6 Tesla alternatives in Canada

For many, Tesla is the first thing that comes to mind when someone says “electric car”, but there are more models of EVs available than what’s offered from the new kid on the assembly block. More manufacturers are committed to developing electric vehicles in the coming years, promising Tesla alternatives that will make you want to be the one in the driver’s seat.

1. Nissan Leaf

Nissan is updating its popular and successful LEAF electric car. The LEAF is currently the world’s bestselling EV, with more than 500,000 units shipped. It’s also one of the most affordable. The original LEAF launched in 2010 while Tesla was still converting rebadged Lotus cars to electric.

Highlights

• ProPilot Assist to rival Tesla’s Autopilot feature
• Nissan LEAF e-pedal lets you control both gas and brakes with a single pedal
• 240km to 363km range on a charge
• $44,298 to $52,898, depending on features and range

2. BMW i3 and i3s

If you’re looking for a little more luxury in your electric car, the BMW i3 and i3s hatchbacks fit perfectly in the sweet spot of features to price. The i3 looks like the vehicle of the not-too-distant future, with its small grille, rounded exterior and massive windshield.

Highlights

• The i3 models are sustainably built from renewable materials
• 95% of the materials used in the BMW i3 can be recycled
• 246km range on a charge
• $44,950 to $54,990 depending on the model

3. Chevrolet Bolt

The 2021 Chevrolet Bolt offers some of the best range you can get in an electric vehicle – 417km on a full charge. Chevy’s fast-charge technology also gets drivers back on the road quicker and for more distance, with roughly 160km of range able to be added in just 30 minutes from a DC Fast Charging station.

Highlights

• 56 cubic feet of storage
• 417km range on a full charge
• Fast charging capability
• $44,998 to $50,298, depending on features

4. Hyundai IONIQ Electric

Hyundai’s IONIQ Electric comes packed with driver assistant technology that makes driving the hatchback a breeze. The IONIQ comes with generous passenger space, despite the vehicle’s small form factor. Expect to see more of the IONIQ name in the near future, as Hyundai prepares to launch the IONIQ 5 SUV soon.

Highlights

• Standard crash detection to assist with braking
• Highway driving and lane following assist
• 274km range
• $41,599 to $45,999 depending on the model

5. Ford Mustang Mach-E

The first electric car to join Ford’s legendary Mustang line-up is a great Tesla alternative for those who are looking at the Model X. The Mustang Mach-E is among the largest EVs you can buy right now, making it a great option for anyone who needs to carry 3 or 4 hockey bags to the kids’ practices.

Highlights

• Eye-catching colours that make you stand out on the road
• Ford Co-Pilot360 2.0 watches your blindspots to help you change lanes, back out of a parking space, or even hit the gas and brakes for you
• 370km of range per charge
• $50,495 to $82,995

6. Porsche Taycan

The most luxurious of the Tesla-like cars on our list comes with a luxury price tag to match. The Porsche Taycan line-up is the German manufacturer’s first foray into the world of EVs, and the company started with a bang. This is the alternative choice for anyone considering a fully loaded Model X, Model S Plaid or the upcoming Roadster.

Highlights

• 17 colours to choose from
• Charges from 5% to 80% in less than 25 minutes with the Porsche Turbo Charging at Porsche Centres
• Top speed of 260km/h on the top end model
• 309km to 323km range
• $119,900 to $218,000, depending on the specific model

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Bottom line

Tesla might be the most well-known electric vehicle manufacturer in the world, but it isn’t your only option. Tesla alternatives are more available than ever and come with a number of competitive features, plus a competitive price tag. There is an EV for everyone these days, and if you found one that caught your eye, read our guide to car loans to find out how to finance it.

Frequently asked questions

• Where can I charge an electric car?

  You can have a charger installed at your home or charge your car at one of the electric charging stations around the country at places like restaurants, parking garages and rest areas.

• Can I get a tax credit for buying an electric car?

  Yes, you may be eligible for a tax credit of $2,000 to $5,000 depending on the size and battery capacity of your car. Visit Transport Canada to see all eligible EV models and how much you may be eligible for.

• How long does the battery in an electric car last?

  It’s difficult to predict and will vary between manufacturers. But most new electric cars come with a substantial warranty on the battery. For example, a 2019 Nissan Leaf battery is warrantied up to 8 years or 160,000 kilometres.

Image source: Shutterstock, BMW.com.au