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2025’s Best Electric Vehicles: Top Cars, SUVs & Trucks Leading the Charge in the U.S.

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Tariffs, Tesla and a Twitter Hack: Top Tech News from July 14–15, 2025

Key Highlights

  • Unprecedented EV Choices: U.S. buyers in 2025 can choose from nearly 150 electric models across every segment, from affordable compacts to luxury sedans and pickups autosinnovate.org. EVs now make up about 1 in 10 new cars sold in America autosinnovate.org, reflecting their mainstream momentum.
  • Longer Range, Less Anxiety: Many 2025 EVs easily top 300 miles of range per charge, shrinking “range anxiety” concerns. The Lucid Air leads with 400–500+ miles of EPA range (farther than some gas cars) caranddriver.com caranddriver.com, while most popular models like the Tesla Model 3 and Ford Mustang Mach-E offer 250–350 miles on a full battery.
  • Performance Meets Practicality: Today’s EVs are quick – often 0–60 mph in 3–5 seconds – without sacrificing utility. The Rivian R1T pickup, for example, “is a practical, usable pickup that can match some of the very best sports cars on pavement and the very best purpose-built trucks off-road” motortrend.com. Even family SUVs like the Tesla Model Y deliver over 300 miles of range with spirited acceleration edmunds.com.
  • Cutting-Edge Tech & Design: 2025 EVs are loaded with tech – expansive touchscreens, advanced driver aids (like Ford’s BlueCruise and GM’s Super Cruise), and over-the-air updates that add features over time. Designs range from sleek and futuristic (the aerodynamic Hyundai Ioniq 6) to bold and retro (the VW ID. Buzz microbus EV) edmunds.com. Automakers are also improving cold-weather performance with heat-pump systems and offering conveniences like front “frunk” cargo space and vehicle-to-load power for gadgets.
  • Easier Charging Everywhere: Charging an EV is more convenient in 2025 thanks to rapid expansion of fast-charging stations and industry unity on connectors. Tesla opened up its Supercharger network – which leads the nation with over 36,000 plugs – to non-Tesla EVs techcrunch.com. Major brands from Ford and GM to Hyundai and Mercedes are adopting Tesla’s NACS charge port standard on new models for seamless Supercharger access starting in 2025 techcrunch.com techcrunch.com. Combined with growing 150+ kW public chargers and home charging options, it’s ever easier to keep an EV powered up (though public charger rollout still needs to catch up with the surging EV fleet autosinnovate.org autosinnovate.org).

Introduction: The Electric Vehicle Boom of 2025

Electric vehicles have truly gone mainstream in 2025. Nearly every automaker now offers consumer-focused EVs in the U.S., from sedans and crossovers to pickup trucks and even minivans. There are more models on sale than ever – about 149 EV models as of early 2025 autosinnovate.org – and they’re not just niche compliance cars or luxury toys. American brands like Tesla, Ford, GM, and Rivian have rapidly expanded their electric lineups, and international marques (Tesla aside) from Hyundai and Kia to Volkswagen, BMW, and Nissan are selling popular EVs stateside. This year has also brought significant new releases and updates: Tesla began deliveries of its radical Cybertruck, GM rolled out the Chevrolet Blazer EV and is launching the Equinox EV as an affordable ~$30K crossover, and Kia’s new three-row EV9 SUV is making waves in the family SUV segment. Meanwhile, Ford slashed prices on the Mustang Mach-E and ramped up F-150 Lightning production to stay competitive caranddriver.com, and Chevrolet confirmed a next-generation Bolt EV is in the works to return as a low-cost electric hatch caranddriver.com.

Crucially, modern EVs address the key criteria shoppers care about:

  • Range: New EVs boast far greater driving range than earlier models. Many easily achieve 250–350 miles on a charge, and several push well beyond. For instance, the Lucid Air can travel up to an EPA-estimated 480+ miles before recharging caranddriver.com caranddriver.com – a road-trip gamechanger. Even mass-market models like the Tesla Model 3 Long Range (333 mile EPA rating) and Hyundai Ioniq 6 (340+ miles in some trims) provide ample range for daily driving and weekend getaways. Battery improvements and efficiency gains mean you’ll spend less time worrying about plugging in.
  • Performance: Unlike the sluggish eco-box EVs of a decade ago, today’s electric cars are seriously quick and smooth. Instant electric torque means even a humble Chevy Bolt or Nissan Leaf feels zippy around town, while performance-oriented EVs can embarrass supercars off the line. The AWD Tesla Model Y SUV, for example, “has quick acceleration and over 300 miles of driving range”, making it “one of the best electric SUVs you can buy overall,” according to Edmunds edmunds.com. High-performance variants like the Tesla Model S Plaid, Porsche Taycan Turbo S, or the new Hyundai Ioniq 5 N can hit 60 mph in the 2–3 second range – truly mind-bending speed. Yet these cars are also practical and easy to drive every day thanks to refined ride quality and one-pedal driving capability.
  • Affordability: EV pricing is gradually becoming more accessible. Yes, luxury models like the Audi e-tron GT or Mercedes EQS still command high prices, but you can also find mainstream EVs in the $30,000–$40,000 range (before incentives). The Nissan Leaf, one of the longest-running electric cars, remains the U.S.’s cheapest EV with a ~$29.6K starting price caranddriver.com caranddriver.com. Chevrolet’s upcoming Equinox EV is priced from about $34,995 and offers an impressive 319 miles of range caranddriver.com caranddriver.com. And thanks to federal tax credits (up to $7,500 for qualifying U.S.-built EVs) and state rebates, many buyers can effectively get these EVs for under $30K. Furthermore, competition and economies of scale have led to price cuts even on premium models – Ford cut Mustang Mach-E prices by as much as ~$4,000–$7,000 for 2025 caranddriver.com, and Tesla has periodically trimmed prices on the Model 3 and Model Y to stoke demand. In short, EVs are no longer only for luxury budgets.
  • Technology & Features: Buying an EV in 2025 often means getting a cutting-edge tech experience. Virtually all come with large infotainment touchscreens (anywhere from 10 to 17 inches) packing smartphone integration, advanced navigation (often with charger location routing), and app-based remote controls. Many EVs offer over-the-air software updates, so your car can gain new features or efficiency improvements overnight. Driver-assistance suites are common – features like adaptive cruise control, lane-centering, 360° cameras, and automated parking. Some brands go even further: GM’s Super Cruise and Ford’s BlueCruise allow hands-free highway driving on pre-mapped routes, and Tesla’s ever-evolving Autopilot offers lane-keeping and traffic-aware cruise with an eye toward full self-driving (though it’s not truly autonomous yet). Interior design is another differentiator: EVs often maximize space with flat floors and lack of engine tunnel, leading to airy cabins and creative storage (see the “frunk” front trunk in many models). From minimalist, screen-centric interiors (Tesla) to luxurious leather-and-wood lounges (Mercedes EQS, BMW i7) to quirky touches like backlit door panels (Honda’s upcoming Prologue EV) – there’s an EV style for everyone.
  • Charging & Infrastructure: A critical part of EV ownership is charging, and 2025 brings good news on this front. Automakers and charging providers have made big strides in expanding fast-charging networks. Electrify America, EVgo, ChargePoint, and others have added hundreds of DC fast stations nationwide, enabling capable EVs to recharge ~80% in as little as 20 minutes. Even more transformative, Tesla opened its Supercharger network (the largest and most reliable in the U.S.) to other brands via an adapter or new port standard. Ford, GM, Rivian, Volvo, Mercedes, Hyundai/Kia and more have signed on to adopt Tesla’s NACS charging plug, meaning their 2025–2026 models will natively use Superchargers techcrunch.com techcrunch.com. This industry convergence around a single plug will simplify charging for everyone. By the numbers, Tesla’s Supercharger network offers more than double the number of high-speed charging ports in the U.S. compared to the CCS network (around 36,500 vs. 16,900 ports as of early 2025) techcrunch.com. Home charging is also easier than ever – most EV owners install a Level 2 charger in their garage, adding ~25–40 miles of range per hour. Utilities and governments continue to incentivize home charger installations. While rural charging gaps and peak-demand station congestion still pose challenges, the charging infrastructure is steadily improving to meet the needs of the growing EV population.

With that big-picture overview in mind, let’s dive into the best electric vehicles of 2025 – spanning sedans, SUVs, and trucks – and see what makes them stand out. We’ll highlight top models in each category, their strengths (range, performance, tech, design, and more), and what’s new and notable for this year. These EV all-stars have earned praise from experts and drivers alike, and together they showcase why 2025 is a breakout year for going electric.

Best Electric Sedans of 2025

Electric sedans offer the sleek efficiency and road manners of a car, paired with zero emissions and high-tech interiors. In 2025, sedan shoppers can choose from sporty affordable models up to ultra-luxury flagships. Here are some of the leading electric sedans on the market:

Tesla Model 3 (Compact Sedan) – The Model 3 remains the benchmark for mainstream EV sedans. As Car and Driver notes, the Tesla Model 3 essentially “practically invented the electric compact sedan category” caranddriver.com and continues to dominate it. For 2025, the Model 3 got a significant refresh (codename “Project Highland”) that brought a sleeker front-end design, an upgraded interior, and suspension tweaks for a smoother ride caranddriver.com. Starting around $42k (before incentives), it undercuts many rivals on price while delivering brisk performance (0–60 mph as quick as 3.1 seconds in the Performance trim) and an EPA range up to 333 miles (Long Range version) caranddriver.com edmunds.com. All Model 3s feature a minimalist cabin dominated by a 15″ touchscreen – lacking Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, but Tesla’s native UI is snappy and it receives frequent OTA updates. The Long Range and Performance variants include Tesla’s dual-motor AWD and access to the vast Supercharger network, adding to the appeal. While the Model 3 has prompted many copycats, it still earns top marks for its blend of range, tech, and value. In fact, Car and Driver lauded recent updates for making “the Model 3 an even more attractive small EV option.” caranddriver.com Key downsides remain a sparse reliance on touch controls (no gauge cluster, nearly all functions through the screen) and build quality niggles, but overall the Model 3 is a well-rounded EV that’s rightly an Editors’ Choice pick caranddriver.com and one of the best-selling electric cars globally.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 (Midsize Sedan) – Hyundai’s striking new sedan is a refreshing alternative to the usual suspects. The Ioniq 6 turns heads with its streamlined, art-deco-meets-futuristic styling – it’s been described as looking like nothing else on the road edmunds.com. This slippery shape isn’t just for show; it yields an impressively low drag coefficient (~0.22) that helps the Ioniq 6 achieve 340+ miles of EPA range in its long-range RWD form caranddriver.com caranddriver.com. Starting around $39k MSRP, the Ioniq 6 is a strong value. It shares its 800-volt E-GMP platform with the Ioniq 5 crossover, which means super-fast charging capability – up to 235 kW DC – allowing a 10% to 80% charge in as little as 18 minutes under ideal conditions. On the road, the Ioniq 6 is fun yet refined: its dual-motor AWD version makes 320 hp (0–60 in ~5 seconds), and handling is nimble for a fairly long car. Reviewers highlight that it’s enjoyable to drive, though its low curved roofline trades off some rear headroom and cargo height edmunds.com. The interior is modern and tech-focused, with dual 12.3″ displays and extensive ambient lighting, though Hyundai went with a more conventional layout than Tesla (you get physical stalks and buttons for critical functions). One standout is Hyundai’s Highway Drive Assist 2, among the better semi-autonomous driving aids, and the inclusion of Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (which Tesla pointedly lacks). While the Ioniq 6’s unique looks aren’t for everyone, it has substance to back up the style. MotorTrend argues that “even with its [Tesla Model 3] Highland update, Tesla’s hot-selling sedan doesn’t ride as nicely as the Hyundai” Ioniq 6 motortrend.com motortrend.com, and suggests the Ioniq 6 is a top choice among current electric sedans motortrend.com motortrend.com. If you want a blend of efficiency, distinct design, and solid value, the Ioniq 6 makes a compelling case.

Lucid Air (Luxury Sedan) – At the top end of the spectrum is the Lucid Air, an ultra-luxury electric sedan that many have dubbed a potential “Tesla Model S killer.” Built by California-based startup Lucid Motors, the Air focuses on industry-leading range and performance. The Air’s flagship Grand Touring and Sapphire editions boast a huge 113 kWh battery and a proprietary drive system that together enable over 500 miles of range in certain configurations caranddriver.com caranddriver.com – the longest range of any production EV (Lucid achieved an EPA record ~520 miles in a 2022 Air Dream Edition). Performance is equally astonishing: the limited-production Air Sapphire packs 1,200+ hp and can sprint 0–60 mph in ~1.9 seconds, rivaling the quickest Tesla Plaid. But even the “base” Air Pure (from $72k) offers 480 hp, 406 miles of range, and a 0–60 around 3.8 s – specs on par with much pricier German sedans. The Air’s design is sleek and elongated, maximizing interior space. Inside, it’s airy and high-tech, with a glass canopy roof, rich materials, and a unique 34″ curved 5K display spanning the dash. It’s not a Tesla-like minimalist interior; Lucid includes physical controls for climate and an elegant retractable center touchscreen. Reviewers have praised the Air’s comfortable ride and superb handling – it’s a big car that drives smaller than it is. On the tech front, it has all expected driver assists and even an optional semi-autonomous driving system (DreamDrive Pro). One trade-off: despite the six-figure price tags on upper trims, a few interior bits feel less plush than true S-Class caliber caranddriver.com caranddriver.com, and some software elements were initially buggy (Lucid issues frequent updates). Still, the overall package is exceptional. Car and Driver gave the Air a perfect 10/10 rating and a 10Best award, with the verdict that “The Air has the range, the tech, and the grandeur to justify its hefty price tag.” caranddriver.com caranddriver.com In short, the Lucid Air is the EV for those who want maximum range and cutting-edge innovation in a sumptuous sedan. It signals that Tesla no longer has the high-end market to itself.

Other Noteworthy Electric Sedans: The above are highlights, but there are more great EV cars on the market. The Tesla Model S is now a veteran in this field (out since 2012, refreshed in 2021) but still offers incredible performance – the Model S Plaid’s 1,020 hp tri-motor setup hits 60 mph in 1.99 s and it offers up to ~405 miles of range – albeit at a steep $90–$110k price. Porsche’s Taycan and Taycan Cross Turismo remain favorites for driving enthusiasts, with sports-car handling and Porsche build quality (though only ~200–250 miles range). More affordable options include the Polestar 2 (a stylish Swedish liftback starting around $50k, with 270–300 mile range) and the all-new BMW i5, essentially an electric 5-Series sedan that debuted for 2025. And at the entry-level, Chevy’s Bolt EUV (though technically a subcompact crossover) and the upcoming Fiat 500e (returning as a cute city EV with ~150-mile range) serve those looking to go electric on a tight budget or in a city-friendly size. In summary, whether you prioritize range, luxury, or value, 2025’s electric sedan market has you covered.

Best Electric SUVs and Crossovers of 2025

Sport-utility EVs are by far the most popular segment, mimicking the overall market shift to crossovers and SUVs. The higher ride height, extra cargo space, and available all-wheel-drive make electric SUVs extremely versatile for families and daily life. Here are some of the top electric SUVs and crossovers making a splash in 2025:

Tesla Model Y (Compact Crossover SUV) – The Model Y has quickly become America’s best-selling EV (even one of the top-selling vehicles overall in some quarters), and for good reason. It takes the proven electric formula of the Model 3 and packages it in a more spacious crossover body with a hatchback. The Model Y offers seating for five (or optional 7 in a pinch), lots of cargo room (about 68 cu ft with seats down), and dual-motor AWD standard on most trims. With an EPA range up to 330 miles (Long Range trim) and Tesla’s efficient drivetrain, the Model Y makes a superb road-trip vehicle – especially given the convenience of the Supercharger network. Performance is brisk: 0–60 in 4.8 seconds for the Long Range, or a sizzling 3.5 seconds in the Performance version. Edmunds praises the Model Y’s combination of roominess and performance, noting “the Tesla Model Y has a comfy interior for passengers and lots of space for your stuff… quick acceleration and over 300 miles of driving range… [it’s] one of the best electric SUVs you can buy overall.” edmunds.com Technology is a strong point too – the Model Y’s minimalist cabin is centered on a 15″ touchscreen running Tesla’s feature-rich software (with everything from arcade games to an integrated dashcam recorder). Tesla’s Autopilot driver assist is included, and the car can receive new features via updates (the Model Y has gained things like improved suspension tuning and a “Boombox” exterior speaker mode over the air). Build quality and ride comfort have improved with recent iterations, though some competitors offer more premium interiors. Starting around $45k (after recent price cuts), the Model Y undercuts many rival electric SUVs. Given its blend of range, performance, and tech, it remains the EV crossover to beat in 2025, still topping many expert rankings.

Ford Mustang Mach-E (Compact Crossover) – Ford’s stylish crossover – inspired by the Mustang in name and spirit – has established itself as one of the best non-Tesla EVs available. The Mustang Mach-E combines a sporty character with crossover practicality. It offers multiple configurations: Standard or Extended Range batteries, RWD or AWD, and trims ranging from the 266-hp base Select to the 480-hp GT Performance and new Rally edition. Ranges vary from ~250 miles (Standard battery, AWD) up to 310 miles (Extended Range, RWD) caranddriver.com caranddriver.com. In driving, the Mach-E impresses with responsive handling and a well-tuned ride. Car and Driver found an extended-range Mach-E “quicker and more engaging than most of its rivals,” while also praising its quiet operation and smooth ride caranddriver.com. Indeed, the hottest Mach-E GT can rip 0–60 in 3.5 s, but every Mach-E is fairly fun to drive on a winding road (a pleasant surprise from an SUV). The Mach-E’s interior is modern and functional: a 15.5″ center touchscreen (with Sync 4A infotainment that does support Apple CarPlay/Android Auto), a smaller driver digital cluster, and decent quality materials with a mix of sporty and practical design. There’s even a handy front trunk for extra cargo. One of the Mach-E’s achievements has been proving that a legacy automaker can take on Tesla; the model won SUV of the Year from North American Car of the Year awards in its debut, and continues to earn accolades. It also underscores Ford’s commitment to EVs – for 2025, Ford significantly cut Mach-E prices (the base model now around $40k) to stay competitive caranddriver.com, and every 2025 Mach-E got a standard heat pump to boost winter efficiency caranddriver.com plus tech updates like improved BlueCruise 1.2 for hands-free highway driving. In short, the Mach-E delivers a very balanced package of style, performance, and tech. As Car and Driver succinctly put it in their verdict: “If you take the punchy acceleration and sporty styling from the Mustang and combine it with EV efficiency and SUV practicality, you get the Mustang Mach-E.” caranddriver.com That formula has made the Mach-E a top pick among electric SUVs and a legit rival to the Model Y.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 (Compact Crossover duo) – Hyundai and Kia (corporate siblings) have been on a roll with their latest EVs, and the Ioniq 5 and EV6 are two standout compact crossovers that share an advanced platform. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 launched in late 2021 with retro-cool 1980s hatchback styling but thoroughly modern underpinnings – and even snagged MotorTrend’s 2023 SUV of the Year award. The Kia EV6, arriving shortly after, wears a sportier design and offers a performance GT version. Both vehicles ride on a 800V architecture enabling ultra-fast charging (10–80% in ~18 minutes with a 350 kW charger) and both offer either 58 kWh (Standard) or 77.4 kWh (Long Range) battery options. In Long Range form, the single-motor RWD models can go about 303 miles (Ioniq 5) or 310 miles (EV6) per charge caranddriver.com caranddriver.com. Dual-motor AWD versions have around 256–276 miles range but significantly more power (320 hp). The EV6 GT is notable for its 576 hp output and 3.4-second 0–60 time – making it one of the quickest crossovers on the market – although its range is only ~206 miles. For most buyers, the regular versions hit the sweet spot: ~5-second 0–60, roomy cabin, and lots of features for the money. These models start in the mid-$40k and can climb to the low $60k for a loaded EV6 GT or Ioniq 5 Limited. Both have received software updates adding features like Plug-and-Charge support and improved driver assists. On the inside, the Ioniq 5 has a minimalist lounge vibe with a sliding center console and available twin 12″ screens, while the EV6 skews more cockpit-like and sporty. MotorTrend calls the Ioniq 5 “upscale” and praises its blend of quality, value, and even handling fun, especially in the new 641-hp Ioniq 5 N variant motortrend.com motortrend.com. Meanwhile, the EV6 GT was lauded for giving the Mustang Mach-E GT “a run for its money” in performance. Overall, these Korean cousins demonstrate how far legacy automakers have come – they’re seriously good EVs that many reviewers rank at the top of the segment. And with Kia and Hyundai planning to adopt Tesla’s NACS charging access in 2025 techcrunch.com techcrunch.com, owners of these models will soon have even more charging options.

Kia EV9 (Mid-Size 3-Row SUV) – One of the most anticipated family EVs of 2025 is the Kia EV9, a true three-row electric SUV. Until now, EV options with 3-row seating were limited mainly to luxury prices (Tesla Model X, Rivian R1S, Mercedes EQS SUV) or vans. The EV9 changes that with a starting price around $56k and a bold, boxy design that echoes the popular Telluride SUV. It comes with a 99.8 kWh battery good for 230–304 miles of range depending on configuration caranddriver.com caranddriver.com. Inside, the EV9 can seat six or seven, and the cabin fit and finish are impressively premium – Kia is clearly aiming upmarket, with available features like dual panoramic displays, quilted leather, and even second-row seats that swivel backward in some trims. On the road, it’s not a sporty vehicle but emphasizes comfort and confidence. Edmunds highlighted that “the Kia EV9 delivers a luxuriously quiet drive and high-quality features that elevate every commute… an appealing choice for families ready to transition into the electric realm, without compromising on much of anything.” edmunds.com In other words, it drives like a refined family SUV. With ~379 hp in AWD form, it’s quick enough (0–60 in ~5 seconds) and can tow around 5,000 lbs – useful for weekend toys. The EV9’s charging is also notable: it’s on the same 800V platform, so a DC fast-charge can add ~180 miles in 15 minutes under optimal conditions. Overall, the EV9 fills a crucial niche: a mainstream-priced, spacious SUV for larger families or those needing real cargo space, all wrapped in a stylish and tech-forward package. Expect it to be a hit among those who might have been waiting on the sidelines for an EV that can truly replace a gas mid-size SUV.

Rivian R1S (Adventure SUV) – From EV startup Rivian, the R1S is the SUV counterpart to the R1T pickup, and it’s one of the most intriguing electric SUVs you can buy. Think of the R1S as a rugged, off-road-capable luxury SUV (like a Land Rover) combined with Tesla-like electric prowess. It’s a bit smaller than a Chevy Tahoe – with three rows of seats for up to 7 – yet it packs up to four electric motors (one per wheel) in the flagship “Quad-Motor” version, generating a total of 835 hp. The result? Sports-car-beating acceleration (0–60 in ~3.0 seconds) and remarkable off-road ability including tank-turn-like torque vectoring and 15 inches of adjustable air suspension travel. The R1S offers two battery sizes: a 105 kWh “Standard” (no longer in production as of 2025) and a 135 kWh “Large” pack. The Large pack delivers about 321 miles of EPA range in the Quad-Motor model edmunds.com edmunds.com, or slightly more with the newer Dual-Motor AWD version (which has ~600 hp and is more efficient). In everyday use, R1S owners report ~260–300 miles of real-world range – decent for a heavy 3-row SUV. The interior is upscale and outdoorsy, with vegan leather, wood trim, and an expansive glass roof. Rivian’s UI, displayed on large center and driver screens, is unique and generally well-liked, though it doesn’t have phone mirroring. The R1S also features gear like a built-in flashlight and removable Bluetooth speaker – adventure-ready touches. While pricey (starting around $78k and easily over $90k), the R1S has carved a niche as the electric SUV for outdoor enthusiasts. It can ford 3+ feet of water, conquer trails with ease, and then zip 0–60 faster than a Corvette on pavement. MotorTrend aptly stated about its pickup sibling that the Rivian “brings much more to the table than just being quick,” excelling in a mix of performance, comfort, utility and off-road capability motortrend.com motortrend.com. The R1S carries that same DNA. For 2025, Rivian introduced a new Max Pack option (~180 kWh) on the R1S that could push range close to 400 miles (at a steep $16k extra cost), and they continue to refine their driver-assist “Rivian Driver+” and add features via updates. If your dream EV is one that can take the family camping in the backcountry and then silently blitz down a drag strip, the R1S fits the bill like nothing else.

Other Notable Electric SUVs: The roster of EV SUVs is growing monthly. In the compact/mid-size category, other models worth a look include the Volkswagen ID.4 (a practical 5-seater starting around $40k, with ~255 miles range and now with VW’s new ID.7 software that improved its charging and infotainment), the Nissan Ariya (stylish and very comfortable 5-seat crossover, ~216–304 miles range depending on battery, though limited availability), and the Chevrolet Blazer EV (new for 2024, a sporty mid-size crossover with up to ~320 miles range caranddriver.com caranddriver.com – plus an upcoming high-performance Blazer SS version). Luxury brands are all in the mix too: Audi offers the Q8 e-tron (an evolution of the e-tron SUV with ~285 miles range and trademark Audi refinement), BMW has the striking iX (ultra-techy interior and up to 324 miles range), and Mercedes sells multiple EQ models (EQB, EQE SUV, EQS SUV) emphasizing comfort and cabin luxury. Volvo/Polestar just launched the EX90 and Polestar 3 as high-end Scandinavian electric SUVs, and Cadillac is on the scene with the Lyriq (an eye-catching mid-size luxury EV starting ~$60k, ~308 miles range). Finally, one of the most unique new entrants: the Volkswagen ID. Buzz, an electric revival of the classic VW Microbus. The U.S.-spec ID. Buzz (long-wheelbase version) arrives in 2024 with seating for 7 and ~260 miles of range edmunds.com edmunds.com – offering families a nostalgic yet practical EV option. With so many choices, the electric SUV category has something for everyone, whether you prioritize sportiness, luxury, or kid-hauling capability.

The New Wave of Electric Pickup Trucks

The pickup truck, a symbol of American motoring, has now gone electric – and 2025 is the first year we truly have multiple EV trucks battling it out. These electric pickups maintain the utility and toughness trucks are known for, while adding mind-bending torque and the efficiency of electric drive. Here are the leading electric trucks making headlines:

Ford F-150 Lightning – Ford stunned the industry by taking its best-selling F-150 and creating the F-150 Lightning, an all-electric truck that looks and works like a normal pickup. Since its debut in 2022, the Lightning has proven hugely popular, and Ford has ramped up production to cut wait times. In design, it’s very much an F-150 – crew cab, 5.5-ft bed – with some unique touches (an LED lightbar grille and extra storage where the engine would be). It offers Standard and Extended Range battery options (~240 or ~320 miles EPA range) caranddriver.com caranddriver.com, and dual-motor 4×4 is standard giving 452 hp (Standard) or 580 hp (Extended) and a whopping 775 lb-ft of torque. That translates to a quick 0–60 as low as 4 seconds, despite ~6,500 lb of mass. Perhaps more importantly for truck buyers, the Lightning can tow up to 10,000 lbs (with the big battery) and haul ~2,000 lbs in the bed – similar to gas F-150 specs. It also introduced innovations like the Mega Power Frunk (a huge 14 cu ft front trunk that can carry 400 lbs of cargo) and Pro Power Onboard, which lets you use the truck as a massive generator (up to 9.6 kW) to power tools, appliances, or even your house in an outage. Real-world experience shows the Lightning is superb for daily driving – smooth, quiet, and very quick – and great for jobsite use (no fumes and you can run equipment off the battery). However, towing long distances remains its Achilles’ heel: pulling a heavy trailer can cut range by 50% or more, meaning frequent stops if you’re towing cross-country. As Edmunds noted, “the Lightning is at once both futuristic and familiar… one of the most practical and job site-friendly trucks on sale today. But its full-size truck credentials come into question when you want to tow due to modest limits and a severely restricted range.” edmunds.com edmunds.com In 2024, Ford gave the Lightning a small price drop and introduced a cheaper XL trim for commercial buyers around $50k, while a high-end Platinum Black edition tops out around $100k. Ford is also investing in improved batteries to boost range further. Overall, the F-150 Lightning earns its title as the first mainstream EV truck, bringing the F-Series into the future without losing its core appeal.

Rivian R1T – The R1T was technically the first electric pickup on U.S. roads (deliveries began in late 2021), and it remains one of the most remarkable. Built by Rivian, a young EV company, the R1T is a midsize crew-cab pickup (a bit shorter than an F-150) that’s designed for both adventure and performance. It features a clever quad-motor AWD system – one motor per wheel – in the original configuration, allowing not just 4×4 traction but true torque vectoring (the R1T can even do a “tank turn” spinning in place, though that feature is software-disabled for now). With the quad-motor Large pack, the R1T pumps out 835 hp and 908 lb-ft, launching 0–60 in just 3.0 seconds motortrend.com motortrend.com. Few trucks of any kind can keep up with that. MotorTrend singled out the R1T as “our favorite electric pickup” not just for its insane acceleration but because the “R1T is a practical, usable pickup” that excels both on-road and off motortrend.com motortrend.com. It has a 4.5-ft bed (with an available power tonneau cover), a large front trunk, and the signature “gear tunnel” – a storage tunnel between the cab and bed that’s perfect for stowing gear (or fitting options like Rivian’s slide-out camp kitchen). Range is estimated at 314 miles with the 135 kWh Large battery (slightly less with off-road tires) edmunds.com edmunds.com. New for 2024, Rivian introduced a Dual-Motor version (in Standard or Performance tune) which has lower cost and still ~400–700 hp, plus a Max Pack battery option (~180 kWh) that could extend range close to 400 miles (at the cost of ~$16k extra and some payload capacity). The R1T’s interior is upscale and adventure-themed, similar to the R1S SUV – lots of vegan leather and natural wood, with a big central screen. It’s comfortable for five and has proven reliable in real-world use so far. The truck’s off-road chops are exceptional: it has adjustable air suspension (8 to 15 inches of clearance), standard skid plates, and can wade through over 3 feet of water. Starting around $73k for 2025, the R1T is pricier than a base Lightning but offers a unique blend of luxury, performance, and outdoorsy capability that early owners adore. For those who want a cutting-edge truck that can blast through desert trails one weekend and quietly commute the next, the R1T is in a class of its own.

Chevrolet Silverado EV / GMC Sierra EV – General Motors is entering the electric truck chat with the Chevy Silverado EV, launched in 2024, and its upscale sibling GMC Sierra EV (for 2025). These trucks share GM’s new Ultium electric platform and are full-size crew cab pickups comparable to their gasoline Silverado/Sierra 1500 counterparts in size. However, they feature a unique battery-integrated body design (no separate bed and cab) and independent rear suspension, giving them a very different silhouette and proportions. The Silverado EV debuted with a limited-run WT (Work Truck) edition boasting up to 450 miles of range from its massive 200+ kWh battery caranddriver.com (in dual-motor 4WD form). More typical consumer versions like the upcoming Silverado EV RST will have around 300–350 miles of range depending on configuration. Power can reach 754 hp in max Power Wide Open Mode (on the RST trim), enabling 0–60 in under 4 seconds – impressively quick for a big truck. Towing capacity is targeted up to 10,000 lbs (and GM teases future versions up to 20k lbs). One standout feature is the Midgate on the Silverado EV: the rear wall of the cab can fold down (with the back seats) to extend the bed into the cab, allowing hauling of items up to 10 feet long with the tailgate closed. The truck also offers four-wheel steering (like the Hummer EV) for better maneuvering. The GMC Sierra EV shares these specs but adds luxury touches like an available Denali Edition 1 trim with a plush interior and a giant 16.8″ infotainment screen. The Sierra EV in top form is rated at 400 miles range and a staggering 754 hp, with an estimated 507 miles in an extended-range mode (likely in a future Max battery version) edmunds.com. Early drives indicate these GM trucks have a smooth ride and tons of power, though they are very heavy (over 8,000 lbs). Production is ramping up through 2024, with more trims (including an affordable ~$50k work truck and mid-trims around $60–$70k) coming in 2025. These trucks are crucial as competitors to Ford’s Lightning. Notably, by 2025 GM will build them with the NACS charging port so they can natively use Tesla Superchargers techcrunch.com techcrunch.com – a big plus given the Ultium Charge 360 network is still growing. If you’re in the market for a full-size electric truck, the Silverado EV and Sierra EV are worth a close look for their combination of range, innovation, and GM’s truck know-how.

Tesla Cybertruck – No discussion of EV trucks can omit the Cybertruck, Tesla’s wildly unorthodox pickup. After years of hype and delays, the first Cybertrucks hit the streets in late 2024, with volume production expected in 2025. The Cybertruck’s stainless steel exoskeleton and triangle-on-wheels shape look like sci-fi brought to life – love it or hate it, it turns heads everywhere. Beyond looks, the Cybertruck promises serious capability: Tesla is advertising configurations with 250 miles up to 500 miles of range, payload over 3,500 lbs, and towing up to 14,000 lbs (likely for a tri-motor version). A high-end trim dubbed “Cyberbeast” reportedly hits 0–60 in ~2.5 seconds motortrend.com motortrend.com, making it possibly the quickest production truck. MotorTrend, in testing a pre-production unit, noted the Cybertruck is “capable of doing some things besides generating strong opinions. One of those things is being ludicrously fast in a straight line… [and] a ton of fun with the nannies turned off”, though also cautioning about its unique steering feel and gargantuan size motortrend.com motortrend.com. The interior is stark and spacious, with seating for 6 and a massive 17″ display. Production is initially focused on an expensive “Foundation Series,” but Tesla aims for a ~$50k dual-motor variant to be the mainstream model. Key advantages include the Supercharger network access (Tesla’s own) and Tesla’s strong efficiency (helpful given the truck’s weight). However, being a first-of-its-kind design, there are unknowns about repairability, durability of that steel skin, and how its sharp-edged form will be received by safety regulators (as of writing, no crash ratings yet). Early reports suggest Tesla is addressing some issues (e.g. adding rear-wheel steering for maneuverability). If the Cybertruck lives up to its claims, it will be in a league of its own for performance and durability (the stainless body won’t rust or need paint). It’s the most polarizing vehicle of 2025, but undeniably one of the most talked-about. We will know more as owner reviews roll in over the year. For now, it represents Tesla’s audacious play to electrify America’s truck heartland.

Others and What’s Next: The electric truck field will expand even more soon. GMC’s Hummer EV was actually the first EV truck launched (early 2022) – a hulking off-road beast with 9,000+ lbs curb weight, 1,000 hp and a 0–60 of 3.3 s. It’s an exciting showcase (with features like Crab Walk diagonal driving), but its $100k+ price and ~1.7 kWh/mile consumption make it an inefficient brute – more a halo vehicle than a mass option. Stellantis (Ram) is coming in 2025 with the Ram 1500 REV, which boasts a gargantuan 229 kWh battery for up to 500 miles range, and a gasoline range-extender variant called XR. It will likely arrive late 2024 or early 2025, giving the Big Three each an EV truck. Looking further, startups like Lordstown and Bollinger had projects, but struggled financially; however Fisker has teased a compact pickup, and even Toyota is now mulling electric trucks by mid-decade. The takeaway: the workhorse pickup segment is going electric, and quickly. For consumers, these EV trucks offer tremendous torque, novel features (frunks, vehicle-to-load power), and satisfyingly low “fuel” costs per mile. But they also highlight the need for continued fast-charging buildout – when towing or hauling, they’ll gulp electrons. By planning charging stops or using the vehicle smartly (e.g. charging tools on site), owners are showing it’s feasible to swap the diesel or gasoline rig for a greener yet still capable electric.

Closing Thoughts

The best EVs of 2025 prove that the electric revolution has hit its stride. Whether it’s a commuter sedan, family SUV, or burly pickup truck, there’s an electric vehicle that excels in that role with zero tailpipe emissions and often a more enjoyable driving experience than its gas counterpart. We’ve seen ranges climb ever higher – quelling the old range anxiety fears – and charging become faster and more accessible, especially as networks like Tesla’s Superchargers open up to all. Crucially, automakers are iterating rapidly: software updates bring new features and efficiencies, while each model year is seeing improvements (more range, lower prices, added tech) that make EVs more compelling.

Experts in the auto industry are increasingly confident about EVs’ capabilities. As one striking example, Car and Driver’s editor-in-chief even daily-drove a Lucid Air for over 1,200 miles in 24 hours, proving that “Goodbye range anxiety” is more than a slogan caranddriver.com. And Consumer Reports now finds EVs have some of the highest owner satisfaction scores of any vehicle type. Of course, no car is one-size-fits-all: if you regularly tow 8000 lbs cross-country, a gas/diesel truck might still serve you better today. But for the vast majority of drivers, the best EVs of 2025 deliver what matters – practical range, exciting performance, advanced tech, and reasonable ownership costs – all while helping reduce emissions and often requiring less maintenance (no oil changes, fewer moving parts).

From the affordable Nissan Leaf to the game-changing Tesla lineup to fresh faces like Rivian and Lucid raising the bar, the EV landscape is rich and rapidly evolving. Importantly, 2025 has shown that legacy automakers can successfully reinvent popular models (F-150, Mustang, etc.) as EVs without losing their identity or appeal. This year has also brought consumers more choice in style and form factor – whether you want an elegant luxury sedan, a funky retro van, or a hardcore off-road truck, there’s an EV for that.

In summary, the electric vehicles of 2025 are not just good for electric cars – they’re good cars, period. They offer something for nearly every lifestyle, often with capabilities that surpass their gasoline predecessors (instant torque, quiet ride, lower running costs). The best of the bunch as profiled above are leading the charge (literally and figuratively) into a new automotive era. With even more models and innovations on the horizon (next-gen batteries, autonomous driving advances, etc.), now is an exciting time to consider making the switch to an EV. As the examples here illustrate, going electric no longer means compromising – it means upgrading your ride to the forefront of automotive technology. The cars, SUVs and trucks listed in this report are proof that the EV future has arrived, and it’s spectacular.

Sources:

BEST electric cars 2025 (and the ones to avoid) | What Car?
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