Previously, the thought of driving an electric vehicle was just a dream... thankfully in 2021 going electric has never been easier! With a wide range of fully electric and hybrid options to choose from, there has never been a better time to make the switch to electric. With a lower road tax, a better economy, and a reduction in the environmental impact, the hardest part of going electric is choosing which make and model is the best fit for you.
This list will hopefully help to make your decision a bit easier...
When it comes to electric vehicles, Volkswagen is definitely leading the way with two of our TOP 5 selections, with the ID.3 being one of the most futuristic electric vehicles currently on the market. Like the ID.4, the ID.3 is fully electric and has all the bells and whistles you would expect from a premium Volkswagen this time in the form of a sporty hatchback.
The ID.3 has a stunning exterior with sharp angles which make it one of the most futuristic models on the market, highlighted by its bold rear spoiler, which is guaranteed to turn heads on the daily commute or school run. There’s also three different battery types to choose from which can deliver range from 330km to 550km per charge. One of the additional highlights of the ID.3 is the quick charge facility which can deliver 260km in just 30 minutes when using a 100kWh DC charger.
The current 1D.3 1st special edition is available with a choice of four colours and has three different versions. Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, a large ‘Discovery’ multimedia touchscreen, a leather steering wheel, heated seats, adaptive cruise control with traffic stop-and-go, two-zone climate control, and LED headlights. Additional extras include AR Head-UP Display, Panoramic sunroof and voice assist.
Inside the ID.3 feature gorgeous two-tone finished seats as well as plenty of legroom for a hatchback. Inside also features beautiful ambient lighting which allows you to set the mood with a choice of 30 to choose from, meaning your new ID.3 can also be your new mood ring. This model has the same grants available as the ID.4. with the ID.3 probably being the most ideal option for those who love traditional golf and want to drive a fully electric hatchback of the same ilk.
• Range: Up to 550km from a single charge
• 18-inch Alloys
• Fast charge option
• 0-100km in 7.3 seconds
• Ambient lighting
If you’re looking for a premium electric SUV then look no further than the new Mercedes-Benz EQC. The first of a family of electric- powered vehicles being launched by the luxury carmaker over the next two years. The new EQC boasts an impressive range of up to 471 km on a single charge thanks to its powerful 80kWh battery pack.
The EQC also possess unmatched power output with 408hp allowing you to dominate the road. This is highlighted by an acceleration figure of 0-100km/h in just 5.1 seconds. A permanent all-wheel-drive system delivers the guarantee of dynamic high-level performance.
Other features include a completely new operating and display experience: with natural, intuitive voice control, functions capable of learning and touch-sensitive surfaces. Elegantly framed by a super high resolution widescreen cockpit. The EQC is also packed with the most modern safety features including the latest generation driver assistance systems which ensure a highly relaxed and safe driving experience in the EQC. In an emergency, the systems react automatically and thus noticeably relieve the driver. Standard equipment includes 19-inch alloy wheels, automatic collision avoidance, and two 10.25-inch interior displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment system. All models feature the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system, which features a voice-controlled smart-assistant that can be activated by saying "Hey Mercedes" which only adds to the driving experience.
In summary the new EQC is a great addition to the electric car range currently available and adds the extra touches that Mercedes-Benz is known for being a leading force in. The EQC may be the first in the line of new electric models but it already redefining the market with this new model.
EQC Highlights
• Range: 471km from a single charge
• Driving Assistance package
• Parking package with 360° camera
• 0-100km in 5.1 seconds
• Multibeam LED lighting
• LED luminescent band front and rear
• Widescreen Cockpit
When it comes to electric vehicles, the engine is mainly the focus for consumers, given the wide benefits of switching to electric. However for those who don’t want to comprise luxury and still want to drive electric the Audi e-tron range is the perfect solution for you. The e-tron and e-tron sportback has a striking exterior design with sharp curves and a powerful electric engine to match. With the Audi e-tron 50 Quattro and the Audi e-tron 55 Quattro, there are two different performance variants that are tailored to your needs. You can also add your personal touch with a vast range of colours to choose from when selecting your 2021 e-tron.
The e-tron is the perfect solution for those who don’t want to sacrifice performance when driving electric, with its top speed of 200km. In terms of range, the e-tron can achieve up to 402 kilometres from a single charge and the is fully charged in just 9 hours with all models compatible with 150.0-kW DC fast-chargers that allow it to replenish 80 percent of its battery in about 30 minutes.
In terms of the interior, the e-tron possesses everything you would expect when driving an Audi, such as 20-inch wheels, blind-spot monitoring, heated front seats, four-zone climate control, leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof. The e-tron’s impressive technology features are highlighted in the Virtual Cockpit which consists of a dashboard with multiple high-resolution screens.
If you are in the market for optional extras the connivence pack brings black exterior trim, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a 360-degree camera system. The e-tron also possesses an incredible 4000-pound towing capacity so the addition of the Tow package is a must for those who want to utilize this powerful feature.
In terms of safety, the e-tron also packs a punch with standard forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, standard blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and standard lane-departure warning. The e-tron is the perfect companion for those who want to drive electric without sacrificing performance or luxury!
• Range: 402km from a single charge
• 20-inch Alloys
• Virtual Cockpit with HD screens
• 0-100km in 5.7 seconds
• 360-degree camera system
• Heated Front Seats & Steering Wheel
• Adaptive Cruise Control
For those who are on more of a budget in terms of driving an electric, the Hyundai KONA Hybrid. is an excellent hybrid option. The KONA Hybrid offers a striking and award-winning design that turns heads wherever it goes.
The KONA Hybrid also boasts impressive performance from its 1.6 hybrid engine which has a fuel consumption of just 5.4 litres/100, and a max speed of 160km/h. You can also add your personal touch with a choice of 10 exterior colours and an eye-catching two-tone roof there’s endless possibilities with the KONA Hybrid. Additionally, it sits on exclusive 18” two-tone multi-spoke wheels which add to the stylish nature of the KONA Hybrid.
The hybrid engine isn’t the only futuristic element of the KONA, optimally placed next to the speedometer and hybrid gauge, a 3.5” mono LCD screen shows you important driver information such as: the battery state of charge and energy flow as well as the status of active safety features, remaining fuel range and fuel consumption, navigation instructions and outside temperature.
The sport mode of the KONA Hybrid possesses steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles which allows gears to be shifted manually using these paddles for a more dynamic driving experience. The sporty feel continues with a six-speed Dual Clutch Transmission to match the hybrid power within the engine.
• Hybrid engine
• Fuel consumption of just 5.4 litres/100.
• 18-inch Alloys
• 3.5” mono LCD screen
• Two-tone roof
• Sport mode with paddles
• Award-winning design
When it comes to driving a fully electric car or hybrid model, the new SEAT Leon e-Hybrid truly blurs the line between plug-in vehicle and hybrid. It is both! The e-Hybrid like most hybrids recharges the battery but it only uses the petrol motor for extra power. In terms of recharging you simply plug it into a conventional power network.
With this advanced technology, the all-new SEAT Leon e-Hybrid can achieve even more range than a purely hybrid or electric version. It’s a 100% electric engine, you can easily drive emission-free. This is showcased with trips up to 60km emitting 0 CO2 emissions. Hybrid mode offers a reach of 800km, which is also extremely impressive. This model also possesses a 1.4 litre TSI engine which combines with its 85kW engine to achieve a combined 150kW of power.
The charge time is relatively fast when compared to other models with the SEAT charger allowing a full charge in just 3 hours 40 minutes. While much of the plaudits are going to what’s inside the bonnet the exterior of the SEAT Leon e-Hybrid can’t be underestimated for with stunning 17” Alloy wheels, a rearview camera, tinted windows in addition to ambient lighting as standard. Additional extras include 18” alloys, Navigation assist and cruise control to name but a few.
The SEAT Leon e-Hybrid has the best of both worlds for those looking to enter the electric car space on a budget.
• Range: Up to 800km from a single charge
• Plug-in and hybrid engine
• Charge time of 3hours 40 minutes
• Ambient lighting
• Rearview camera
In summary, whether you're looking to go fully electric or drive a hybrid, there has never been a better time to make the switch than this year. You can view our wide range of plug-in electric models and fully electric vehicles on our website.