Electric cars are no longer futuristic toys for the rich; they’re quickly becoming a realistic, affordable option for everyday drivers everywhere, including here in Africa. With global automakers racing to produce cost-effective EVs, 2025 has shaped up to be the year of the budget-friendly electric car.
Whether you’re worried about fuel prices or want to go green, these 10 wallet-friendly electric vehicles (EVs) stand out for their affordability, impressive features, and solid range. Here’s everything you need to know before you buy – with verified facts from multiple industry sources like Autoexpress, TrueCar, Cars.com, MotorTrend, and InsideEVs.
10. BMW i4 eDrive35 – Luxury meets affordability
The entry-level BMW i4 eDrive35 starts at €52,000 (£45,000) but often sees promotions bringing it into reach for EV buyers seeking a premium experience. It offers 299 miles of range, classic BMW rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and a superb interior with BMW’s Curved Display. The i4 blends sportiness with practicality, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a luxury sedan without the sky-high price tag.
9. Tesla Model 3 (2024 Highland) – The updated benchmark
The refreshed 2024 Tesla Model 3, widely called the “Highland” update, continues into 2025 with improvements across the board. Starting from about €42,000 (£36,000), it offers sharper styling, better cabin quality, and ranges of 318–390 miles depending on configuration. Tesla’s Supercharger network and intuitive software remain huge selling points. For performance fans, the Dual Motor versions offer blistering acceleration at a price still below many premium rivals.
8. Renault Scenic E-Tech – The reinvented family MPV
Renault has transformed the Scenic from a family MPV into a sleek electric crossover for 2025. The Scenic E-Tech starts from €40,000 (£34,000) with a range of up to 379 miles — one of the highest in its price segment. With a massive panoramic screen, openR Link infotainment, and generous space for families, the Scenic E-Tech offers practicality with a modern twist. It’s ideal for buyers needing both long-range performance and everyday usability.
7. Volvo EX30 – The premium small SUV at a bargain
Volvo’s smallest EV yet, the EX30, starts from around €36,000 (£31,000) and punches above its weight in style, tech, and safety. Offering 214–295 miles of range depending on the battery, it comes with Google built-in infotainment, Pilot Assist, and sustainable interior options like recycled materials. Its compact footprint makes it perfect for urban driving while retaining Volvo’s reputation for comfort and safety — it’s like having a shrunken XC40 with lower running costs.
6. Kia EV3 – The affordable compact crossover
The EV3 brings Kia’s stunning EV9-inspired design language to a smaller, more affordable package. Officially revealed in 2024, the EV3 will start from around €35,000–€40,000 (£30,000–£34,000). Early specs suggest it’ll offer 200–300 miles of range, depending on the battery pack, with ultra-fast 800V charging inherited from Kia’s flagship EVs. Inside, expect a minimalist, high-tech cabin with sustainable materials and a generous suite of driver assistance systems — all at a price that makes it a true contender.
5. Skoda Elroq – Affordable family EV SUV
The Elroq is Skoda’s upcoming compact electric SUV, expected to replace the Karoq in the brand’s lineup. Built on Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform, it should share components with the VW ID.3/ID.4. Early estimates put its starting price around €35,000 (£30,000), with 52- and 77-kWh battery options providing 220–330 miles of range. Expect Skoda’s signature practicality, massive boot, clever interior touches, and a design language similar to the larger Enyaq. It promises to be one of the most family-friendly EVs in its class.
4. Hyundai Kona Electric – Better than ever
The new-generation Hyundai Kona Electric arrives with a more refined look, improved aerodynamics, and a longer wheelbase for extra rear space. Prices start from around €35,000 (£30,000), with range options stretching up to 319 miles (WLTP) for the Long Range 65.4 kWh version. The Kona Electric’s bold styling, advanced driver aids, 12.3-inch dual displays, and digital key technology keep it ahead of the pack for value-packed, versatile small SUVs.
3. Renault 5 – Retro style, modern EV tech
The 2025 Renault 5 combines retro charm with cutting-edge technology, bringing back the iconic hatchback as a stylish and affordable EV. Pricing is expected to start from €25,000 (£22,000), offering up to 248 miles of range thanks to a 52-kWh battery. With sharp handling, punchy acceleration, and a cute yet aggressive look, the new R5 has already stolen hearts. Inside, a 10-inch digital cluster and infotainment, customizable mood lighting, and sustainable upholstery make it surprisingly premium.
2. Citroën e-C3 – Europe’s cheapest proper EV
The 2025 Citroën e-C3 is a game-changer. With prices expected to start at just €23,300 (about £20,000), it undercuts almost every EV in its class. The e-C3 offers a real-world range of around 200 miles (320 km) from a 44 kWh battery, plus fast-charging up to 100 kW — impressive for a budget EV.
It features rugged crossover styling with Citroën’s trademark cushioned ride, spacious cabin, and modern 10.25-inch infotainment display. It’s positioned as the cheapest “serious” European EV — not a microcar — and is set to make EV ownership accessible for many.
1. Leapmotor T03 – China’s budget EV coming to Europe
The Leapmotor T03 is a Chinese-made city EV aiming to undercut rivals in Europe with a starting price as low as €20,000 (£17,000). This five-door hatchback packs a 41 kWh battery, giving a range of up to 174 miles, solid for urban use. Despite its low price, it comes with digital screens, a modern design, and plenty of safety features, making it a serious contender if Leapmotor’s European rollout succeeds.
From retro city cars like the Renault 5 to versatile SUVs like the Kia EV3 and budget heroes like the Citroën e-C3, 2025’s EV market has something for every budget. With charging infrastructure expanding quickly and prices becoming more competitive, these models prove you don’t have to break the bank to join the electric revolution.
