the EQE achieves an impressive range of 376 miles.
As the automotive industry continues to embrace the shift towards sustainability, the demand for electric cars with impressive range capabilities is at an all-time high.
One of the biggest factors when buying an electric car is range.
In 2024, consumers are spoiled for choice when it comes to electric cars that not only prioritise eco-friendliness but also offer an extended driving range.
From cutting-edge technology to innovative design, these EVs redefine expectations and showcase the remarkable progress made in extending the boundaries of electric driving.
Whether you’re a seasoned EV enthusiast or a curious first-time buyer, this list provides insights into the vehicles leading the charge towards a sustainable and high-performance future on the roads.
Mercedes EQE
Range: 376 miles
Positioned as the younger sibling to the Mercedes EQS, the EQE stands out as an executive sedan within the brand, serving as the electric counterpart to the E-Class.
Utilising the same EVA2 platform as its larger counterpart, this electric car mirrors its uninspiring aesthetics while boasting high aerodynamic efficiency.
Equipped with a substantial 90kWh battery, the EQE achieves an impressive range of 376 miles.
Noteworthy for its commendable ride comfort and exceptional refinement, the EQE provides a smooth driving experience at various speeds.
However, at higher speeds, there’s a subtle tendency for the vehicle to sway on its suspension, creating a sensation that may feel slightly unnatural.
Further contributing to its unique driving experience is the EQE’s elevated driving position and a substantial curb weight of 2.3 tonnes, lending it a demeanour more akin to an SUV.
Despite its strengths, the EQE falls short compared to rivals, particularly in its charging capabilities.
With a maximum charging speed of 170kW, the EQE lags behind competitors like Porsche and Audi.
On the positive side, the vehicle boasts an excellent infotainment system and incorporates cutting-edge technology. Nevertheless, drawbacks such as poor visibility and limited cargo space detract from the overall appeal of the Mercedes EQE.
Renault Scenic E-Tech
Range: 379 miles
Originally introduced as an MPV in the late nineties and noughties, the Renault Scenic has undergone a recent transformation, emerging as an all-electric SUV-MPV hybrid.
In the UK market, every Renault Scenic E-Tech is equipped with a substantial 87kWh battery, providing an impressive official range of up to 379 miles.
For perspective, this surpasses the single-charge capabilities of any Tesla Model Y variant by approximately 40 miles and exceeds the longest range offered by the Hyundai Ioniq 5 by over 60 miles.
Adding to its allure, the Scenic proves to be a more cost-effective option compared to its main competitors.
With a starting price just shy of £41,000, it stands out as a more budget-friendly choice when contrasted with the nearly £43,500 for the basic Ioniq 5 and close to £45,000 for an entry-level Model Y.
Despite its competitive pricing, the Scenic doesn’t compromise on features. Even the baseline Techno trim models boast an array of amenities.
The Renault Scenic E-Tech incorporates modern technology seamlessly, with built-in apps like Google Maps, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity.
It also offers various driver assistance and safety systems, such as adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring.
Polestar 3
Range: 379 miles
Polestar’s third model is its first SUV.
Geared towards the upper echelons of the electric SUV market, the Polestar 3 sets its sights on formidable rivals like the Audi Q8 e-tron and BMW iX.
Built on a shared platform with the seven-seat Volvo EX90, the 3 boasts a substantial 107kWh battery pack.
According to Polestar, this powerhouse is capable of delivering an impressive range of up to 379 miles, and with a rapid charging capacity of 250kW, achieving a 10-80% charge takes a mere 30 minutes.
Internally, the Polestar 3 pampers its occupants with an array of opulent amenities.
Highlights include a panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting, a 360-degree parking camera, soft-closing doors, cabin air filtration, heated rear seats and the latest Android Automotive infotainment system.
Priced starting from just under £80,000, the Polestar 3 is expected to make its debut in the market around the middle of 2024.
BMW iX
Range: 382 miles
The iX stands as BMW’s flagship electric SUV, showcasing an impressive range of up to 382 miles.
While opinions on the iX’s design may vary, there’s unanimous agreement on its remarkable capabilities.
Each iX is equipped with a dual-motor setup for all-wheel drive, and the interior exudes luxury with its abundance of soft-touch materials, showcasing a high standard of craftsmanship.
The cabin features two 14.5-inch curved screens housing BMW’s latest iDrive system, widely acclaimed as one of the smoothest infotainment systems available.
Despite weighing 2.4 tonnes, the iX delivers an excellent driving experience, living up to BMW’s performance standards.
The xDrive40, the least powerful variant, accelerates from 0-62mph in a brisk 6.1 seconds.
For those seeking the electrified embodiment of BMW’s M cars, the M60 model, boasting 611bhp, achieves the 0-62mph sprint in a mere 3.8 seconds.
But the spotlight is on the mid-range xDrive50, which focuses on efficiency but still demonstrates impressive speed.
BMW i7
Range: 387 miles
BMW has been in the electric car market for several years and its flagship executive limousine now has an all-electric version.
Distinguishing itself from the Tesla Model S and Mercedes EQS, the freshly unveiled i7 shares its platform with the traditional combustion-engined 7 Series.
Nevertheless, this shared platform doesn’t imply any compromise in the i7’s powertrain sophistication.
Boasting a 101.7kWh battery, BMW possesses an impressive range of up to 387 miles for the i7.
Notably, the battery pack’s slim design ensures minimal intrusion into the cabin space, a crucial consideration for any luxury car.
Moreover, with a maximum charging speed of 195kW, a 10-80% charge can be accomplished in a mere 34 minutes.
Embarking on a journey in the i7 promises a nearly silent driving experience, accompanied by exceptional refinement and the use of premium materials, creating an ambience of unparalleled comfort.
The i7 provides ample space and an unmistakable sense of occasion, earning it the prestigious Luxury Car of the Year award for 2023.
Tesla Model 3
Range: 391 miles
Available in the UK since 2019, the Tesla Model 3 faces a growing array of competitors, yet its popularity among British EV enthusiasts is easily understandable.
As Tesla’s most affordable model, the Model 3 makes no compromises in range, with every variant capable of exceeding 300 miles on a single charge.
The recently unveiled facelifted Model 3 at the 2023 Munich Motor Show takes this even further, as the new Model 3 Long Range boasts an official range of 391 miles (up from 374 miles).
Interestingly, Tesla estimates that models equipped with the smaller 18-inch wheels could achieve an impressive 421 miles before needing a recharge.
A notable advantage for Model 3 owners is access to all Tesla Superchargers, a particularly attractive feature for those covering extensive motorway miles.
The interior of the Model 3 is infused with the brand’s signature technology and the facelifted version promises a 15.4-inch touchscreen, maintaining its previous size but with more usable screen space.
Enhanced refinement is expected with the inclusion of new acoustic glass, quieter tires, and sound-deadening materials.
Despite these comfort-oriented upgrades, the Model 3 continues to deliver mind-boggling performance, exemplified by the new Model 3 Long Range’s impressive acceleration from 0-62mph in just 4.4 seconds.
Tesla Model S
Range: 394 miles
In response to an increasingly competitive landscape, Tesla’s iconic Model S, which played a pivotal role in establishing the brand in the electric car market, underwent a substantial update in 2021.
While it took some time for the revamped flagship sedan to reach the UK, it finally hit the roads in 2023, flaunting an impressive maximum range of 394 miles.
However, the Model S is exclusively available in left-hand drive.
Despite this limitation, it’s easy to overlook once you consider the remarkable range and performance it delivers.
The dual-motor Long Range Model S, for instance, accelerates from 0-60mph in a mere 3.1 seconds, placing it in the league of top supercars.
For those seeking even more exhilaration, the Model S Plaid achieves an astonishing 1.99 seconds in the same sprint, courtesy of its three electric motors generating 1,006bhp and 1,420Nm of torque.
Abundant in technology, the Model S maintains its somewhat minimalist interior styling, enhanced by a recent facelift that introduced a new 17-inch landscape touchscreen.
The inclusion of Tesla’s Autopilot system and other features contributes to stress-free long journeys, complemented by access to the Tesla Supercharger network in case the battery begins to run low on charge.
Polestar 2
Range: 406 miles
A well-known electric car manufacturer, Polestar is a competitor to Tesla and the Polestar 2 has undergone a significant transformation.
Formerly boasting a maximum range of 341 miles, a facelift and substantial updates beneath the surface now allow the Polestar 2 to travel an impressive 406 miles before requiring a recharge.
This achievement gains additional significance considering the affordability of the Long Range Single Motor version, priced at less than £50,000, around half the cost of the Tesla Model S.
Beyond its extended range, the Polestar 2 stands out for its robust build quality, aesthetically pleasing design and top-notch Google-powered infotainment system.
Practical features, including the hatchback tailgate and a 41-litre ‘frunk’ under the bonnet, contribute to ample space for passengers and cargo.
However, one of the drawbacks is that it is a very firm ride.
This rigidity makes the driving experience uncomfortable on uneven UK roads, presenting a notable disadvantage in comparison to models from Tesla, Hyundai and BMW.
Fisker Ocean
Range: 440 miles
California-based electric car manufacturer Fisker has several upcoming EVs in the pipeline.
But the first model hitting the UK is the Ocean, an aesthetically pleasing family SUV loaded with unique and innovative features, along with an impressive range when configured optimally.
The Ocean lineup includes the entry-level Ocean Sport, offering a range of 273 miles, the Ocean Ultra with a 379-mile range and the top-tier Ocean Extreme, as well as the limited-run Ocean One, astonishingly covering an unparalleled 440 miles on a single charge.
This remarkable range is attributed to a substantial 106.5kWh usable battery and two electric motors delivering all-wheel drive and a formidable 557bhp.
Similar to the Polestar 2, the Ocean Extreme and One also boast noteworthy price tags, both just surpassing £60,000.
Additionally, buyers can enjoy a spacious 476-litre boot and advanced technology including a 17.1-inch display that rotates for movie watching during charging.
Mercedes EQS
Range: 452 miles
The Mercedes EQS is currently the longest-range electric car available in the UK.
It is the electric version of the S-Class.
The entry-level EQS 450+ model boasts an impressive maximum range of 452 miles, achieved through the integration of a substantial 107.8kWh battery pack and a remarkably low coefficient of drag.
This aerodynamic design enables enhanced efficiency at higher speeds, making it adept at traversing the air seamlessly.
However, opting for the high-performance Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 entails a trade-off between range and speed.
With an abundance of power available, this variant accelerates from 0-62mph in less than four seconds.
Yet, the emphasis on speed results in a reduced range, offering a maximum of 348 miles.
In 2024, the electric vehicle market offers a diverse array of options for those seeking not only an eco-conscious driving experience but also an extended range that meets the demands of modern life.
These cars exemplify the ongoing innovation and commitment within the automotive industry to push the boundaries of electric mobility.
As technology continues to advance and consumer preferences shift towards sustainable alternatives, expect to see electric cars with even longer ranges.