Electric vehicles (EVs) are exploding in popularity across Nevada. As these high-tech yet economical cars and SUVs hit the streets in growing numbers, distinct buyer preferences emerge based on how Nevadans drive.
By studying the latest Nevada DMV registration statistics, we uncover the EV models proving most popular and why drivers are choosing them. Read on as we count down Nevada‘s top 6 electric vehicles and explore what‘s supercharging demand amid the state‘s EV boom.
Nevada Paves the Road for Electric Vehicles
But first, what are electric cars and why is Nevada at the forefront of EV adoption?
Electric vehicles use rechargeable battery packs to power an electric motor, rather than burning fossil fuels like gasoline. This makes EVs highly energy efficient and environmentally friendly. Many deliver over 200+ miles of driving range per charge, quashing fears of getting stranded without power.
Nevada is rising as a leading EV growth state thanks to visionary policies and investments:
- Clean Cars Nevada Act (2021): Requires automakers to sell more electric models locally through 2030, expanding choice
- $100 Million Utility EV Infrastructure Fund: Approved for building public fast chargers across Nevada
- Nevada Electric Highway: Links Reno-to-Vegas through EV charging stations every 50 miles
With more models to choose from and enhanced charging access enabling longer trips, Nevada drivers are plugging in. Statewide, over 17,000 EVs registered as of 2021 – a 2X jump in just two years!
Now let‘s reveal the top electric models Nevadan‘s are embracing as the technology advances.
#1 – Tesla Model S
The speedy, high-tech Tesla Model S luxury sedan captures Nevada’s top EV spot. Lauded as the vehicle that made electric cars cool, the flagship Model S offers up to 396 miles of range allowing both daily commutes and weekend road trips.
The Model S really flexes performance too – hitting 60 mph in under 2 seconds in high-output “Plaid” trim. No surprise Teslas prove hugely popular in this tourism hub. The automaker dominates Nevada EV sales, aided by multiple service centers and its vast Supercharger fast charging network located statewide.
With advanced tech like OTA software updates and video game-like interfaces, exceptional range, hyper performance trims to satisfy "need for speed" desires, and readily available charging, the groundbreaking yet refined Model S checks all boxes for Nevada drivers.
Price: $94,990+
Range (Long Range): 396 miles
Performance (Plaid): 0-60 mph in 1.99 sec
#2 – Tesla Model X
Tesla rides its triumphant momentum with Nevada’s #2 most registered EV – the Model X crossover SUV. Similar to the S, the tech-laden Model X can achieve over 300 miles range while the high-performance Plaid version outraces nearly any car made at just 2.5 seconds to 60 mph.
But as Tesla’s only SUV model, the Model X also proves popular thanks to its seven seat configuration and expansive cargo room. That makes it as practical for family road trips as it is thrilling to drive on backroad adventures.
The Model X‘s available AWD dual motor powertrain also helps retain range and traction across Nevada‘s varied terrain from the arid deserts to the snow-dusted mountains surrounding Lake Tahoe. Priced from $120,000+, the Model X reaches for the sky as Nevada’s premiere electric luxury SUV.
Price: $120,990
Range (Long Range): 333 miles
Cargo Capacity: 88 cu ft
Nevada EV Registrations:
| Year | Total EVs | New EVs | Tesla |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 7,300 | 2,200 | 1,500 |
| 2021 | 17,380 | 4,900 | 3,800 |
Nevada DMV Registration Data
#3 – Nissan Leaf
As the world’s first mainstream electric car dating back to 2010, the Nissan Leaf has built an enormous global fanbase – over 600,000 sold to date including many Nevadans!
The Leaf keeps costs down by using dependable lithium-ion battery packs versus pricier but faster charging lithium phosphate technology in Models S/X. Yet the 2021 Leaf Plus model still achieves a healthy 215 miles EPA range at just $28,000 MSRP – making it Nevada’s most affordable EV with ample capabilities for everyday commuting.
Small and nimble, the Leaf feels lively and fun to steer. Regenerative braking can slow the car down rapidly too, saving energy. Though not a performance maven, value-focused Nevada buyers appreciate the Leaf’s practicality as reflected by strong used EV sales. Driven gently, early Leafs still retain decent range even after many years.
Price: $28,000 (2023 Leaf Plus)
Range: 215 miles
Total Sold: Over 600,000 Globally
#4 – BMW i3
Proving popular amongst luxury-seeking Nevada customers is BMW’s quirky i3 electric hatchback. Its swift acceleration, crisp handling, and surprisingly spacious interior belie its compact footprint. While rated for just 153 miles range, the car‘s small size suits the average American‘s 40-mile daily commute.
First launched in 2014, BMW will soon discontinue i3 production to shift focus toward newer models. But strong used sales keep the futuristic i3 a common sight on Nevada roads – its funky styling and swift performance make the i3 perhaps the Golden State‘s most distinctive EV.
Price: Discontinued (Used ~$20,000)
Range: 153 miles
Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 6.8 sec
#5 – Volvo XC40 Recharge
As a premier Swedish automaker, Volvo enters the all-electric arena with its first dedicated battery model – the XC40 Recharge compact luxury SUV.
Lauded for gorgeous styling inside and out plus a safe, upscale design, the XC40 Recharge can sprint to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds despite its eco-friendly power source. Step inside the thoughtfully-crafted cabin to enjoy panoramic views, sustainable materials like microfiber upholstery, and Google‘s Android Automotive OS running on a center touchscreen.
The XC40 also shines on longer road trips courtesy of an advanced charging system that can replenish its 78 kWh battery pack from 10% to 80% capacity in under 40 minutes. These smart luxuries in a neatly-sized yet mighty SUV make the XC40 Recharge especially popular for adventure-loving singles or couples residing in Nevada’s urban centers.
Price: $55,300
Range: 223
Charging: 10-80% in 37 mins
#6 – Chevy Bolt EV
Last but not least, Chevrolet attracts Nevada EV buyers keen on space efficiency with its affordable Bolt EV hatchback. The surprisingly capacious Bolt offers seating for five plus nearly 57 cubic feet of storage with the rear seats folded. It zips from 0-60 mph in just 6.5 seconds too while delivering 2.9 miles driving range per kWh – among the industry’s most efficient electric powertrains.
Priced below $27,000 including potential rebates, the Bolt shines as a mass-market EV for rideshare drivers and young families alike. New for 2023, the Bolt EV now enables quicker DC fast charging to add 100 miles range in just 30 minutes. Add confident handling and Chevy’s signature reliability at a reasonable price, and the Bolt EV checks all the boxes for pragmatic Nevada car shoppers.
Price: $26,500
Range: 259 miles
Charging: Add 100 miles in 30 mins
The Road Ahead
As covered in this electric guide, Nevada drivers clearly favor EVs delivering outstanding range, rapid charging, and latest tech innovations given their usage needs traversing long distances in a mountainous state with urban centers.
With greater EV model availability on the horizon thanks to policies like the Clean Cars Act combined with new charger installations across highways to unlock long-range travel, we forecast over 50,000 EVs registered statewide by 2025. That equates to a registration increase between 20-25% annually in the years ahead.
Among the models covered, Tesla appears poised to dominate while mass-market choices like the Chevy Bolt and Nissan Leaf fill essential affordable sectors. The premium yet funky BMW i3 demonstrates vibrant niche demand as well.
Given Nevada‘s investing ahead of the curve in EV infrastructure combined with tourism, tech, and outdoor recreation defining its culture, we fully expect it to emerge among America‘s highest per capita adopters of electric vehicles. Drivers would do well to plug into these futurist models that better align with the Silver State‘s character.
