The 7 Most Popular EVs in New Hampshire: An In-Depth Spotlight

New Hampshire may be small, but interest in electric vehicles (EVs) burns brightly among our ecologically-minded residents. As an experienced data analyst tracking EV adoption regionally and nationwide, I‘m excited to provide this friendly, comprehensive spotlight illuminating the models leading the charge across the Granite State.

Whether you‘re just starting to explore an EV purchase or hungry for the latest ownership insights from your fellow New Hampshire drivers, let‘s navigate key considerations, trends, and the stand-out strengths that make these 7 EVs our most registered.

Zooming Out: EVs Claim Growing Market Share

Demand for electric vehicles surges exponentially nationally year after year. 2021 US EV sales jumped an astounding 83% over 2020 to reach nearly 630,000 vehicles![1] Experts attribute the hockey stick growth curve to expanding model availability at progressively more affordable price points. Based on major automaker electrification commitments, zero emissions vehicles could achieve an incredible 70% of new car sales by 2030 according to Bloomberg forecasts.2

New Hampshire tracks modestly behind the broader adoption wave with EVs representing just 0.57% of registered vehicles based on the latest July 2022 statistics.3 However, our state witnessed 130% year-over-year registration growth in the past six months – brisk momentum I expect to continue accelerating.

Stronger policy incentives play an indispensable role driving EV purchases by defraying upfront costs. Currently New Hampshire offers:

• $1,000 Point of Sale Rebatewards new EV purchases and leases4
• Study commission exploring additional consumer incentives5
• Volkswagen Dieselgate Settlement funding EV fast charging infrastructure expansion6

Let‘s survey how the national transition towards electric mobility manifests itself in our beloved Granite State by profiling our residents‘ most popular models.

#1 – Tesla Model 3: Range, Performance & Charging Network Access

Since its launch, the Tesla Model 3 sedan has singularly dominated EV sales charts. New Hampshire proves no exception with over 1,500 registered – nearly double its next closest competitor!

By the Numbers:

Buyers flock to the Model 3 as Tesla‘s most affordable model unlocking the brand‘s strengths: industry-leading range, blistering acceleration, high-tech features and proprietary Supercharger fast charging network access enabling long distance travel.

New Hampshire‘s typical compact, congested roadways suit the Tesla experience. Owners praise the near-telepathic throttle response rocketing from intersections or merging onto highways. All-wheel drive dual motor variants handle our snowy winters confidently as well. Over-the-air software updates add functionality and value for years post-purchase.

By pioneering high production volume EVs keeping pace with conventional luxury marques, Tesla appeals widely as THE aspirational EV to own. From college students to professionals to retirees, I expect sightings of the streamlined Model 3 to skyrocket across New Hampshire highways and neighborhood driveways alike.

#2 – Chevrolet Bolt EV: Roominess & Value Meet EV Driving Range

Ranking second with 13% New Hampshire market share, the Chevy Bolt EV‘s popularity proves mainstream brands‘ electrified offerings resonate locally too. Its highway range nearly matches early Model 3 versions at 259 EPA-rated miles yet undercuts Tesla‘s starting price by over $15,000.

Vital Stats:

Practical hatchback proportions house impressive interior room making the Bolt surprisingly capacious. Families laud the abundant legroom and ability to fit bulky items like strollers or sports gear when the 60/40 split rear seat folds flat.

GM positions their elder EV ambassador as an affordable, approachable gateway. Recent discounts knock transaction prices comfortably below $30,000 in reach of economy car shoppers. Combined with brisk acceleration and modern tech features like phone integration and Wi-Fi hotspot connectivity, the Bolt deserves attention from pragmatic New Hampshire drivers.

#3 – Tesla Strikes Again With the Model Y Crossover

Tesla clearly holds decisive favor among Granite Staters! Beyond the Model 3, 11% of local EV registrations belong to the Model Y midsize crossover introduced just three years ago in early 2020.

Factoring in the Figures:

|| Measurement |
|-|-|
| Max Range | 330 miles |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs |
| Ground Clearance | 6.6 inches |
| Available 7 Seats | $3,000 Option |

Sharing DNA with the popular Model 3 sedan, the Model Y adopts a slightly taller, boxier physique adding functionality. Generous glass surrounds the greenhouse yielding excellent outward visibility accentuating the commanding, imperious road presence expected from an SUV.

All-wheel drive, adaptive air suspension, and potent performance even besting the vaunted Mustang Mach 1 affirm Tesla won‘t soften their vehicles‘ radically fun character. Yet the Model Y also introduces 3 rows of seating on certain variants to swallow extra passengers or gear for weekend adventure.

Forecasters peg the Model Y reaching pole position as the country‘s top selling EV by 2025.7 New Hampshire crowds clearly crave both efficiency and roomy utility.

#4 – The EV OG Nissan Leaf Soldiers On

The Nissan Leaf pioneered mainstream electric motoring for everyday drivers starting way back in 2010! 12 years and over 60 EPA range improving iterations later, the Leaf remains New Hampshire motorists‘ 4th most popular EV. Its staying power speaks to operational normalcy mastered through maturity.

Reviewing the Spec Sheet:

|| Values |
|-|-|
| Range | 149-215 miles |
| Battery Chemistry | Lithium-ion |
| Charging Port | CHAdeMO |
| Available All Wheel Drive | Yes |

Nissan packs value appeal into the Leaf with sub-$30,000 trim pricing through state and potential federal incentives. An all-encompassing bumper to bumper warranty soothes reliability concerns that plagued early adopters.

While no longer the sole mid-priced EV contender, familiarity with the pioneering Leaf and dealer test drive access advantage Nissan. The biggest drawback stems from CHAdeMO fast charging incompatibility with networks prioritizing the combo standard.

#5 – Ford Mustang Mach-E Blends Heritage With An Electric Future

Despite initial grumblings from Mustang purists, the Mustang Mach-E extended range electric SUV excels as a halo for Ford‘s forthcoming EV lineup. 300+ registrations in New Hampshire and counting give the Blue Oval bragging rights outselling key rivals like Volkswagen‘s ID.4.

Thundering to the Top:

|| Measurement |
|-|-|
| Range | 224-312 miles |
| Horsepower | 266-480 |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration | 3.5-6.1 seconds |
| Max Tow Rating | 2,000-4,000 lbs |

Make no mistake, the Mach-E proudly carries Ford‘s performance pedigree. Select GT models blast to 60 mph in a ludicrous 3.5 seconds – quicker than Shelby‘s fire-breathing 526 hp Mustang GT500! Sophisticated magnetorheological dampers, sticky summer performance tires, and one pedal driving via aggressive regenerative braking amplify cornering reflexes.

Despite intense dynamics, cool tech like Phone As A Key functionality, available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving assistance and the latest SYNC infotainment keep the Mach-E feeling fresher than muscle cars of yore.

|| ||

Credit Ford for imbuing their initial volley into EVs with equal parts heritage and futurism through a nameplate sparking passion for over 55 years and running.

#6 – Luxury & Efficiency Harmonize in Audi‘s E-Tron

New Hampshire loves indulging in refined European vehicles, especially those flaunting the four ringed Audi badge. The E-Tron SUV smartly translates Audi opulence into an all-electric format with241 registered statewide so far.

Packaged to Impress:

Slotting into Audi‘s crossover lineup between the compact Q5 and midsize Q7 dimensions-wise, the E-Tron‘s impeccably trimmed, tech-rich cabin coddles occupants in familiar luxury trappings. Augmented turn-by-turn directions factor charging needs into route guidance via MMI navigation, while standard DC fast charging access up to 150 kW relieves range anxiety during road trips.

On the performance front, a Boost Mode-empowered version dialing up to 496 horsepower rips from 0-60 in a blistering 4.3 seconds. The composed, planted ride feels equally at home smoothly devouring highway miles or attacking back road sweepers.

For those seeking both Audi‘s revered quality and leading-edge electrification, the E-Tron delivers beautifully upon its competitive $65,900 base price.

#7 – Volkswagen‘s Electric Redemption Story: The ID.4

The ID.4‘s first model year appearance on New Hampshire‘s most registered EV list honors Volkswagen‘s commitment towards rectifying Dieselgate woes and catalyzing electrification earlier than any legacy automaker.

Vee-Dub Strikes Back:

Sharing the same flexible EV platform destined for dozens of variants from compacts to vans to luxury sedans, the ID.4 targets America‘s favorite body style – compact SUVs. Top trims deliver 275 miles range surpassing segment stalwarts Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid.

Pricing undercuts combustion counterparts by thousands rather than relying on subsidies and incentives. Leasing deals as little as $379 / month sweeten frugal running costs further even before the societal benefits from emissions reduction. 8

Prospective owners debate riding the leading edge of VW‘s EV revolution as remaining infrastructure and support ecosystem questions persist. Still, the ID.4‘s early traction against deeply entrenched players shows meaningful progress towards mainstream appeal.

Braving NH Winters & Planning Long Journeys

Snow – Cold winter weather cuts EV efficiency noticeably, but modern battery thermal management systems minimize extremes. Expect 10-30% range loss dependent on outside temps and cabin heating demands from seat warmers and defrosters. Precondition battery packs while plugged in to reduce shock transitioning from garages. Schedule charging to finish before departure to prevent freezing cord issues.

Hill Climbing – Grades sap momentum disproportionately until drivetrains adjust. Maintaining speed uphill then regenerating downhill using one pedal driving modes helps optimize net consumption.

DC Fast Charging Access Critical for Long Trips – Cars with 200+ mile ranges easily handle most New Hampshire daily needs, but fast charging enables longer trips to see relatives or vacation afar. The state‘s corridors host approximately 40 locations presently with more funded by Volkswagen settlement dollars coming. 9 When planning, apps like A Better Routeplanner seamlessly incorporate charging stops.

I expect addressing cold weather operation and limited charging structure supporting interstate journeys will catalyze even faster EV adoption once conquered. Manufacturers pour immense resources towards these exact pain points.

Eyeing the Horizon: Flurries of New EVs Flood the Market

The next few years promise a blizzard of additional EV options as startups and established automakers accelerate rollouts. From Apple‘s potential debut to performance trucks by Rivian and Hummer capturing attention, choices explode!

I predict models balancing ranges between 250-300 miles (alleviating range anxiety) with sticker prices about $45,000 stand the best odds claiming sales crown from Tesla. These Goldilocks offerings blend aspirational appeal with attainability for upper middle-income two-car households. They must also nail charging convenience and cold weather operation as the Mach-E and Volkswagen‘s offerings emphasize.

Of course, predicting consumer enthusiasm and loyalty bypasses neat equations. Tesla continues investing billions expanding charging networks granting open access to rivals by 2024 in the U.S. 10 Will New Hampshire‘s steadfast support waiver post-Musk Twitter drama? Can the Equinox EV steal Bolt devotees on familiarity alone? If Rivian‘s R1T delivers reliably alongside its patina of adventurousness, I could see the Ford F-150‘s electric reign challenged given Rivian‘s NH headquarters.

I‘m positive coming years will surprise analysts like myself regularly as EV options flower across categories, capabilities soar exponentially thanks to software enhancements, and new brands establish themselves through electrification. Buckle up for the ride!

What EVs spark your fancy for meeting New Hampshire‘s transportation needs sustainably? Let me know your thoughts and reactions to this guide! I‘m glad to offer personalized insight or buyer tips.

*[1]: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/g35562831/ev-sales-2021/