despite their smaller size, they are often surprisingly spacious and modern.
Small electric vehicles such as the Fiat 500 Electric, the VW ID.3, the BMW i3 or the Mini Electric also offer a high level of comfort – almost like large models. They impress with comfortable seats, advanced air conditioning, an infotainment system and a balanced driving style.
Efficient and powerful
Small electric cars combine the efficiency and environmental friendliness of an electric car with the practical advantages of a compact car. Many models offer a good range and short charging times at charging stations. This makes them a good choice for everyday life in the city.
3. What should I bear in mind when buying a compact electric car?
Some differences exist between small electric cars: for example, in terms of equipment, price, energy consumption and range.
Ask these questions before buying:
Electric vehicles are more energy efficient than petrol or diesel cars. However, there are also differences in energy consumption when it comes to compact electric cars. Pay attention to the manufacturer’s instructions and consumer tests.
Example consumption according to the WLTP test procedure:
Peugeot E-208: 14.5–16.1kWh per 100km
Opel Corsa-e: 14.6–15.8kWh per 100km
Hyundai Kona Electric: 14.8kWh per 100km
If you tend to drive longer distances, depending on the model you may also be well served by a small electric car. Pay attention to the technical data. Many models have long ranges and are also suitable for longer trips. For example, the Renault Zoe can cover up to 395 kilometres, the Fiat 600e 409 kilometres and the Kia E-Scout an impressive 452 kilometres.
Compact electric cars offer enough space for daily shopping and transporting small items. If you need more space, it’s worth taking a look at electric station wagons, electric all-wheel-drive cars and electric SUVs.
4. Are compact electric cars cheap?
Small electric cars are comparatively inexpensive. The Citroen C-Zero, for example, is available second-hand for a few thousand francs. New microcars such as the Opel Rocks, the Jiayuan EV or the Citroen AMI are available from around 10,000 francs.
Slightly more spacious compact cars cost around 13,000 francs. For new cars, the Dacia Spring, Renault Twingo Electric, the Fiat 500 Electric and the VW e-up! are among the cheapest models available.
Are you looking for a small electric car specifically for seniors? Then it’s worth taking a look at the Fulu – perhaps the cheapest electric car in the world.
Insurance for a compact electric car
Car insurance for small electric cars is usually cheaper than policies for larger electric vehicles or combustion engines. Tip: you can compare premiums and benefits with Comparis and in some cases save a substantial amount of money.
This article was first published on 30.07.2024
