Not All EVs Are Created Equal: Which Ones Are the Most Efficient?

Carlos Kirby
· 4 min read
The auto industry has come a long way with fuel economy. From combustion engines to hybrids,
fully electric cars
have now arrived. But how efficient are they really?
Just like combustion engines vary in fuel efficiency,
electric vehicles
vary as well. Here, we will review the most efficient EVs according to
InsideEVs
, and what impacts their efficiency.
Tesla ranks in the top two for the most efficient electric vehicles.

How do we rate the most efficient EVs?

The EPA uses a measurement called Miles Per Gallon Equivalent (MPGe) to rate an electric vehicle. The EPA uses this label to compare how efficient an electric car is in relation to its combustion-engine counterpart. For instance, 33.7-kWh equates to one gallon of gasoline.
With that in mind, the MPGe does not measure other efficiencies that EVs provide. EVs are more efficient than gas-powered cars since they have few moving parts and thus have fewer maintenance needs. Some also have the benefit of regenerative braking, which allows them to recharge as they break.
That means that EVs are more efficient than gasoline cars in general, but the differences vary depending on what EV you choose. InsideEvs took a look at how EVs stack up against each other in electric power saving.
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The 2021 entry-level Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus is the most efficient EV

The Tesla Model 3 is among the best electric vehicles in the auto industry. It boasts of practicality, performance, high-tech, and range. Behind the desirable styling is a sophisticated, electric drivetrain that brings it to this list.
With a combined EPA rating of 142, the Tesla Model 3 tops the list for the most efficient EVs. It achieves an impressive MPGe of 150 in the city and 133 on the highway.
This base model comes with a 263-mile range on a single charge. On longer trips, the convenience of having a supercharger network makes recharging faster and easier for this model.

The 2021 Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD makes it to the second position

Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD is an impressive electric sedan. It is fast, powerful, and stylish.
The upgraded model gives you 353 miles of range and also boasts a combined MPGe rating of 134. Its highway MPGe rating is 127, while the city MPGe gets a rating of 141.
The difference with the entry model comes due to more weight that emanates from a bigger battery and the additional front motor. The standard all-wheel drive powertrain means that it can handle whatever road conditions. Additionally, this top-of-the-line model delivers performance, with a 0-60 MPH time of 5.1 seconds.
The Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD gives you 450-hp along with 471 pounds-feet of torque. That makes it an excellent choice for performance enthusiasts who love efficient electric cars.

Third on the list is the Hyundai Ioniq Electric

MORE: The Hyundai Ioniq 5 Will Outperform Its Rivals in Fast-Charging
The 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Electric is another efficient electric vehicle. This four-door hatchback design is one of the most desirable electric cars on the market. The Electric is a fully electric version of the Ioniq model but also offers plug-in hybrid models.
The electric version has a combined EPA rating of 133. The city MPGe gets a rating of 145 while its highway MPGe gets 121. When fully charged, the Ioniq gives you 170 miles range. That is enough for drivers who need just enough power for the daily commute to and from work.
Although the Hyundai Ioniq Electric is among efficient EVs, it has a downside. It is not a large car and may not be appropriate for long drives, especially for the rear passengers. It also comes with a relatively smaller battery rated at 38.3 kWh, which may not be enough for long road trips.
Efficient EVs are the future of the automobile industry. They have more advantages compared to their fossil fuel counterparts. While not all EVs are equal, these three are among the most efficient on the market.
If you're looking for a great commuter car that saves on fuel, then get yourself any of the above. Also, remember to protect your investment with insurance coverage. It only takes a few minutes to sign up with
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