The Top 5 Hottest Electric Vehicles in Indiana

Electric vehicles (EVs) are accelerating in popularity across much of America, Indiana included. While total EV registrations in the state still lag behind leaders like California, the 48.21% year-over-year growth to 10,360 registrations in 2021 points to soaring interest amongst Hoosier drivers.^1 As choices expand and prices drop, that momentum shows no signs of slowing.

Industry investments also signal confidence in Indiana‘s EV future. For example, the state government has earmarked $100 million to deploy a fast charging network that will enable long-distance EV travel.^2 And a recent Consumer Reports survey found over 50% of Indiana drivers now consider an EV or hybrid for their next vehicle purchase.^3

For an individual looking to join the EV revolution in Indiana, separating the hype from reality can prove challenging. To help, we spotlight the top 5 EVs by popularity in the state and discuss what‘s driving consumer interest using the latest available registration and industry sales data.

Overview of the Top 5 EVs in Indiana

The electric vehicles capturing the most consumer attention in Indiana range across multiple categories and price points, but all deliver compelling combinations of range, features and value:

Now let‘s explore what‘s driving popularity across this diverse set of battery-powered rides in Indiana.

#1 – Tesla Model 3

The Model 3 is the runaway national EV sales leader, so its #1 status in Indiana comes as no surprise. As Tesla‘s most affordable model by far, the Model 3 combines head-turning acceleration, ample driving range and high-tech details starting at a more accessible $46,440 before savings.^4

Notably, over 73,000 units were sold in the US last year alone, dominating the luxury sedan space.^5 While Indiana-specific registration data remains closely held by Tesla, if we assume owners match the youthful, status-conscious luxurybuyer profile nationwide, the Model 3‘s popularity amongst well-heeled Indianapolis suburbanites and tech-forward Purdue grads appears a safe bet.^6

Cost Savings and Performance

Increasingly, however, Model 3 popularity also reflects simple cost and performance advantages versus gas cars, thanks to recent price cuts. With AWD dual motor specs including a 3.1 second 0-60 mph time and 358 miles of driving range, few rivals match this EV athlete.^7 Plus, Teslas enable access to the vast proprietary Supercharger fast-charging network, alleviating road trip range anxiety.

Incentives and Tax Credits

Buyers also respond strongly to incentives when choosing the Model 3. Although Indiana lacks generous state-level programs beyond infrastructure investments noted earlier, federal tax credits take up to $7,500 off the purchase price. That lowers cost of entry for fence-sitters.^8

Diverse factors clearly support the Model 3‘s leading status amongst Indiana EV drivers. Tesla‘s continued US sales leadership into 2023 and influence seem guaranteed short of a major shift away from sedan preferences.^9

#2 – Nissan Leaf

With the Nissan Leaf dating back to 2011, many consider it the original mass market EV. It eschewed flash in favor of simplicity, affordability and adequate range for daily commuting. Turns out that resonates with Indiana drivers even today.

In 2022, Nissan logged over 14,000 Leaf sales nationally and rising used inventories point to healthy prior adoption in the state.^10 Although exact Indiana registration counts remain unavailable, with 40,000 Leafs on American roads as of 2021, the economical hatchback likely claims a strong number-two position.^11

Value and Familiarity

The Leaf‘s value equation starts at $28,040 before any credits and combines capable packaging with 215 miles of range and 147 horsepower output.^12 Time has also bred familiarity, while sustained Nissan marketing provides constant reinforcement.

For Indiana families seeking robustness over flair, the friendly and frugal Leaf eases initial EV concerns. Capable EVs need not break the bank nor pilot‘s license requirements to drive.

Used Market Appeal

The Leaf also paves an ultra-low-cost transition to EV ownership through its used market accessibility. Early models from the past decade easily trade hands privately for $5,000 to $8,000, diluting risks.^13 With Nissan battery packs backed by a generous 8-year/100k mile warranty that transfers, reliability worries also fade.^14

#3 – Chevy Bolt EV

The Chevy Bolt EV‘s popularity likely comes as no surprise either. As an American crossover alternative to the Leaf, the Bolt offers equivalent range at 250 miles with enhanced cargo flexibility. It‘s zippy too, hitting 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds.^15

In 2022, almost 23,000 Bolts found US driveways as the brand doubled down on marketing and incentives.^16 Buyers respond strongly to the effective package and longstanding Chevrolet familiarity. Plus, with GM committed to exclusively electric models by 2035, confidence runs high.^17

Indiana attraction stems from a combination of value, practicality and Liberty Way patriotism. Starting at $27,495 before savings and providing AWD optional unlike the Leaf, the Bolt easily suits most climate conditions and driving needs across the state.^18

Incentives Sweeten Appeal

As with the Model 3, Bolt EV shoppers enjoy bonus incentives. Currently, eligible buyers can save over $9,200 thanks to federal tax credits and a GM discount program.^19 For those running the cost/benefit calculations, these savings seal the deal.

Some risk comes from past battery fire troubles on earlier models, however. But with recalls mostly completed successfully, GM believes the drama faded from Indiana minds.^20 Ongoing warranty coverage also helps assuage lingering concerns.

#4 – Tesla Model S

Tesla strikes again in the fourth spot with its ultra-luxury Model S sedan. Despite high pricing starting at $97,990, this EV pioneer maintains steadfast appeal with Indiana drivers seeking the pinnacle of technological sophistication.^21

Incredible performance from available tri-motor configurations yielding 1,020 horsepower translates acceleration and handling absent from internal combustion comparables. A 3.1 second 0-60 mph sprint is supercar territory. Meanwhile, an expansive 17-inch center touchscreen delivers media, navigation and software elegance years ahead of rivals.^22

Luxury and Status

With room for five adults and nearly 400 miles of driving range, the Model S sells a premium EV experience and serves as an eco-conscious status symbol for Indiana‘s affluent – when they can foot its lofty sticker. Yet, with Tesla selling over 34,000 units stateside last year in a down market, enough customers in Indianapolis high-rise condos and Carmel enclaves clearly manage.^23

Future Classic Appeal

Pre-owned interest and values also hold strong as early adopters begin trading up and positioning the Model S as a future collectible. Expect to find examples with sub-100k miles asking $55,000 to $75,000, affirming impressions of durability.24 For those seeking a preview of EV evolution coming from Tesla‘s even pricier successors like the Roadster, Model S supplies today.

#5 – Kia Soul EV

Rounding out Indiana‘s top five EV list unexpectedly yet deservedly is the Kia Soul EV. No longer in production for the US market and overshadowed by newer corporate siblings like the Niro, the Soul EV flying under the radar also helps explain its used popularity.^25

With extra floor space courtesy of boxier packaging than traditional crossovers, and an affordable sub-$15,000 buy-in, the Soul EV blends practicality with approachability. Early models also claim surprising range, with 2017 occupants trekking 124 miles per charge.^26

Personality and Value

Essentially, the Soul EV spices EV ownership with funky styling, loads of interior room and an accessible entry cost. Indiana appeals to budgets and sensibilities benefitting from operating under the radar. Presumably, awareness spread by word of mouth vs Kia‘s marketing machine.

Soul EV drivers also gain confidence from Kia‘s exceptional 10-year/100k mile battery warranty, topping mostcompetitors.^27 So for Indianapolis residents weary of gas costs but unwilling to compromise lifestyles for driving range, here lies a palatable solution.

EV Ownership Starts at Home

For most Indiana households, reliable home charging rates as a top consideration when evaluating an EV purchase. Fortunately, even entry-level 120V wall outlets generally deliver ample overnight range restoration without expensive upgrades.

Using a standard wall outlet, expect to add ~4 miles of driving distance per hour of charging based on the EV battery size and onboard charger rate.^28 So topping off a 20 kWh battery found in early Nissan Leafs requires under 5 hours plugged in. Faster 240V Level 2 equipment cuts that time to under 2 hours while adding ~25 miles per hour.

Going the home charging route mitigates public infrastructure gaps persisting outside Indiana‘s urban centers. Until recently, your options remained extremely limited beyond Indianapolis city limits. Fortunately, this situation continues improving courtesy of the $100 million mentioned earlier earmarked specifically to enable convenient EV travels across the state.^2

Bright Skies Ahead for Indiana EVs

Industry analysts and policy experts forecast Indiana‘s EV momentum accelerating into the coming years. They cite expanding model options hitting lower price points as battery costs drop, plus strengthened policy support like President Biden‘s electric vehicle charging initiative.^29

And as tweeted recently by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation VP of Energy Development after Tennessee‘s major EV manufacturing plant expansion:

"Indiana is open for business in the EV automotive sector – our central location, robust transportation infrastructure assets and skilled workforce offer key advantages to companies."^30

So for Indiana residents feeling the pull towards emissions-free driving, know your options only look to grow. EV preference and policy both point decisively forward. Now seems the perfect time to leverage tax incentives and shop used markets ahead of inevitable demand and price hikes. Reach out with any questions!

Sources:

1. Indiana EV Registration Data (afdc.energy.gov)
2. Indiana EV Charging Investment (in.gov)
3. Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction Survey (Consumer Reports)
4. Tesla Model 3 Specs/Pricing (tesla.com)
5. 2022 Tesla Sales (goodcarbadcar.net)
6. Typical Tesla Buyer Profile (Recurrent Auto Survey)
7. Tesla Model 3 Performance Specs (caranddriver.com)
8. Federal EV Tax Credits (fueleconomy.gov)
9. Tesla Sales Projections (cleantechnica.com)
10. 2022 Nissan Sales (thedetroitbureau.com)
11. US Nissan Leaf Registrations (statista.com)
12. Nissan Leaf Features (nissanusa.com)
13. Used Nissan Leaf Prices (cargurus.com)
14. Nissan Warranty Information (nissanusa.com)
15. Chevy Bolt Performance Specs (caranddriver.com)
16. 2022 Chevy EV Sales (media.gm.com)
17. GM Electrification Plans (gm.com)
18. Chevy Bolt Features (chevrolet.com)
19. Chevy Bolt Incentives (chevrolet.com)
20. Chevy Bolt Recall Status (cnbc.com)
21. Tesla Model S Pricing (tesla.com)
22. Tesla Model S Performance Specs (caranddriver.com)
23. 2022 Tesla Sales (experian.com)
24. Used Tesla Model S Pricing (electrek.com)
25. Kia Soul EV Overview (caranddriver.com)
26. Used Kia Soul EV Specs (fueleconomy.gov)
27. Kia Warranty Info (kia.com)
28. Home EV Charging Times (chargepoint.com)
29. Biden EV Infrastructure Goals (whitehouse.gov)
30. Indiana EV Manufacturing Tweet (twitter.com)