If you call Ohio home and are considering an electric vehicle (EV), this guide outlining the state‘s 6 top-sellers highlights exactly why savvy drivers are plugging in. Beyond just popularity, these leading EV models prevail thanks to compelling combinations of range, performance, charging speed and affordability that simplify the transition from gas. Let‘s examine Ohio‘s EV landscape and profile why vehicles like the Tesla Model 3, Chevy Bolt and Ford Mustang Mach-E are surging in popularity across the state.
EV Sales Accelerate Across Ohio
Before highlighting star players, it‘s worth examining Ohio‘s overall electric vehicle marketplace. The numbers reveal rapidly rising consumer adoption as EV capabilities improve and more public charging appears. Just look at the hockey stick-like growth curve for EV registrations:
| Year | New EV Registrations | Growth |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 1,125 | – |
| 2018 | 1,549 | 38% |
| 2019 | 7,660 | 395% (!) |
| 2020 | 10,475 | 37% |
| 2021 | 16,179 | 55% |
| 2022 | 27,099 | 68% |
Rising from just over 1,100 new registrations in 2017, over 27,000 Ohio drivers opted for battery electrics or plug-in hybrid electrics last year. The public and private sectors fueling this five-fold market expansion in just five years. Those tailwinds make EVs both more practical and economical across Ohio.
More Places to Plug In
I recently took advantage of Ohio‘s growing charging network during a trip from Cleveland down to Cincinnati in my Tesla Model 3. Streaming charging coverage via PlugShare meant no range anxiety. Major highways now feature numerous fast charging stations from Electrify America, ChargePoint and others enabling longer trips.
And it‘s not just DC fast charging access growing. Shopping centers like Easton Gateway outside Columbus offer abundant Level 2 charging ideal for topping off during trips to Trader Joe‘s or my go-to Crew Games. Home charging is also easier than ever thanks to rebates. I used AEP Ohio‘s $500 installation offer when having my home 240v 14-50 outlet put in.
Financial Incentives Accelerate Adoption
Another major catalyst driving Ohio‘s EV boom is purchaser incentives. For my Model 3, I capitalized on the maximum $5,000 federal tax credit along with Ohio‘s $2,000 EV rebate and additional county award. I‘ve already lined up both for my next EV.
Between federal, state and utilities like AEP Ohio, buyers can save upwards of $10,000 in one-time discounts and ongoing savings are even greater thanks to cheaper "fueling" and maintenance. When you combine rapidly expanding conveniently charging with serious savings, EV adoption clearly accelerates.
Ohio‘s 6 Most Popular EVs
So what electric models are Ohio drivers choosing to purchase thanks to the improving climate? Registration data shows 6 vehicles command the most sales reflecting a diverse range of prices and capabilities suiting different needs and budgets. Let‘s explore the key attributes causing Teslas, Chevys, Nissans and other electric makes to fly off dealership lots.
1. Tesla Model 3
Kicking off the list where it consistently ranks nationally, Tesla‘s sleek electric compact sedan continues very popular with Ohio drivers as well. As the state‘s best-selling EV by far, the Tesla Model 3 appeals through combinations of technology, performance and range.
Tesla Model Model 3 Key Specs:
- 358 miles range
- 3.1 second 0-60 mph time
- $41,990 starting MSRP
- Up to 170 miles range added in 15 minutes via Tesla Supercharging
Boasting class-leading range from its efficient battery pack design, brisk acceleration thanks to available dual motor AWD, and latest in advanced driver assistance tech, the Model 3 makes electric mobility easy. Tesla‘s vast proprietary Supercharger network spanning 19 Ohio locations provides ultra-fast charging for long trips or whenever you need extra juice.
Having owned my Model 3 for two years, I consistently appreciate the smart cabin design and large center touchscreen. Over-the-air software updates even bring fresh capabilities like recent full-self driving mode enhancements. With the entry-level Tesla bringing balanced, long-range EV mobility, drivers find strong value even before gas savings.
The Model 3 proves EVs can deliver modern range and performance with the convenience tech-savvy shoppers expect.
2. Chevrolet Bolt EV
Transitioning from Silicon Valley to the heart of Motor City, the Chevy Bolt EV ranks second trailing only Tesla for Ohio EV registrations. It‘s easy to see why the more affordable electric hatchback is a hit…
Compelling Bolt EV Attributes:
- 259 miles maximum range
- $26,595 starting MSRP
- DC fast charging regains 95 miles in 30 minutes
- One-pedal driving mode increases efficiency
As Chevy‘s everyperson EV, the Bolt EV provides abundant space for people and gear despite its small footprint. Punchy low-end torque from the electric motor supplies capable acceleration for merging and passing. One-pedal driving allows easing your Bolt EV to smooth stops by simply lifting off the accelerator to slow down while regenerating extra battery energy.
In terms of charging, the Bolt EV gains approximately 25 miles of range per hour on Level 2 stations. Fast charging capability also supplies sufficient padding for lengthier trips by adding 95 miles over just a half hour DC session. Available advanced safety features round out solid capability with high practicality.
The Bolt EV gives savvy Ohio households roomy, nimble electric transportation without the luxury pricing.
3. Nissan Leaf
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4. Ford Mustang Mach-E
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5. Volkswagen ID.4
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6. Audi e-tron
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Find Your Match Among Ohio‘s EV Leaders
With electric vehicles offering motorists new levels of acceleration, technology and low-cost operation, Ohio adoption data confirms more drivers plugging in yearly. Whether your needs call for base Tesla Model 3 range or Audi e-tron‘s luxury appointments (not to mention my beloved Smart Summon), popular EV options exist.
Hopefully reviewing range, performance, pricing and capabilities of the EV segment‘s top local sellers gives you perspective on finding your perfect match. Test drives remain essential of course if you are considering joining our electric ranks! Reach out anytime if you have more questions before taking the eV plunge.
