Electric vehicles are no longer just about thrilling acceleration or off-road adventures. The real key to widespread EV adoption lies in family cars. Families are the driving force in nearly every car market segment, from spacious crossovers to versatile pickup trucks. The upcoming years present a significant challenge for electric vehicle manufacturers: delivering what family car buyers truly need – practicality, ample space, affordability, and robust safety features, all while maintaining a touch of luxury and style. It’s hardly surprising that the best-selling EV in America is a practical crossover offering an optional third row, perfectly catering to family needs.
As we move forward into this decade, the family EV market is poised for substantial growth and diversification. Exciting new models have recently been launched, presenting compelling and reasonably priced electric options for families. Here’s our curated list of the best family EVs you can buy right now, each excelling in different key areas.
Best All-Around Family EV: Kia EV9
Starting MSRP: $54,900
Seats: 7
Range: 230 to 304 miles
Kia has already proven its understanding of family needs with the incredibly successful Telluride, a three-row crossover that balances practicality and affordability with a distinctive and premium feel. The all-new Kia EV9 seamlessly translates this winning formula into the electric vehicle world, and arguably, elevates it. This impressive EV delivers a comprehensive package perfect for families. It features three rows of usable seats, offering versatility for both passengers and cargo. With the third row folded down, you gain access to a generous 43.5 cubic feet of cargo space. Depending on the trim, the EV9 boasts a solid range of 270 to 304 miles. Built on the advanced E-GMP platform, it incorporates cutting-edge fast-charging technology, capable of replenishing the battery to a full charge in as little as 25 minutes. Beyond its practical attributes, the EV9 stands out with its award-winning design and a sophisticated infotainment system. The Kia EV9 isn’t just the electric equivalent of the Telluride; it surpasses it, setting a new benchmark for family EVs.
Best Family EV for Space: Rivian R1S
Starting MSRP: $75,900
Seats: 7
Range: 258 to 410 miles
Families often require vehicles that can accommodate both passengers and a significant amount of cargo. The Rivian R1S excels in providing exactly that: abundant space. Need to transport sports equipment, luggage, or camping gear? The R1S provides a substantial 48.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row folded. Furthermore, with the additional front trunk (frunk), the total potential cargo capacity expands to an impressive 104.7 cubic feet. The spacious second row can comfortably fit three car seats side-by-side, and the third row can accommodate two more passengers. Functionally, the Rivian R1S offers the practicality of a minivan but with significantly enhanced off-road capabilities and a more adventurous spirit. It’s a spacious and versatile electric SUV perfectly suited for active families.
Best Family EV for Safety: Tesla Model Y
Starting MSRP: $44,990
Seats: Up to 7
Range: 260 to 320 miles
While Tesla’s CEO may frequently grab headlines, the undeniable success of the Tesla Model Y speaks for itself, particularly in terms of safety. The Model Y has consistently achieved outstanding results in safety assessments, establishing itself as a leader in its class. Notably, the Model Y is the sole midsize or larger electric SUV to have earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ designation for 2024. It achieved the highest possible “Good” rating in every crash test and crash avoidance evaluation conducted by the IIHS. Furthermore, the Model Y has also aced the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests, securing 5-star ratings from both organizations. The Tesla Model Y’s exceptionally low rollover risk of just 7.9%, as recorded by the NHTSA, is the best score among all SUVs they have ever tested. For families prioritizing safety, the Tesla Model Y is a top contender.
Best Family EV for Road Trips: Chevrolet Silverado EV RST
Starting MSRP: $94,500
Seats: 5
Range: 440 miles
Range anxiety is a legitimate concern for many electric vehicle owners, especially when embarking on road trips with family. The new Chevrolet Silverado EV RST is designed to alleviate this concern effectively. In its non-fleet configuration, the Silverado EV boasts an impressive range of up to 440 miles on a single charge. This remarkable range is the highest currently available for any electric vehicle, excluding Lucid models, making it ideal for long journeys. Complementing its exceptional range, the Silverado EV is equipped with GM’s advanced Ultium fast-charging technology. In fact, Car and Driver magazine has recognized it as the fastest charging EV they have tested, with GM estimating that it can add 100 miles of range in a mere 10 minutes at compatible charging stations. The Chevrolet Silverado EV RST is engineered to handle extended road trips with ease, minimizing charging stops and allowing for realistic full days of driving on a single charge, perhaps only needing a top-up during a lunch break.
Best Luxury Family EV: BMW iX
Starting MSRP: $87,250
Seats: 5
Range: 288 to 324 miles
The BMW iX, while being a two-row SUV, delivers a luxurious and family-friendly experience. Although its exterior styling might be polarizing for some, a common trait in the current BMW lineup, the iX excels in providing almost everything a discerning family would desire in an electric vehicle. It offers generous interior space, with 35.5 cubic feet of cargo room behind the second row, ample for luggage and family essentials. The BMW iX also provides a substantial range, exceeding 300 miles in certain configurations, ensuring fewer charging stops on longer trips. Staying true to BMW’s reputation, the iX delivers a refined driving experience with its sophisticated dynamics, offering a smooth and well-controlled ride. The interior is modern and elegantly designed, creating a premium ambiance that might just make you overlook the controversial oversized front grille. For families seeking a luxurious and capable electric SUV, the BMW iX is a compelling choice.
Best Affordable Family EV: Hyundai Ioniq 5
Starting MSRP: $41,800
Seats: 5
Range: 220 to 303 miles
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has garnered numerous accolades and is a strong contender for the title of the best all-around affordable electric vehicle currently available. It also serves admirably as a family-friendly EV. Its hatchback design cleverly conceals a surprisingly spacious interior, maximizing the benefits of its flat floor to offer two rows of comfortable seating and 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row – sufficient for a considerable amount of luggage or groceries. For added versatility and enhanced traction, all-wheel drive is also available. Attractive lease deals often offered by Hyundai can make the Ioniq 5 exceptionally affordable, further boosting its appeal to budget-conscious families. Its distinctive and bold styling ensures it stands out from the crowd, making it a stylish and practical choice for families looking to switch to electric without breaking the bank.
Source: InsideEVs
