EV Models and Where to Buy
EVs make excellent family or fleet vehicles since they’re much cheaper to run and maintain than an equivalent petrol or diesel powered vehicle”. But which one is right for you?
There are an increasing number of new EVs and PHEVs coming onto the market (we’ll update this information so you know when new models will be available to purchase), and used car importers are now bringing in a range of used EVs and PHEVs too – you’ll find them on TradeMe and other car auction sites.
Here’s a list of EVs you might like to consider.
Fully Electric
Nissan Leaf
This five seater hatchback has a range of 170km on full charge and can be fast-charged. You can buy one of these secondhand for between $10,000-$65,000 depending on the model.
Learn more
BMW i3
- New from: $78,700
- Range: 260km
- Seats: 5
This BMW i3 was developed for electric mobility, from the ground up, from innovative aerodynamic measures and energy consumption to sustainable and recycled materials that protect the environment.
Tesla Motors Model S
- New From: $159,990
- Seats: 5
- Model S, the first fully electric sedan, is built for speed and range, with the lowest drag coefficient on Earth and unmatched efficiency.
Nissan eNV200
A versatile vehicle, this can be a two-seater van or a seven seat family wagon. It has a good range of 120km-195km, can be fast charged, and has an import price of between $20,000-$50,000.
Learn more
Tesla Motors Model X
- New from: $174,990
- Seats: 5-7
- Model X is designed for efficiency and blends performance and utility with unique features including the falcon wing doors and canopy glass.
Renault Zoe
- New from: $63,990
- Range: 395km
- Seats: 5
- New ZOE sports a modern and dynamic design, bold curves, sleek lines and an impressive driving range of almost 400km from its 52 kWh battery.
VW e-Golf
- New From $69,490
- Seats: 5
- Range: 230km
The e-Golf is the Golf you know and love, but 100% electric to provide fun sustainable motoring for all
Tesla Motors Model 3
- New from: $66,900
- Seats: 5
- Model 3 is Tesla’s smaller, simple, and more affordable electric car which combines range, performance, safety, and technology.
Renault Kangoo
- New from: $63,990
- Range: 229km
- Seats: 2
- The Kangoo EV is ‘performant, ‘intelligent’ and ‘versatile’ ready to suit every trade
Mitsubishi iMiev / Peugeot iOn
You get a range of 100km in this four seater hatchback. It can be fast-charged and used models start at $12,000.
Hyundai IONIQ
- New From: $65,990
- Seats: 5
- Range: 300+ km
Look at IONIQ EV Series II and see the future of mobility and the chance to make a difference, a fun drive and with its fully electric powertrain you could see 300+km driving range.
LDV EV80
The LDV EV80 Pure Electric Van is here. Key features include a maximum payload of 1,000kg, safe and lithium iron phosphate battery technology that can be fully charged in 2 hours PLUS zero emissions. Models are sold for $57k (or less with cab & chassis only.)
Hyundai Kona
- New from: $69,990
- Seats: 5
- Range: 305 – 484km
Everything about the Kona Electric Series II shows the power of positive thinking, you get cutting-edge design, a pure electric powertrain that provides up to 484km of driving range (64kWh battery) plus a suite of advanced connectivity and safety features that will put you right in the vanguard of fashion and technology.
Kia Soul EV
The Kia Soul EV is an all-electric subcompact crossover SUV with a range of 376km this car perfect for long distances. Suitable for fast charging and costing $35,000+. (Imported. Not sold new in NZ.)
Jaguar i-Pace
- New from: $159,900
- Seats: 5
- Range: 470km
The first electric SUV from a premium European automaker. With an incredible range of 470km.
Kia Niro
Kia has an all-electric version of the Niro with models which range between 289km and 455km, making this car perfect for long distances. Suitable for fast charging and costing between $68,000 and $74,000.
Audi e-tron 55 quattro
- New from: $151,000
- Seats: 5
- With its combination of electric drive and comfortable, sophisticated interior, the Audi e-tron creates a new sense of mobility.
Mercedes Benz EQC
With impressive range, extensive charging infrastructure and the highest level of safety, the EQC gives us a fascinating new feel for electric driving. With a range of 354km(est) and priced at $143,000 everything speaks in favour of the EQC.
MG ZS
- New From: $48,990
- Seats: 5
- Range: TBC
NZ’s Most Affordable EV (BEV). A pure electric driving range of up to 63km combined with a 1.5L Turbo petrol engine giving a total output of 370N.m. delivering rapid acceleration reaching 0-100km in 6.9 seconds.
Tesla Cybertruck
Now entering a new class of strength, speed and versatility— these models will have a range of 400KM – 800KM (epa est.) with the highest spec achieving 0-100km/ph in under 2.9 seconds.
MINI Hatch
- New from: $60,400
- Seats: 4
- Range: 233km
The MINI Electric Hatch boasts the same corner-carving agility that has been turning drivers into MINI for generations. With the battery positioned along the length of the vehicle floor, the centre of gravity is even lower tan a petrol-powered MINI, meaning enhanced stability around every bend and more fun at every turn.
Mazda New Zealand has joined the electric vehicle trend with the announcement of the MX-30 hatchback, with a couple of examples being shown to the motoring media before the EV arrives in some dealerships in July.
BMW iX3
- New from: TBC
- Seats: 5
- Range: 450km
The first all-electric BMW Sports Activity Vehicle that combines the best of two worlds: the driving dynamics and premium quality of the BMW X3 and the increased performance and efficiency of the fifth generation BMW eDrive technology.
BMW iX
- New from: TBC
- Seats: 5
- Range: 550km
With its trailblazing design and an interior devoted to luxurious spaciousness, the BMW iX embodies a fresh new take on the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) concept.
BMW i4
- New from: TBC
- Seats: 5
- Range: 590km
The BMW i4 combines BMW’s fabled sporting prowess and a range that also convinces over long journeys with the elegant design, spaciousness and practicality of a four-door Gran Coupé.
Hyundai IONIQ 5
- New from: $79,990
- Seats: 5
- Range: 384 – 481
The IONIQ 5 marks the beginning of a new era of clean mobility for Hyundai, blurring the line between digital and analogue, the new battery electric midsize SUV is the flagship model behind Hyundai’s new signature dedicated EV architecture
Audi e-tron GT quattro
- New from: $194,500
- Seats: 5
- The four-door high performance coupe is a demonstration of how fascinating and exciting electric mobility is – the start of a new era, the Gran Turismo of the future.
Audi e-tron Sportback
- New from: $170,500
- Seats: 5
- The Audi e-tron Sportback combines pure emotions with a reinterpreted coupe design. With quattro all-wheel drive, up to 300 kW output – get ready for driving fun.
Audi RS e-tron GT
- New from: $273,500
- Seats: 5
- The Audi RS e-tron GT is our electrified masterpiece. As a gran turismo with the luxury of two luggage compartments, it combines comfort and driving dynamics in one ironic design.
Peugeot e-2008 BEV
- New from: $69,990
- Seats: 5
- Discover the all-new PEUGEOT e-2008 SUV with its full electric powertrain. Savour the unexpected sensations of an all-electric vehicle without having to compromise on space, technology or driving dynamics.
Peugeot e-208 GT
- New from: $59,990
- Seats: 5
- Range: 340KM
- The new PEUGEOT e-208 city car offers a lively and stimulating drive thanks to its 100% electric engine and clearly offers access to a new mobility.
Plug in Hybrids
BMW 225xe
- New From: $73,200
- Range: 47km
- Seats: 5
Thanks to its innovative blend of BMW eDrive technology and powerful petrol engine, the 225xe Active Tourer delivers a thrilling driving experience.
BMW 330e
- New from: $94,900
- Range: 60km
- Seats: 5
The combination of BMW’s electric motor and TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine puts the BMW 330e Plug-in Hybrid in a league of its own
BMW X5 xDrive45e
- New from: 4161,900
- Seats: 5
- Range: 80km
More impressively than ever, the second generation X5 PHEV combines the purely electrically powered driving pleasure of a BMW plug-in hybrid model with the versatility that is typical of a Sports Activity Vehicle.
BMW i8
Looks and performs like a sports car, but offering the efficiency of a plug-in hybrid – $276,000.
Mercedes Benz 350e
Available as a Sedan or Wagon, this costs around $96,000, and has a range of 31km in purely electric mode.
Mercedes Benz GLE500e
The first plug-in hybrid in this model range, combines a 333 hp V6 engine with a 116 hp electric motor, $150,000.
Mercedes Benz S 500 e
The S 500 offers an ultramodern hybrid drive configuration and emission-free driving for up to 33km, $255,000
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
- New from: $52,990
- Seats: 5
- From emissions-free school drop-offs to family holiday road trips, the Outlander PHEV is designed with you and your family in mind.
Porsche Cayenne S ehybrid
A luxury model with an everyday driving range of 36-38kh, purchase new from $175,000.
Porsche Panamera 4 e-hybrid
A luxury high-performance model with a .2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 engine producing 330hp and the electric motor producing 136hp. Prices vary according to spec.
Volvo XC90 T8
A luxury high-performance plug-in hybrid SUV offering comfort, safety, and a high level of efficiency for $134,000.
Toyota PlugIn Prius
A mid-size plug-in hybrid and the first generation of PHV prius available exclusively as part of the Signature Class range. Available used only for $35,000 – $40,000.
BMW i3 REX
An excellent town car, with fantastic acceleration and a range of up to 160 km. Buy new for $82,400.00.
Learn more
Hyundai Ioniq PHEV
- New From: $53,990
- Seats: 5
- Range: 63km
The IONIQ Plug-in Series II gives you the freedom of choice, pure electric driving with zero emissions or with the touch of a button access the long-range freedom that the hybrid petrol-electric mode provides
Volvo XC40 Recharge Plug-in hybrid PHEV
The Volvo XC40 PHEV Recharge is here and displays a powerful combination of electric motor and petrol engine, plus a host of exquisite Scandinavian design features. Pricing for the new model starts at $84,900 plus ORC.
MG HS
- New from: $52,990
- Seats: 5
- Range: TBC
The All NEW HS Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV). The MG HS PHEV has a top speed of 190km/h and dynamic acceleration, which achieves 0-100km in 6.9 secs – so you really do get the best of both worlds. The MG HS PHEV total output of 370N.m (198 Kw) totals both the output from the electric motor with the 1.5L turbo combustion engine. This total combined output provides an impressive 1.7L/100km fuel consumption (combined)~ and 39g/km CO2 emissions*.
MINI COUNTRYMAN PHEV
- New from: $68,290
- Seats: 5
- Range: 55km
The MINI Country Plug-In Hybrid offers the space and spirit you need to take on all sorts of adventures, while emitting fewer emissions along the way. Experience an electrifying combination on both your everyday drives and extraordinary escapes.
Ford Transit Custom PHEV
- New from: $99,990 +ORC
- Seats: TBC
- Range: 56km
The 2020 International VAN of the Year is now available as a PHEV. The new, state-of-the-art, plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) Transit Custom is purpose-built to help you work more efficiently than ever.
BMW 745e
- New from: $194,900 +ORC
- Seats: 5
- Range: 55 km
The BMW 7 Series Sedan stands for self-assured presence, exceptional performance and maximum comfort.
BMW 530e
- New from: $132,900 +ORC
- Seats: 5
- Range: 60 km
The BMW 5 Series Sedan is the epitome of a sporty business sedan.
BMW X3 xDrive30e
- New from: $107,700 +ORC
- Range: 50km
- Seats: 5
The BMW X3 xDrive30e plug-in-hybrd combines the BMW eDrive electric drive technology with a powerful combustion engine and BMW’s xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system.
Ford Transit Tourneo PHEV
- New from: $111,990 +ORC
- Range: 56km
- Seats: TBC
The New Ford Tourneo Custom Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) is purpose-built to help transport passengers more efficiently than ever. Smart, hybrid technology helps keep emissions at a minimum, whilst intelligent design creates a refined and sophisticated interior for everyone to enjoy.
Ford Escape PHEV
- New from: $60,990 +ORC
- Range: TBC
- Seats: TBC
Ford’s first plug-in hybrid SUV, the all-new Escape is now available to order from your local Ford dealer with deliveries taking place in late 2021. The Escape PHEV offers guilt-free performance that makes going electric easier than ever before and both models qualify for the government rebate.
Mitsubishi Eclipse PHEV
- New from: $49,990
- Seats: 5
- Capable of emission-free commuting and long-distance road trips, Eclipse Cross PHEV brings together the best of both worlds.
Peugeot 3008 HYBRID 4
- New from: $89,990
- Seats: 5
- The new Peugeot 3008 SUV HYBRID4 combines power and refinement, with on-board technology that contributes to a unique driving experience. Its HYBRID4 300hp All Wheel Drive engine, combining internal combustion and electric, is efficient and dynamic.
Where to get a used EV
Second-hand EVs are imported from the UK and Japan. In the UK and Japan, EVs get tax breaks and other financial incentives, which are passed on to New Zealand buyers.
Because EVs need very little maintenance, even one that has clocked 10K is almost like new. You might like to look for these cars on TradeMe Motors. You’ll find the likes of Nissan Leaf available for less than $20,000. This will help you lower your upfront investment to switch.
Trying an EV first
If you don’t know much about EVs, you don’t need to jump right in and buy one. If you’d like to test drive another kind of EV, click on any of the links below to arrange directly with the manufacturer:
You could also try contacting Blue Cars for a 4 or 7 day rental of a Nissan Leaf, and an introductory lesson on EV driving and charging. If afterward you decide to buy a Leaf, Blue Cars will negotiate a $500 discount off the purchase price. They also provide mobile and fixed charging options.
Getting your EV set up at home
Once you have an EV, you’ll need the equipment to keep in running. There are a number of long long-established suppliers of EV chargers who fully understand what you will need.
Just contact any one of these companies directly:
Become a member of Drive Electric
Becoming a member of DE is all about committing to the vision of a totally electric New Zealand. You’ll be part of the conversation that will help shape infrastructure and legislation around EV.
You’ll also get:
- Access to professional advice
- Discounted tickets to events
- Opportunity to help shape the future
- Information on future funding for EV innovation
Find more information about project funding, go to http://www.transport.govt.nz/ourwork/climatechange/electric-vehicles.