With good reason, electric vehicles dominated the US auto market in 2022. There has never been a greater demand for EVs with zero emissions. Find out why the ten best-selling electric cars of 2022 made the list by looking at them.
Which electric vehicles will be the most popular in 2022?
Electric vehicles were a bright spot in a year of decline for the overall US auto market. To catch EV pioneer Tesla and secure their futures, automakers increased their investments by more than double.
According to the most recent figures from Motor Intelligence, sales of fully electric vehicles reached over 800,000 in the United States, nearly doubling from 2021 to reach almost 6% of the overall market.
The additional EV models on the market are a major contributor to the increase in demand. In addition, buyers can receive up to $4,000 for used EVs and up to $7,500 for new EVs under the new government incentives established by the Inflation Reduction Act, which was passed in August.
With 65% of all EV sales in the United States in 2022, Tesla maintains its position as the market leader by a significant margin. However, Ford, Hyundai, and GM, among others, are beginning to claim their share of the market thanks to their swift responses to the market’s rapid change.
Ford achieved the second-largest number of EV sales in the United States in 2022 with 61,575 sales. In preparation for an even bigger year in 2023, Hyundai and Kia both set sales records last year due to strong demand for their electric models.
In the meantime, in their most recent sales update, GM claims that it had the “#1 mainstream EV in Q3 and Q4” (assuming Tesla was not included). So, what is driving the success of the electric vehicles that sell the most? The top ten EVs sold in the United States and the reasons behind their inclusion are listed below.
1 Ford F-150 Lightning
The F-150 Lightning was shown to the world in May 2021, and by the end of the year, it had more than 200,000 reservations or a backlog of three years. The Ford F-150 Lightning, an electric pickup with a 14.1 cubic foot Mega-Power Frunk and advanced features like onboard power that can be used to power home necessities, a campsite, or a workstation, etc., became the number one electric truck in the United States in December after production was ramped up.
The Ford electric truck is capable enough for people who want to switch from its gas-powered counterparts while also receiving a significant technological upgrade.
2 Volkswagen ID.4
Based on the MEB platform, the VW ID.4 went into production in 2020. Since then, it has become one of the most popular EVs because it is a practical SUV for everyday use with a lot of range (up to 275 miles, according to the EPA). The ID.4 gives you the feeling of luxury without the high price tag, starting at less than $40,000.
In addition, the EV is equipped with VW’s cutting-edge IQ. The DRIVE driver assistance system includes features like adaptive cruise control, active blind spot monitoring, front assist, and more.
3 Kia EV6
In May 2021, Kia unveiled the EV6, which was built on the E-GMP platform developed by The Hyundai Motor Company. It is an up-to-date sport crossover that runs entirely on electricity.
The Kia EV6 has a range of up to 310 miles, fast charging that takes 18 minutes (10% to 80%), vehicle-to-load capabilities, and many other features. The Kia EV6 GT has 576 horsepower, which is enough to beat a Ferrari and Lamborghini in a race. It is designed for those who prefer a little bit more excitement in their vehicle.
4 Hyundai IONIQ 5
The bold, futuristic-looking IONIQ 5, which went on sale in February 2021, has won many awards and won the hearts of many drivers who are making the switch to all-electric vehicles. The E-GMP platform is also used in the IONIQ 5, as Hyundai rethought every aspect of its first electric vehicle.
Similar to the ID.4 and EV6, Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 is a useful SUV that starts at a reasonable price and has a range of up to 303 miles according to the EPA.
5 Tesla Model X
The Model X Plaid has more than 1,020 hp peak power, making it the fastest SUV (0 to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds), and still has 333 EPA estimated miles.
This Model X was the go-to electric family car for a while, but as more affordable alternatives hit the market, many people wondered if sales would slow. The Model X continues to rule for the time being.
6 Chevy Bolt EV/EUV
Ending the year on a high note, GM claimed that the Chevy Bolt was the “number one mainstream EV in the Q3 and Q4.” The Bolt EV is the cheapest electric vehicle in the United States, starting at just over $25,000, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less useful.
The Chevy Bolt EV was Electrek’s vehicle of the year in 2022 because it was quick, fun to drive, and had a decent range (259 miles, according to the EPA).
7 Tesla Model S
The Model S from Tesla says it all. It is extremely sleek, has exceptional performance, and has ultra-long range capabilities (405 miles EPA estimated).
The mainstream EV movement was primarily fueled by the all-electric luxury Model S sedan’s quick acceleration (from 0 to 60 in 3.1 seconds), extended range, and confident handling.
It also has a lot of storage space and a modern interior, making it a good car to drive. It costs $104,990, making it one of the best luxury electric vehicles on the market.
8 Ford Mustang Mach-E
Ford is another long-established automaker that has embraced the EV movement, bringing its renowned Mustang brand into the new era.
Since its debut in 2019, the Mustang Mach-E has steadily gained popularity. The SUV with five seats starts at $46,895 and has a lot of range and a quiet ride.
9 Tesla Model 3
In 2018, the Model 3 began shipping to customers, and it quickly became the best-selling electric vehicle at the time. With a lot of power and better handling, the Tesla Model 3 offers the same Tesla spirit.
With a five-star NHTSA rating in every category, quick acceleration (0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds), long-range capabilities (358-mile EPA range), and a starting price of $46,990, the four-door electric vehicle is designed for safety.
10 Tesla Model Y
Until the Model Y hit the market, the Model 3 was the best-selling electric vehicle.
The Tesla Model Y went on sale in 2020 and has since gained a lot of popularity. The Model Y is already among the top ten most popular vehicles in the United States, and it is aiming to repeat its success in Europe. It beat out gas-powered vehicles to become the best-selling car. For good reason, the Tesla Model Y is on its way to becoming the most popular car in the world.
The Tesla Model Y starts at $65,990 and features dual AWD motors, 76 cubic feet of storage, and a range of 330 miles.
