Cheapest EVs to buy right now
Electric vehicles aren’t as expensive as they used to be several decades ago. Due to the advancement in battery technology, economics of scale and a pricing war, manufacturers have managed to drive down overall prices.
There are several EVs that are within reach of the average Joe but what are the cheapest ones that you can buy today? Currently, there are three affordable electric cars that are priced around the RM100,000 mark.
Neta V
It’s the most affordable EV in the market as it is priced slightly under RM100,000 depending on the availble promotion. The Neta V is a crossover with a lot to offer. Power comes from a 70kW electric motor, which isn’t anything groundbreaking but is good enough to putter around town. Electricity is supplied via the 38.54kWh battery pack offers a range of about 380km.
Measuring 4,070mm long and 1,540mm high, the Neta V is a compact vehicle that offers decent luggage space. For the interior, the car features a minimalist layout with a large 14.6-inch screen used to provide the necessary information and controls. A smaller screen above the dashboard is used to display A/C controls and other vehicle information.
HEPT 3.0 thermostatic battery management system ensures that the battery pack operates within the optimal thermal window. The system uses liquid cooling to keep the temperature below 45 degrees Celcius. Conversely, in low temperature environments, the same system warms up the pack to ensure it can operate efficiently.
BYD Dolphin
The BYD Dolphin is a compact hatchback with a lot to offer consumers who want a simple runabout vehicle. The Dynamic Standard variant, which is the cheaper of the two available versions, is priced at RM100,530. It is powered by a 70kW electric motor that receives energy via a 44.9kWh battery pack.
In terms of dimensions, the Dolphin measures 4,290mm long and 1,570mm high making it slightly taller and longer than the Neta V. Inside, the car features a minimalist look with a large display screen taking up most of the centre console, which is used to acces various functions.
BYD says the car offers a range of 410km on a single charge, but what sets the Dolphin apart from other EVs is its use of a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery pack. It is supposed to be safer, more efficient and durable compared to conventional batteries. If damaged or penetrated, the LFP won’t explode or catch fire, which is a good thing.
MG4 EV
Morris Garages, a name we haven’t heard in several decades, has launched an affordable EV that is meant to entice consumers to ditch their ICE vehicles and join the electric revolution. Priced at RM103,999, the MG4 EV Standard features a powerful 125kW motor that allows it to sprint from 0-100km/h in just 7.5 seconds.
Battery pack capacity is rated at 51kWh, which offers a range of 350km on a single charge. Measuring 4,287mm long and 1,504mm high, it’s about the same size as the Dolphin. Inside, it offers a compact yet functional centre console. The 10.25-inch colour touchscreen display sits above the air vents yet looks like they are integrated as a single unit.
The switchgear for the various driving modes is located just below but within reach. Here, you can turn the dial to select drive, reverse or park. Everything is conveniently laid out and within reach of the driver. On paper, the MG4 EV seems to be the fastest of the three cars but performance isn’t everything. Each vehicle has its advantages and the one that suits you depends on your needs and wants.
