Trial and error. This is usually the process of technological innovation. So it’s no surprise that the EV segment has seen its fair share of errors, too. Here are some of the world’s worst electric cars.
Certain car brands
have been in the auto manufacturing business a long time. This translates into a depth of knowledge and experience that most startups in an emerging market simply lack. For this reason, you most likely won’t recognize the companies behind these failed attempts at an electric vehicle. The worst electric cars of yesteryears
The CitiCar dates back to the first oil crisis of the 1970s. Manufacturers were attempting to make their vehicles more efficient and effective. As HotCars
puts it, this electric car was certainly ahead of its time. By over 20 years, in fact. CitiCar replaced the combustion engine with an electric motor and switched out fuel for batteries. Its range was a mere 30 miles and the triangular design repelled potential buyers.
Brazil attempted its own copy of the CitiCar, but it never saw full production. The Gurgel Itaipu E150 had a top speed of 20 mph and 50 miles of range. The project was decidedly abandoned even though it was an interesting alternative vehicle at the time.
What the G-Wiz lacked in storage space and safety features, it greatly made up for with its funny name. Its lightweight construction was dangerous yet, surprisingly road legal. The cheap batteries provided enough range for city driving but nothing more.
The Sinclair C5 is also amongst the worst electric cars. Its futuristic design was conceived in the 1980s, and that was about as exciting as it got. It was slow and actually had a pedal-assist function. Owners certainly weren’t traveling very far with 20 miles of range.
The worst electric cars of recent years
Fast forward a few decades and you’ll find that the technology didn’t improve much with the Smart ED. This first iteration of the Smart EV had 70 miles of range. The mini-car was capable of highway speeds, if drivers were willing to compromise on distance traveled.
The Corbin Sparrow is one of the worst electric cars based on design alone. Its Dr. Seuss-esque shape is reminiscent of a mobility scooter, and not so much a car. This one-seater has a range of 60 miles and is still being built today.
The Peel P50 EV is a remanufactured classic. While the original is a collector’s item, the modern version is available with an electric motor. Production is limited since they are made by hand, but it still sports the suicide doors.
One of the worst electric cars from a production practices standpoint is the Changli. The manufacturer has been negligent on the environmental and human rights front. Buyers should consider the company’s history before making this inexpensive purchase. It’s no wonder this off-brand, small EV has weaseled its way into various markets around the world, including the U.S.
MORE: How to Make Sure Electric Cars Are Greener
The best insurance for electric cars
If you’re shopping for an EV, you may want to stay away from the worst electric cars and find a more reputable vehicle. With many automakers now competing in the EV segment, there are several options to choose from.
With many insurance carriers to choose from, Jerry
can help you find the best coverage at the best price. Download the car super app
and answer a few questions to receive quotes instantly. Once you’ve made your selection, Jerry’s experienced team of agents will even assist you in canceling your old policy. 
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