You may have noticed more electric vehicles on Illinois roads recently. With supportive EV policies and an expanding charging network, the state‘s EV registrations grew an astounding 95% to over 36,000 in 2021. National market data shows a clear preference among Illinois drivers for four models that deliver an intoxicating mix of innovation, capability and value. Let‘s explore what sets them apart.
EV Adoption Accelerating in Illinois
In 2021 alone, Illinois saw:
- 36,520 EVs registered, up 95% from 2020
- Over 2,100 public charging ports installed across the state
- $4,000 state rebates for EV purchases quadrupled to over $28 million
This growth aligns with Illinois‘ goal to put 1 million EVs on state roads by 2030. Attractive purchase incentives, readily available public charging, and growing model choices are enticing motorists to go electric quicker than forecasted.
| EV Registrations | Public Charging Ports | Purchase Rebates |
|---|---|---|
| 36,520 | 6,800 | $28 million |
Several models clearly resonate with Illinois drivers more than others, so let‘s explore the four runaway hits.
Tesla Model S – Pinnacle of Electric Performance
Since its debut over 10 years ago, Model S set the standard for long-range electric luxury. Demand among affluent EV fans remains strong for good reason. Beyond seating for five grown adults, the interior pampers occupants with available massaging front seats, a panoramic glass roof, and an enormous 17-inch center touchscreen display.
Over-the-air software updates continuously add new capabilities, including gaming, entertainment services, and performance boosts. Real-world tests prove both the 405-mile Long Range and 396-mile ultra-performance Plaid variants reliably meet or even exceed range estimates. In fact, Model S PlaidPlus prototypes already travel 390 miles between charges.
| Variant | 0-60 mph | Range | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long Range | 3.1s | 405 miles | $104,990 |
| Plaid | 2.3s (!) | 396 miles | $138,990 |
Clearly, Model S redefines both electric range and acceleration while cradling occupants in luxury. For all these superlatives, Tesla dominates among wealthy EV fans.
Nissan Leaf – Mainstream Mover
As the world‘s first mass-market affordable EV dating back to 2010, Nissan Leaf democratized electric mobility for the masses. Having sold over 600,000 globally, Leaf remains the world‘s best-selling EV behind Tesla. Today‘s 2023 model extends ranges up to 215 miles courtesy of a 62 kWh battery. Pricing holds in the low $30,000s even before applicable incentives – an undeniable value.
Inside, vibrant trim colors contrast with modern shapes to create an airy, welcoming ambiance. Families will appreciate the abundant passenger and cargo room within its compact hatchback footprint. Standard connectivity and driver assistance features add both entertainment and security. Simply put, Leaf remains a joy to live with years into its lifecycle.
| Range | 0-60 mph | Battery | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 215 miles | 6.5 s | 62 kWh | $28,895 |
While Tesla garners prestige, stalwarts like the Nissan Leaf continue building EV adoption through sheer affordability and reliability.
Ford F-150 Lightning – The Electric Truck Tamer
America‘s best-selling vehicle for four decades, the F-150 pickup just gained a whole new reptilian twist as the 2023 F-150 Lightning. Equipped with an extended range battery enabling up to 320 miles between plug-ins, it tames both daily commuting and rugged weekend warrior duties without performance compromises.
Two electric motors feed juice through all four wheels while churning out 563 horsepower. That‘s enough to sprint the Lighting from 0-60 mph in just over 4 seconds – quicker than a Porsche 718 Cayman GT4. Lightning can even power tools at job sites or entire households during electrical outages thanks to its onboard power outlets.
| Range | Horsepower | 0-60 mph | Towing | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 320 miles | 563 | 4.5s | 10,000 pounds | $48,769+ |
Given America‘s obsession with pickup trucks, the F-150 Lightning seems destined for fame among contractors, ranchers and weekend warriors alike.
Volkswagen ID.4 – Electric Expectations
Despite being a brand new entry, Volkswagen‘s ID.4 electric SUV already graces driveways of eco-conscious families across Illinois. As VW‘s first global EV tailored specifically around battery-electric propulsion, this five-seater redefines expectations of affordability in a family-friendly SUV wrapper.
Even before applicable incentives, ID.4 stickers from an impressively thrifty $37,495 while treating occupants to premium amenities like heated seats and steering wheel, 12-inch infotainment display, adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and more. Beyond ample passenger space, the 30.3 cubic-foot cargo hold swallows bulky items with the 2nd row folded.
| Range | Horsepower | 0-60 mph | Price | Incentives |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 275 miles | 295 | 5.8 s | $37,495 | $7,500 |
This combination of slippery aerodynamics, an all-electric platform, and value pricing checks all the boxes for practical daily transportation. The ID.4 sets new expectations for affordable electric mobility right-sized for young families.
Clearly these four compelling EVs each cultivate passionate followings among Illinois drivers based on strengths matching their unique needs. As public chargers multiply and new choices like the Chevrolet Silverado EV pickup broaden the horizon, the electric options list keeps getting better. Whether you crave prestige motoring, maximum practicality or light-duty electrification, these leading EVs deliver.
Now pictured more frequently along the shores of Lake Michigan and cruising along the Mississippi River Valley, EVs represent Illinois‘ future – cleaner, quieter and filled with possibilities.
