Here’s some of the most exciting upcoming plug-in hybrid electric and battery-electric cars coming up in the next 3 years. Each of these models has something fresh to offer a fast-growing segment. The race to increase range and efficiency is in full swing. With batteries becoming cheaper and technology improving, electric cars will soon be less expensive and more viable as daily transportation.
Ford Focus Electric – Nationwide rollout 2012-2013
The Focus Electric is out now in a few select markets, with a national roll-out to take place throughout 2012 and into 2013. With a 76 mile range thanks to a 141-horsepower electric motor and 23 kW lithium-ion battery pack, the Focus Electric roughly equals Nissan’s Leaf in key performance areas like range, interior space and efficiency.
Ford Fusion Energi – Late 2012
Ford also has a plug-in hybrid in the cards, based on the sharply styled new 2013 Fusion. Known as the Energi, this special Fusion can not only travel for 16 to 19 miles without using a drop of gas, but will still be capable of outstanding mileage. There will be no tradeoff here for those seeking a spacious sedan plus gas-free driving.
Honda Fit EV – Nationwide rollout begins Summer 2012
Like Ford, Honda chose to use an existing platform for its new battery-electric car, rather than shouldering the expense of developing from the ground up. Good thing, too, as the Fit is a featherweight and fun-to-drive subcompact with more interior cargo space than most small crossover SUVs in a well-designed and versatile configuration.
Volkswagen Golf EV – Late 2013
The compact electric hatchback segment continues to grow, with VW’s new electric Golf in development. The Golf quite a bit heavier than the Fit to start out with, so it remains to be seen if Volkswagen will be able to make the platform light enough to still return good driving range. Expect an interior a cut above cars like the Leaf and Chevy Volt, with high-quality materials as is VW’s trademark.
Tesla Model S – End of 2012
The makers of the pioneering Tesla Roadster are moving into the luxury sedan game, with the $50,000 (after tax rebate) 2013 Model S still promised to go on sale by the end of 2012. This sedan will bring a 160-mile range in its base configuration, with extra-cost batteries bringing range as high as 300 miles. That’s enough for a short road trip, unlike all other current production electric cars.
Tesla Model X – 2013 – 2014
The Model X luxury electric crossover will follow the sedan model to market by around a year, promising around the same range in a spacious platform with good utility. The trick rear doors swing upwards like a DeLorean, making for easy entry and parking lot stares. The Model X will cost around the same as the Model S.
BMW i8 eDrive – Worldwide release begins late 2013/early 2014
BMW’s new i8 is a true sports car that just happens to also be a plug-in hybrid with great efficiency and a short electric-only range. The flagship model for the German luxury brand’s new eDrive subdivision, the i8 will be available in coupe and roadster configurations. Expect fuel efficiency triple that of other supercars without sacrificing performance.
BMW i3 eDrive – Worldwide release begins late 2013/early 2014
The i3 uses the same electric motor as the i8, though without the gas engine. The battery-electric luxury city car has been making the rounds of auto shows around the world. Range should beat mass-market electric cars already on the roads, thanks to the i3’s heavy use of carbon fiber and lightweight yet strong plastics in its construction. It will also feature BMW’s trademark luxury, though don’t expect it to come cheap.
