As electric cars gain popularity, manufacturers are developing more models to meet the growing demand. Electric cars tend to have a higher price tag when compared to petrol cars. This is mainly due to the price of battery technology. Electric vehicles rely on advanced lithium-ion batteries, which are expensive to produce.
There has been a call for more affordable electric options available, and carmakers are coming through! Two Chinese rivals, BYD and MG have recently released the cheapest models in their lineup: the BYD Dolphin and MG4, both under $40,000.
BYD Dolphin
The BYD Dolphin will be the cheapest electric car in Australia, with a price-tag of $38,990 before on-road costs.
It will come in three model grades including Dynamic, Premium and Sport. The dynamic model features a 340km claimed driving range and 0-100km/h acceleration in under 12.3 seconds.
The car comes equipped with everything you'd expect, nothing more, nothing less. Standard features include 16-inch alloy wheels, Apple CarPlay, Panoramic Glass Roof, synthetic leather-look interiors, and advanced safety technology.
Australian pricing:
- Dolphin Dynamic: $38,890
- Dolphin Premium: $44,890
- Dolphin Sport: $49,990
Orders are open now with first deliveries expected in September or October 2023.
MG 4
The MG 4 is MGs latest model in its vehicle lineup offering decent performance and vert attractive pricing. Low pricing often results in sacrifices in the quality and comfort of the car however MG offers a value-for-money model in the MG 4.
The electric hatchback is the same size as a Toyota Corolla for reference, and the designers were thoughtful as all reviews report a spacious interior.
Pricing starts from $38,990 before on-road costs, again proving to be one of Australia's cheapest cars on the market. The MG 4 claims a 350km driving range for the base model and 0-100km/h acceleration time of 7.7 seconds.
Australian pricing:
- MG 4 51kWh Excite - $38,990
- MG 4 64kWh Excite - $44,990
- MG 4 64kWh Essence - $47,990
- MG 4 77kWh Essence - $55,990
Orders are open now with deliveries expected in August 2023.