Are you a New Jersey driver considering going electric but not sure where to start? As a long-time Garden State resident and electric vehicle (EV) enthusiast, I‘ve put together this comprehensive guide to the most popular EVs purchased in New Jersey. I‘ll provide essential details on range, performance, pricing, and incentives to help you identify the best EV for your needs. Let‘s explore the top options dominating New Jersey sales today!
Overview
EVs are taking New Jersey by storm thanks to ample rebates, tax credits, and a growing public charging network making electric mobility more accessible. As of January 2023, over 47,830 fully electric vehicles were registered in New Jersey, rising from just 251 in 2011 (Energy.gov). Total EV registrations including hybrid electrics surpass 91,515.
This booming demand is fueled by programs like New Jersey‘s Charge Up, providing residents up to $5,000 off new EV purchases. With the state now targeting 100% EV sales by 2035, momentum will only increase.
Out of the many great EV choices today, five models stand out as most popular with New Jersey drivers based on registration data. Let‘s examine what‘s propelling consumer demand for these leading electric contenders vying for a spot in Garden State garages.
1. Tesla Model 3
As Tesla‘s most affordable model to-date, the nimble electric Model 3 sedan has won over legions of fans since its 2017 launch. Offering a tech-rich driving experience paired with sporty handling and blistering acceleration, it‘s no surprise New Jerseyans have embraced the Model 3 more than any other EV.
| Specs | Value |
|---|---|
| Range | 272 – 358 miles |
| 0 to 60 mph | 3.1 – 5.6 seconds |
| Trim Levels | Standard Range Plus, Long Range, Performance |
| Seating | 5 Adults |
| Brand New Price | $43,490 – $63,990 |
Over 34,000 Model 3s were registered in New Jersey as of January 2023, trouncing sales of any other model. While 2023 price increases have dampened some earlier fervor, the Model 3 remains hard to beat for tech-savvy EV enthusiasts. Between its modern styling, eye-catching performance and growing charging network, the Model 3 checks a lot of boxes for the average New Jersey driver.
2. Tesla Model Y
Following the immense success of the Model 3 sedan, Tesla introduced the more practical Model Y compact SUV in 2020 to rave reviews. Blending ample cargo room and available third-row seating with the exhilarating performance Tesla models are renowned for, the Model Y became an instant hit across family-filled New Jersey.
| Specs | Value |
|---|---|
| Range | 303 – 330 miles |
| 0 to 60 mph | 3.5 – 4.8 seconds |
| Trim Levels | Long Range, Performance |
| Seating | 5-7 Adults |
| Brand New Price | $65,990 – $69,990 |
With all configurations offering sporty driving dynamics, the tech-laden Model Y earned over 15,000 New Jersey registrations by early 2023. For residents requiring ample passenger and cargo space paired with Tesla‘s cutting-edge features, the Model Y is proving hard to pass up.
3. Tesla Model S
No list of popular New Jersey EVs would be complete without the vehicle catalyzing mass-market electric vehicle adoption – the Tesla Model S. Initially debuting in 2012, the Model S luxury sedan has undergone several evolutions over the past decade to keep pace with advancing EV technology. The latest incarnation delivers an EPA-rated 405 miles of driving range and supercar-rivaling acceleration enabling a 2-second 0 to 60 mph sprint.
Beyond straight-line performance, the refreshed Model S provides a showcase for Tesla‘s newest software and battery innovations. With its sprawling 17-inch center touchscreen and optional yoke steering wheel, the latest Model S continues pushing the boundaries on what an EV can deliver.
| Specs | Value |
|---|---|
| Range | 405 miles |
| 0 to 60 mph | 2.3 seconds |
| Trim Levels | Model S, Plaid |
| Seating | 5 Adults |
| Brand New Price | $104,990 – $135,990 |
Priced from $104,990, the 2023 Tesla Model S offers Porsche and Mercedes levels of luxury paired with emissions-free performance – a compelling combination that over 11,500 New Jersey motorists have upgraded to as of early 2023.
4. Nissan LEAF
Transitioning from a luxury EV to one of the most affordably priced options statewide, the Nissan LEAF has earned a spot as a popular New Jersey EV thanks to reasonable pricing and consistent upgrades keeping it feeling fresh. As the first mass-production electric car launching in 2010, the LEAF has legitimate history behind it as well.
Now in its second generation guise, the 2023 Nissan LEAF Plus model touts an EPA-rated 215 miles of range -ample for daily commuting needs. With seating for 5 adults, abundant safety technology and a practical hatchback design, the LEAF presents a well-rounded electric choice.
| Specs | Value |
|---|---|
| Range | 215 miles |
| 0 to 60 mph | 6.5 seconds |
| Trim Levels | S Plus, SV Plus, SL Plus |
| Seating | 5 Adults |
| Brand New Price | $36,040 – $43,440 |
Priced before incentives from $36,040, the Nissan LEAF balances modest performance with approachable access. For New Jersey residents not requiring AWD or copious range for weekend road trips, the LEAF Plus satisfies locally-focused mobility needs.
5. Ford E-Transit
Shifting gears from the retail consumer market, the Ford E-Transit has emerged as a rapidly growing commercial EV solution across New Jersey. Offering work van versatility with an all-electric powertrain tailored for regional delivery or hauling jobs, over 2,500 E-Transit vans are already operating locally.
For small business owners, the E-Transit provides an affordable gateway to electrification. With configurable cargo dimensions and a maximum payload of 4,260 pounds on certain models, commercial capabilities aren‘t compromised. Factor in public charging accessibility and this EV adds up for New Jersey entities focused on costs.
| Specs | Value |
|---|---|
| Range | 126 miles |
| Payload | Up to 4,260 pounds |
| Body Configs | Van, Cutaway, Chassis Cab |
| Cargo Capacity | Up to 487.3 cu ft |
| Brand New Price | $47,185+ |
Offering practical commercial specs on an EV platform businesses can utilize locally, the Ford E-Transit has attracted legions of customers spanning delivery firms, contractors, municipalities and private companies. With robust incentives for commercial EV buyers in New Jersey, demand is poised to continue rising exponentially.
Conclusion
While Tesla models currently dominate New Jersey EV sales, increased variety catering to a wider spectrum of needs points to segment growth ahead. From affordable sedans like the LEAF to capacious SUVs like the Model Y and commercial vehicles like the E-Transit, compelling EV options exist for most lifestyles and use cases.
As more next-generation EVs from legacy automakers arrive boasting extended range and tempting tech, consumer adoption will flourish. Combined with New Jersey‘s expanding charging network and long-term environmental initiatives favoring electric mobility, EVs as daily drivers will only become more entrenched locally in the years ahead.
For residents seeking to embrace an electric future today, the models profiled here present a great starting point. Each offering provides practical utility tailored to New Jersey drivers through unique strengths setting them apart. Ultimately when choosing the best EV, factoring one‘s budget, lifestyle needs and environmental aspirations will guide the way.
