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Best Cheap EVs under $40,000
Focuses on low entry price first, then favors efficiency and meaningful daily range over premium features.
Methodology
Budget lists are price-led. A cheap EV only ranks well if its range and efficiency are still credible.
Range weight
20%
Price weight
45%
Efficiency weight
20%
Charge weight
5%
#1
Chevrolet
Chevrolet Bolt EV
EPA Range
259 mi
Base Price
$26,500
Charge Speed
55 kW
Efficiency
3.9 mi/kWh
Why it ranked
Composite score: 72 / 100
- Strong on $26,500 price.
- Strong on 259 mi range.
- Charging speed is less competitive than the category leaders.
Pros
- • $26,500 price
- • 259 mi range
Trade-off
Charging speed is less competitive than the category leaders.
#2
Aptera
Aptera Launch Ed.
EPA Range
400 mi
Base Price
$33,200
Charge Speed
50 kW
Efficiency
10 mi/kWh
Why it ranked
Composite score: 69 / 100
- Strong on $33,200 price.
- Strong on 400 mi range.
- Charging speed is less competitive than the category leaders.
Pros
- • $33,200 price
- • 400 mi range
Trade-off
Charging speed is less competitive than the category leaders.
#3
Chevrolet
Chevrolet Bolt EUV
EPA Range
247 mi
Base Price
$27,800
Charge Speed
55 kW
Efficiency
3.7 mi/kWh
Why it ranked
Composite score: 68 / 100
- Strong on $27,800 price.
- Strong on 247 mi range.
- Charging speed is less competitive than the category leaders.
Pros
- • $27,800 price
- • 247 mi range
Trade-off
Charging speed is less competitive than the category leaders.
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