2021 was a pivotal year in the EV world, with more sales and registration of electric vehicles hitting a record high. More electric cars were registered last year than in the past five years combined.
Despite the continued worldwide supply and semiconductor crisis, some of the world's biggest manufacturers flexed their muscles on the biggest stage, delivering new models to carry on with the common goal of promoting zero emissions.
Volkswagen ID 4, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo were some of the most notable market entrants.
February
BMW i4
Rivaling Tesla Model 3, the BMW i4 features the controversial BMW front grille. Top-rung i4 m50 models are expected to range between 259-324 miles. Even better, the £63,905 EV will offer 536 bhp with the power coming from an 80.7kWh battery.
Mercedes-AMG EQS 53
Mercedes was among the big boy brands that put out new EV models last year, and this year will not be an exception. The AMG EQS 53 is poised to be the Porsche Taycan Turbo S rival, and with the title of the first entirely electric performance car from AMG, we don't doubt it one bit. Besides the motors and steering getting AMG-specific tuning, the EQS model is expected to offer a dual-motor set up with an impressive 752 bhp and 752 lb-ft of torque.
Note: The dual-motor setup is more powerful than a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged GT S coupé V8 unit.
Genesis Electrified G80
Genesis Electrified G80 is a luxury model boasting a four-wheel-drive powertrain and a twin motor. The Mercedes EQS rival also pushes the limit with the remarkable 0-62mph sprint of 4.9sec. Other notable features include 350kW charging speeds thanks to the 800V system and a unique structure that allows you to switch between two and four-wheel drive for maximum efficiency.
Spring
March
Cupra Born
According to reports, Cupra's sporty Volkswagen ID 3 should be available in the three variants. The 58kWh battery variant will lead the way, with 45kWh and 77kWh variants following. Cupra has a standout design and additional driving dynamism as the two main selling points. And if you want more power, a 231 bhp performance variant will be released later in the year.
Volkswagen ID 5:
The ID 5 is expected to retail at £47,000 for the entry-level model with 172 bhp and 201 bhp models on the line. Notably, Volkswagen will have an ID5 GTX model with an impressive 0-62mph sprint of 6.3secs and 295 bhp.
Ora Cat:
The Chinese EV brand Ora is poised to release a retro electric car retailing at £25,000. The Volkswagen ID 3 rival will return 261 miles of range, and even with the affordable pricing, it boasts impressive technology, including over-the-air updates and mobile phone-initiated remote functions. What's more, its great 0-30mph time of 3.8 sec and a 0-62mph time of 8.5 sec makes it perfect for different use, including everyday city driving.
Tesla Model Y:
Branded by many as Tesla Model 3's SUV version, Tesla Model Y will make its UK debut this year. Like the compact model Y, we expect it to bear all the hallmarks for convenience and reliability. For the moment, our impressions are good. We especially like that the Model Y will benefit from Tesla's charging network.
Volvo C40 Recharge:
The C40 is Volvo's first EV-only car. On top-rung models, especially, we were impressed by the silent 0-62mph sprint of under 5.0secs. And with the 78kWk battery providing 260 miles of range, it's only fair to say that Volvo's EV-only car debutant will be an exciting choice for electric car owners. In the UK, especially, the prices will start from £57,000.
April
Citroën Ami is a French electric car whose positive reaction in the Western European country led the automobile makers into making a bold step, leaping into the Britain market. The heavy quadricycle seats two people, and with a 5.5kWh battery and 28mph, it's a reliable and affordable way to move around. And while it was initially destined for France, the EV has grown in popularity since Citroen announced it.
BMW iX M60:
This massive BMW SUV will arrive this year, with most EV enthusiasts looking forward to the standout styling. On performance, the German beast 611bhp and 4.0-sec charge to 63mph is remarkable. It also has a 357-mile range, and with top-notch styling and performance, the £111,905 didn't come as a surprise.
Porsche Taycan GTS:
Like the Porsche Taycan Turbo S model, the GTS will have a 626lb-ft torque figure and dual-motor setup. More importantly, it'll slot between the Taycan 4S and the Turbo models, with the significant difference being the power restriction of 590bhp instead of 670bhp.
Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo
The Sport Turismo's main takeaway is the switch from Taycan's off-road styling to a more 'low-rider' profile.'
May
Lexus RZ
With Lexus already promising its fans an "exhilarating driving performance" with the highly anticipated RZ, you know we can't wait. According to the automobile giant, the four-wheel-drive EV will offer "incredible cornering and road-holding." Additionally, Lexus's first bespoke electric car will have steer-by-wire technology, further improving the driver's experience.
Genesis GV60:
While it might be Genesis' first personalized electric vehicle, this four-wheel-drive EV boasts a dual-motor setup poised to compete with some of the best 2022 debutants. The maker has even claimed that the model might match the performance of a sports car. And with the GV60 based on Hyundai's E-GMP platform, we don't doubt Genesis.
Mercedes-Benz EQT:
Developed in liaison with Renault, the EQT is a fantastic MPV ideal for everyday driving. Notably, it previewed the new T-Class' electric sibling design.
Summer
June
Hyundai Ioniq 6:
According to emerging reports, the Ioniq 6 could have the power to rival Porsche Taycan. And while it might be Hyundai's second bespoke EV, it comes with an impressive 77.4kWh battery. The larger battery addition comes after unforeseen production delays from last-minute design changes. So, even if moving the arrival to mid-year was a bummer for many Hyundai faithfuls, upgrading from a 72.6kWh battery makes the delay worth it.
Mercedes-Benz EQE:
Made from 100% recycled steel, the new CLS-sized saloon is poised to challenge the BMW i4 and Tesla Model 3. And according to the German carmaker, the EQE will offer a remarkable 410 miles between charges. And for the bog-boy fans, a taller model will follow in 2023.
Dacia Spring EV:
In line with the company's philosophy of keeping things simple, Dacia's first EV sits four people. And as the company sets its sight on starting selling in the UK in March, Europe's most affordable EV has a 44bhp electric motor and 140 miles of range.
Lotus Evija
This all-electric supercar has a top speed of 200mph and 250 miles of range. In addition, it has four motors combined to produce a staggering 1972bhp. And while the pandemic might have delayed the production, we were impressed by our prototype drive and can't wait to see the supercars on the street.
Genesis Electrified GV70
Notable GV70 model features include 482bhp, 516lb-ft, and a 310-mile range, all of which offer a formidable challenge to the BMW iX3. And with a 350kW charger, the posh-looking Genesis offering can be charged from 10-80% in 18 minutes. Other standout features include a noise reduction system, E-Terrain mode to simplify your driving experience in challenging environments, and an automated electronic suspension system.
Skoda Enyag iV Coupé:
We expect Skoda to retain the battery size from the standard Enyag iV model, but efficiency might be improved. The new model features improved aerodynamics with up to 333 miles for the range-topping 77kWh battery. In addition, Skoda's Enyag iV Coupé will have a sloped roof for aesthetics.
July
Toyota Bz4x:
Like the Nissan Ariya, Toyota's first bespoke EV price tag in the UK will start from £41,950. And while there are doubts about the maker's ability to face off with the industry's established rivals, Toyota's long-standing experience with high-end crossovers can't be overlooked. The Bz4X model is available in a 201bhp single-motor model and a 248bhp twin-motor four-wheel-drive model. The latter top-range has an impressive sub-8.0sec 0-62mph time.
Nissan Ariya:
The Nissan Ariya is a powerful Volkswagen ID 4 competitor, and with entry-level models starting from £41,845, it looks like the rivalry will go all the way. The electric SUV has front-wheel-drive models powered by a 63kWh battery and range toppers four-wheel-drives with 248bhp and a sub 8.0sec 0-62mph time.
Volkswagen ID Buzz:
The ID Buzz brings back the legendary bus styling, complete with the retro styling. It comes in three variants as well – people carrier, commercial vehicle, and camper. Notably, all the variants are modeled with the firm's MEB platform in mind. More importantly, Volkswagen has a long-wheelbase model lined up for 2023 and another mid-decade model promising "fully autonomous driving."
Autumn
September
Lucid Air:
According to the carmaker, the coupe's top-rung models will offer up to 500 miles of range with a staggering 1056bhp output. And with such astronomical numbers, it's no surprise that people refer to it as the next Tesla. The entry-level models have a 395bhp electric motor and a 75kWh battery (Samsung-supplied) with 240 miles of range.
Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric
Despite the looming transformation into a crossover, our first impressions of the Megane E-Tech Electric were largely positive. The 215bhp power output and 221lb-ft make it quick, while the unique styling makes it efficient and comfortable to drive EV. Besides the alluring design, the car also has a claimed range of 186 and 292 miles, and you can expect to hit speeds of 62mph in 7.4sec.
Winter
November
BMW iX1:
The German carmaker is readying itself for an X1 electric version. The electric car will replace the i3, a car model that has been around for about a decade. And with the brand's eyes set on capitalizing on the growing EV model range, the BMW iX1 will be a perfect addition.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 N:
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N will possibly pack a twin-motor powertrain with a remarkable sub 4.0sec 0-62mph time. The retro-styled EV will adapt its N performance credentials with the 600bhp figure, making it the fastest Hyundai car.
Polestar 3:
While details might be scanted on the ground, we expect the Polestar 3 styling to be inspired by the Precept concept. There's very little information on the final design and powertrain specs, but sustainability will be a significant driving factor in the production process.
Audi E-Tron:
Depending on the variant, we believe the E-Tron could offer between 249 and 373 miles. Besides the cliché facelift, you can expect a more powerful battery, among other improvements.
Lotus Type 132:
Like Polestar 3, details are thin on the ground about the model. Some of the details we know now are that the EV will be assembled in China, and there will be two variants. The entry-level model is expected to offer about 600bhp while the flagship might go as high as 750bhp. We're not sure why the maker decided to snob LOTUS' Hethel facility, but let's hope the output will amaze us even more.
Kia EV6 GT:
With an impressive 577 bhp, Kia's rapid performance crossover will be faster than the famous Porsche Taycan 4S. Our initial impressions were the EV6 GT makes for a powerful and sporty electric car.
December
Ssangyong Korando E-Motion:
After the recent financial takeover, all signs point to a rejuvenated Ssangyong. We anticipate 2022 will be the year we see the Korando E-Motion. As you'd expect, the electric supercar will be based on the standard Korando with a more rugged SUV design. Potential rivals include the MG ZS EV.
BMW i7:
The BMW i7 will be a perfect choice for EV enthusiasts looking for a low-slung luxurious electric saloon model. The German Autocar maker's goal is to produce a competent Mercedes-Benz's EQS competitor. We don't have everything at the moment, but spy shots have painted an EV-specific trim with bespoke wheel designs and a blanked-ff grille – an essential aspect, especially for people not fazed by BMW's newly introduced grille. In addition, the EV will have a 105kWh battery, churning out 400 miles of range and 600bhp.
Skoda Enyag vRS:
Skoda's performance vRS will aim to rival Volkswagen's ID 4 GTX. It will be a first-time electric model for the brand. Our anticipation is a similar powertrain with a 300 miles range of 0-62mph in 6.0 seconds.
Coming in 2023
Are you not entertained? Well, if this year's electric car entrants don't excite you, we have some exciting models poised for the year after, 2023.
Mini Hatchbacks and Countryman:
2022 marks Mini Oxford factory's official transition to electrified powered cars. Its three-door Hatchback and Countryman will remain popular product offerings, but we can expect more versatility. In the process of transitioning to a fully-electric model, there will be revamping and improvements to make your driving experience enjoyable.
Fisker Ocean:
While Fisker has had a fair share of controversy, the Ocean model shouldn't be written off. Our impression is it could be a severe contender rivaling the Tesla Model Y and Audi Q4 E-Tron. The pricing will start from £30,000 for entry-level models to £50,000 for the top rangers. Notably, the Fisker Ocean has more than 250 miles range and a spacious interior.
Peugeot e-308:
According to Peugeot, the new battery-electric 308 hatchback and SW estate models will have a more powerful 50kWh battery. Both variants will also be more efficient and with a longer range than its predecessor, the e-208 supermini. And with production set to commence in 2023, we can expect a front-wheel-drive system with 154bhp and 199lb-ft.
Ford Electric SUV:
The Ford Electric will be the first passenger car coming from a Ford and Volkswagen deal. And what's the catch? You might be asking. The upcoming electric SUV will be developed on the German manufacturer's MEB platform. And while details are still scanty about what is in store, we know the models will have about 200 miles of range. In addition, the SUV variants will be driven by a selection of single-motor rear-drive and dual-motor four-wheel-drive powertrains.
Porsche Macan EV and Audi Q6 E-Tron:
Making Porsche's second attempt at car electrification, the Macan sets out to replicate the first's success in the Taycan. And the best part about it is the new model will be produced after a successful Porsche and Audi collaboration. For now, we know the Macan will be built on a new platform with a four-wheel-drive dual-motor setup offering an impressive 700bhp and 750lb-ft.
Chevrolet Silverado EV:
Chevrolet has expressed its desire to launch its nets in the reasonably new electric car industry. The new Silverado pick-up will feature a powerful battery pack of up to 200kWh, 400 miles of range (100 more than the renowned Ford F-150 Lightning). In addition, the Silverado will come with a dual-motor, four-wheel-drive powertrain churning out 660bhp and more than 780lb-ft of torque.
Rolls-Royce Spectre:
How about an electronic Rolls Royce? According to the maker, the first one on the line will be big. Like the petrol-powered Wraith, the Spectre will use the patented luxury platform. We should also expect a 600+bhp dual-motor powertrain.
MG Hatchback:
While it might be small in size, MG's Hatchback is set to rival UK's best-selling car, the Vauxhall Corsa. The Hatchback will join the 5 EV and ZS EV in the brand's electric line-up.
Volkswagen Aero-B
According to the German automotive manufacturer, the Aero-B will rival the Polestar 3 and Tesla's Model 3. It will be developed on the largest Volkswagen MEB platform with notable features, including remarkable 431 miles of range. The aerodynamic efficient electric car will also be sold with front or rear-wheel drive.
Vauxhall Astra:
The Astra is an exciting prospect with all the metrics pointing to a possible UK's best-selling car. The company will launch petrol, diesel, and plug-in models next year, and we can't wait to see what the EV variant has in store for us.
Smart SUV:
With the production set for China, a Smart SUV will be here with us in 2023. Smart is a partnership program between Geely and Mercedes, with the SUV model taking up the former's SEA platform.
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