So you‘re a Virginia driver looking to make the switch to an electric vehicle (EV)? Buckle up, because you have great options to pick from and fantastic incentives to take advantage of!
EV popularity has positively exploded in Virginia with over 18X more registered electric vehicles in 2022 (56,600) versus just 2016. And this EV boom shows no signs of slowing down thanks to policy support and an ever-expanding model lineup from automakers.
In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll overview the EV landscape specific to Virginia drivers and analyze the 6 most in-demand models that should be on your shopping list.
Why EVs Are Taking Over Virginia
Several key tailwinds have thrust electric vehicles into the spotlight for savvy Virginia consumers:
Financial Incentives
Between state and federal initiatives, purchasing an EV in Virginia can unlock:
- $7,500 Federal EV Tax Credit
- $2,500 Virginia EV Rebate
That‘s $10,000 towards your new electric ride! This dramatic discount supercharges EV affordability and value.
Expanding Charging Network
Range anxiety fading away as both state and private investment accelerates charging infrastructure growth to support rising EV adoption. Virginia now has:
- 1,337 public charging stations
- 3,829 charging ports online
I‘ll address charging considerations for each featured EV model.
Model Diversity
Choice is king for consumers. Practically every major automaker now fields competitive EV options crafted for American motorists.
Below I break down the 6 models winning over Virginia drivers by blending tempting tech, everyday usability, and electrifying performance.
Now let‘s examine these EV segment leaders:
1. Tesla Model S
The vehicle that made EVs a status symbol for tech-savvy motorists, the Tesla Model S continues to pace the market in Virginia with unassuming drivers unleashing its formidable performance.
Price
| Trim | Base MSRP |
|---|---|
| Model S | $104,990 |
Battery/Range
The current 100 kWh battery pack allows 405 miles of EPA-rated driving distance. Upcoming Model S deliveries will switch to Tesla‘s new higher-capacity 4680 battery cells, likely enabling even longer range figures.
Performance
In range-topping Plaid form with 1,020 hp, the Model S can rocket you to 60 mph in a physics-defying 1.99 seconds – matching world-class supercars! Even the ‘base‘ Model S churns out a muscular 670 hp allowing 0-60 mph in just 3.1 seconds.
Virginia Ownership Perks
Tesla sweetens the deal further for Old Dominion residents:
- Exempt from state gas taxes
- No emissions testing required
- Seamless access to Tesla‘s vast Supercharger fast charging network spanning major highways in Virginia
Over 6,500 Virginians have already made the Model S their EV of choice – and you‘re likely to keep seeing them pacing left lanes near you!
2. Hyundai Ioniq 5
After sweeping the 2022 World Car Awards in stunning fashion, the attention-grabbing Ioniq 5 compact SUV has won a passionate following in Virginia thanks to its smooth comfortable ride, ultra-fast charging capability, and tech-savvy interior.
Price
| Trim | Base MSRP |
|---|---|
| Ioniq 5 SE | $43,650 |
| Ioniq 5 SEL | $47,150 |
| Ioniq 5 Limited | $50,600 |
Battery/Range
The 77.4 kWh battery yields an EPA-estimated driving range of 303 miles. Upcoming model year updates are expect to push range past 320 miles.
Performance
| Specification | Number |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 225 hp (single motor) 320 hp (dual motor AWD) |
| 0-60 mph | Under 6 seconds |
| Top Speed | 115 mph |
Virginia Incentives
The Ioniq 5 qualifies for both federal tax credits up to $7,500 as well as a $2,500 Virginia EV rebate.
Charging
With 800V battery architecture and support for 350 kW DC fast charging, the Ioniq 5 can juice up from 10% to 80% battery in just 18 minutes! For Virginians needing to make longer trips across the state, this provides welcome fast charging reassurance.
Over 4,000 Ioniq 5s were registered in the U.S. last year and a sizable portion found happy owners in EV-friendly Virginia.
3. Kia EV6
The first dedicated EV from sister automaker Kia impresses with thrilling acceleration, a high-tech interior, and contemporary coupe-like styling inside and out.
Price
| Trim | Base MSRP |
|---|---|
| EV6 Light RWD | $42,115 |
| EV6 Wind RWD | $48,775 |
| EV6 GT Line AWD | $52,415 |
| EV6 GT AWD | $58,895 |
Battery/Range
All non-GT versions pack a 77.4 kWh battery good for 310 miles range. The 576 hp GT performance flagship sees a slight range drop to 274 miles.
Performance
The GT Line and GT models deliver some of the fastest acceleration among non-Tesla EVs with their dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrains:
| Model | Horsepower | 0-60 mph |
|---|---|---|
| GT Line AWD | 320 hp | 4.7 sec |
| GT AWD | 576 hp | 3.4 sec |
Virginia Incentives
Both federal $7,500 tax credits and $2,500 Virginia rebates apply.
Charging
Like its platform sibling, the Ioniq 5, 800V charging enables sub 20-minute 10-80% charging with compatible DC fast chargers. Kia provides new buyers with 1,000 kWh of charging credits on Electrify America‘s network.
Performance-minded shoppers and technophiles alike are finding the Kia EV6 a tempting EV pick in Virginia. Don‘t be surprised if they start appearing en masse alongside Teslas at your local chargers soon!
4. Tesla Model 3
Combining stripped-down styling exterior with a tech-laden interior all backed by Tesla‘s industry-leading charging network, the Model 3 needs little introduction except to ask: what took you so long? This electric star continues seeing sales surge in Virginia.
Price
| Trim | Base MSRP |
|---|---|
| Model 3 RWD | $47,490 |
| Model 3 Long Range AWD | $57,990 |
| Model 3 Perfomance AWD | $63,990 |
Battery/Range
Current 2023 models come equipped with Tesla‘s new 4680 battery cells co-developed with Panasonic to boost range and power density.
| Trim | Range |
|---|---|
| RWD | 272 miles |
| Long Range AWD | 358 miles |
| Performance AWD | 315 miles |
Performance
Even the ‘entry-level‘ RWD Model 3 variant catapults away from stoplights with its 0-60 mph time of just 5.8 seconds. Moving up the range nets considerably quicker acceleration:
| Trim | 0-60 mph |
|---|---|
| Long Range AWD | 4.2 sec |
| Performance AWD | 3.1 sec |
Virginia Incentives
Both federal $7,500 tax credit and Virginia‘s $2,500 rebate fully apply. Sales tax also waived.
Over 15,000 Virginians and counting have welcomed the Model 3 into their lives.ALLEY-OOP! Time to throw your hat in the ring too!
5. Nissan LEAF
Among EV shoppers prioritizing value and familiar driving dynamics, Nissan‘s LEAF remains beloved for its approachable pricing matched to everyday hatchback utility.
Price
| Trim | Base MSRP w/ dest. charge |
|---|---|
| LEAF S | $28,440 |
| LEAF SV Plus | $36,740 |
| LEAF SL Plus | $39,840 |
Battery/Range
Since its last major refresh for the 2022 model year, the LEAF‘s range figures see a nice boost:
| Trim | Range |
|---|---|
| S | 149 miles |
| SV Plus | 212 miles |
| SL Plus | 215 miles |
Performance
Designed for efficient reliable urban mobility over tire-shredding acceleration, the LEAF still offers peppy performance:
| Metric | Number |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 214 hp |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 seconds |
Virginia Incentives
Both federal tax credits and state rebates apply. The LEAF presents a nicely-discounted EV option.
Charging
6.6 kW onboard charger enables full charge overnight from a 240V home charging station. CHAdeMO fast charging port standard.
Over 5% of Virginia‘s registered EV population drives a LEAF thanks no doubt to Nissan‘s value pricing strategy and familiar subcompact design.
6. Ford Mustang Mach-E
While EV early adopters snatched up their Mach-Es, this sleek electric SUV gains popularity with everyday Ford faithful won over by its sporty driving dynamics, high-tech interior, and tempting Mustang-inspired looks.
Price
| Trim | Base MSRP w/ dest. charge |
|---|---|
| Select RWD | $46,895 |
| Premium AWD | $56,575 |
| GT AWD | $69,895 |
Battery/Range
Available with standard or extended range options:
| Trim | Battery | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Select RWD | 68 kWh | 230 miles |
| Premium ER AWD | 91 kWh | 310 miles |
| GT ER AWD | 91 kWh | 260 miles |
Performance
| Metric | Number |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 266-480 hp |
| 0-60 mph | mid 6 sec – 3.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 112 mph |
Virginia Incentives
Both $7,500 federal tax credits and $2,500 Virginia rebates provides thousands in purchase discounts.
Charging
Fast charging capable to add 61 miles range in 10 minutes. 334 hp charge rate supports faster capacity recovery.
Early adopters in Virginia snatched up initial Mach-E allotments, and Ford continues prioritizing the state for additional inventory shipments. Drive one and you‘ll immediately understand the Mustang magic at play!
Pick Your Next EV Adventure
I hope mapping out the EV landscape specific to Virginia and detailing the standout models currently winning over area drivers gives you confidence in joining the electric movement!
Test drive that turns your head, leverage purchase incentives working in your favor, and charge ahead into a sustainable motoring future. Virginia continues rolling out the red carpet for EVs through expanding infrastructure investment and consumer rebates.
Now‘s the time to experience exhilarating instant torque acceleration and futuristic vehicle technology while eliminating gas station fill ups!
I welcome your thoughts on which EV contender grabs your attention for becoming your next daily driver. Reach out with any ownership questions.
Happy electric miles ahead!
