From cutting-edge technology to environmentally friendly design, these EVs are ready to transform the driving experience and pave the way for a greener tomorrow.
As the automotive industry continues its electrifying evolution and transformative shift towards sustainability, 2024 promises to be a landmark year. A new wave of Electric Vehicles (EVs) are poised to redefine the standards of efficiency, performance, and sustainability on the road.
From established manufacturers to ambitious startups, the cutting-edge EVs promise to redefine the driving experience, setting new benchmarks for performance, innovation, and eco-conscious mobility.
As we delve into the exciting realm of EVs where technology and environmental responsibility marry, here are ten of the most highly-anticipated EVs in 2024.
Cutting-Edge Features in the Latest Electric Vehicle Lineup
1. KIA EV3
Kia’s upcoming EV3 electric compact SUV, initially showcased as a concept, will be released in 2024. The company aims to create a practical and enjoyable vehicle, drawing inspiration from the design elements of the EV9 unveiled last year.
The EV3 boasts a forward-pushed windscreen and robust, squared wheel arches reminiscent of the EV9, characterised by asymmetrical angles. A distinct feature of the EV3 is its disconnected C pillar, lending the roof a floating appearance.
Inside, environmentally-friendly materials will adorn the cabin, while innovative features such as rotating mini tables provide length, position, and angle flexibility. The rear bench-type seat can also be folded upwards to accommodate bulky items like electric scooters and bicycles.
2. Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
It’s no secret that Hyundai’s recent design direction has been a long-standing point of admiration, particularly with the original 2021 Ioniq 5. However, certain design aspects, such as the pointed middle of the front bumper and the flared wheel arches, may not stand the test of time as well as anticipated. The arrival of the refreshed model in 2024, known as the Ioniq 5 N, addresses these initial design quirks.
Moreover, it comes with a notable performance upgrade: with a press of the N Grin Boost button, torque and power surge to 478 kW/650 PS, complemented by drift technology for those who enjoy sideways driving.
Additional enhancements include bucket seats positioned 20mm lower than the standard specification, a lip spoiler spanning the lower section of the front bumper, and a rear diffuser featuring vibrant, luminous orange accents for added flair.
3. Range Rover Electric
Land Rover has deliberated in its approach, but the fully electric Range Rover is now set for production in 2024. Comprehensive on-road testing has already commenced, spanning various conditions from -40 degrees Celsius in Sweden to 50 degrees Celsius in Dubai. This rigorous testing underscores the company’s commitment to upholding its 50-plus-year legacy of off-road prowess.
The full-electric Range Rover, like current Kia and Hyundai vehicles, will have an 800-volt design for rapid charging, enabling quick replenishment of its significant rangel which is projected to be over 400 miles. In addition to its whisper-quiet electric motor, the car will include an active noise reduction technology for improved passenger serenity. Preorders are now available in selected countries.
4. Porsche Macan EV
After the debut of the 2019 Taycan, the anticipation has been palpable, and finally, in 2024, the all-electric Macan is set to make its appearance.
Porsche’s second EVs, meticulously crafted from the ground up to accommodate the new powertrain, promises a performance synonymous with the brand. The Macan is poised to impress with a two-motor setup delivering up to 603 bhp, coupled with a 100-kWh battery providing a range of at least 310 miles.
The interior features a prominent 12.3-inch touchscreen, and a revamped Porsche UI designed to integrate electric drive functionalities seamlessly. These include intelligent routing and real-time updates on public fast-charging points, enhancing the driving experience.
5. BMW i4 2024
The BMW i4 has proven to be a success for the German automaker, and rightfully so. Now, with a refresh slated for 2024, it’s poised to become even more enticing.
Despite being camouflaged during test drives, it appears that the exterior design won’t undergo significant changes. The grilles remain unchanged, positioned with the radar on one side, while the bumper design appears mostly unaltered. However, the headlights will showcase a new LED signature.
There are indications that the rear bumper may undergo reshaping, accompanied by updated rear lights. While the current i4 boasts a range of up to 365 miles with an 80-kWh battery, it falls short of the Model 3 Long Range’s impressive 391-mile range. Therefore, it’s reasonable to anticipate BMW will address this discrepancy, alongside the introduction of the new iDrive 9 info-tainment system.
6. Volvo EX30
Volvo is keen to highlight the debut of its ‘value’ EV in 2024, which is aimed at attracting new customers to the brand.
This emphasis comes as the seven-seat electric EX90, originally planned for release by the end of 2023, was delayed due to additional software development. The entry-level EX30 offers three variants: a single-motor 51 kWh, a single-motor 69 kWh, and a performance twin-motor 69 kWh configuration.
Built on the smallest version of Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture, it shares specifications with the group’s Smart #1 and Zeekr X models. Notably, the top-tier model boasts an NMC battery, twin motors, and all-wheel drive, delivering an impressive 315 kW (428 hp) and accelerating from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.6 seconds.
Despite being touted as Volvo’s “fastest accelerating car ever”, some critics view this performance as unnecessary for its intended market segment, labelling it as corporate posturing.
China’s Electric Vehicles on the Rise
7. BYD Seal U
BYD’s global EV dominance marches on with their fourth model being added to its UK lineup in early 2024. The Seal U will be the brand’s first SUV for UK customers, as its larger seven-seater, the Tang, only comes in left-hand drive. The Seal saloon is electric-only and uses BYD’s e-Platform 3.0, while the Seal U already has a version in China with a choice of plug-in hybrid or pure electric.
As a midsize SUV in electric form, the Seal U aims to take on the Volkswagen ID.4 and Ford Explorer, and will have two battery sizes: 71 kWh and 87 kWh. The smaller should get 261 miles of range and the larger 311 miles — but both will power 218-bhp electric motors. Charging from 30% – 80% should be as little as 28 mins for the 71-kWh model.
8. Li Auto Mega
Li Auto is prioritising aerodynamics in its Mega model, a multi-purpose vehicle that offers generous legroom in the third row akin to German saloons. This marks the company’s debut in the fully electric car market, boasting a rapid charging capability of 500km in just 12 minutes.
The Mega is anticipated to feature Li Auto’s latest NOA system, including innovative functionalities such as ‘valet parking ‘ and full city self-driving.
9. Luxeed S7
Huawei’s collaboration with Chery has resulted in the development of a car positioned as a direct competitor to Tesla’s upscale Model S. Equipped with the Harmony OS, this vehicle boasts an impressive autonomous driving system capable of navigating city streets with ease. Despite this capability, adherence to Chinese regulations necessitates keeping a hand on the wheel during operation.
According to the CLTC testing standard, the vehicle offers a remarkable range of up to 855km, translating to approximately 371 miles in practical usage. Additionally, it supports rapid charging, providing a 215-km charge in just 5 minutes.
While details regarding exports still need to be discovered, given Chery’s status as China’s largest car exporter, the possibility of the S7 model being available internationally in the near future cannot be discounted.
10. JiYue ROBO-02
Following the JiYue (also known as “Jidu”) ROBO-1, the second collaboration between Geely and Baidu is on the horizon.
While this new vehicle is expected to incorporate a significant portion of Baidu’s advanced self-driving capabilities, there’s no confirmation of Level 4 self-driving technology, unlike what is employed in the company’s robotaxi services.
The vehicle is built upon Geely’s renowned SEA architecture and will likely feature an 800-volt electric system, delivering at least 400 kW of power. Additionally, it is anticipated to showcase a sizable central screen, adding to its appeal.
As we peer into the future of mobility, the electric revolution continues accelerating, promising a greener, cleaner tomorrow. From sleek sedans to rugged SUVs, the top 10 EVs of 2024 represent the pinnacle of innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry.
With each model boasting cutting-edge technology, impressive range, and eco-conscious design, these EVs are poised to redefine the way we drive and shape the landscape of transportation for generations to come. Buckle up and prepare to embark on an electrifying journey towards a brighter, emission-free future. The road ahead is electric, and the possibilities are limitless.
