The Federal Tax Credit Makes These Affordable EVs Too Good to Skip

Electric vehicles (EVs) are finally within reach for more buyers, with some models priced under $35,000 and most under $45,000. The federal EV tax credit, worth up to $7,500, can make these affordable options even easier on the wallet—but it won’t last forever.

To get the full credit, the vehicle has to meet certain rules: it must be assembled in North America, stay under specific price caps, and use batteries from approved countries. Buyers also need to meet income limits, and the credit applies right at the point of sale, slashing the upfront cost immediately.

But the clock is ticking. The incentive now expires September 30, 2025, and eligible EVs must be purchased and delivered by then—so demand is likely to spike, and availability could tighten fast.

To provide the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturers and other authoritative sources, including Car and Driver, Edmunds, and the EPA. The models featured in this list have been ordered from the highest starting price to lowest.

2025 Ford F-150 Lightning

Base Price: $54,780

The Ford F-150 Lightning blends the toughness of America’s top-selling truck with the instant power of an electric motor. Starting at $54,780, it delivers up to 240 miles of range and can tow 7,700 pounds, making it a true electric workhorse.

The Lightning comes with a roomy SuperCrew cab and a large front trunk for extra storage. Inside, tech like a big touchscreen, over-the-air updates, and ProPower make it a practical, powerful, and eco-friendly truck.

2025 Cadillac Optiq

Base Price: $53,495

The 2025 Cadillac Optiq brings luxury and performance to the EV world at a starting price of $52,895. Its dual-motor all-wheel drive produces 300 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 302 miles, plus features like Super Cruise and Google Built-In for seamless connectivity.

This isn’t your grandfather’s Cadillac, nor a track-focused speed machine. The Optiq is aimed at younger drivers and competes well with vehicles like the Hyundai Ioniq N and Tesla Model Y, offering style, tech, and everyday usability.

2025 Honda Prologue

Base Price: $47,400

Honda has plenty of experience with hybrids, but the Prologue is its first fully electric SUV. Starting at $47,400, it offers up to 308 miles of range, making it perfect for daily commutes and weekend adventures.

Inside, the Prologue offers a roomy cabin with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Google Built-In, comfortably seating five and providing up to 54.5 cubic feet of cargo space. Honda may have been late to the EV game, but the Prologue is quickly proving itself with its practicality and all-around appeal.

2025 Tesla Model Y

Base Price: $44,990

The 2025 Tesla Model Y stays at the top of the electric SUV charts thanks to its mix of performance, range, and tech. Starting at $47,990, it seats five, offers up to 280 miles of range, and delivers up to 76.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded.

The Model Y hits the sweet spot between performance and practicality while packing an impressive set of safety features. With strong resale value, low running costs, and a sleek, futuristic design, it continues to set the standard for electric crossovers.

2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV

Base Price: $44,600

For years, fans joked about a Camaro crossover or Corvette SUV—and muscle-car purists weren’t exactly thrilled. Luckily, those wild ideas may have inspired the Chevrolet Blazer EV, and that’s a very welcome turn.

The base Blazer EV delivers 288 horsepower, 283 miles of range, seats five, and offers plenty of space in a sleek, well-designed package. The SS version cranks up the performance, feeling more like a modern-day Chevelle, while the Camaro continues to carry the classic muscle-car torch.

2025 Kia EV6

Base Price: $42,900

If you want an EV that can handle just about everything, the Kia EV6 is worth a look. It combines practicality and versatility with strong performance, long range, and fast-charging capability.

Inside, the EV6 seats five comfortably and packs plenty of cargo space, while dual 12.3-inch curved displays keep the driver informed and entertained. It’s versatile enough to handle daily commutes and still deliver weekend thrills.

2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5

Base Price: $42,600

While the Hyundai Ioniq 5 shares its DNA with the Kia EV6, it carves out its own identity with a bold, retro-futuristic design. Performance and dimensions are similar, but unlike the EV6’s sleek modern style, the Ioniq 5 embraces a boxy, standout look.

Like its Kia sibling, the Ioniq 5 can excite even die-hard car enthusiasts, especially in the zippy Ioniq 5 N. Every trim impresses, though, with a roomy, flexible interior, intuitive controls, modern tech, and Hyundai’s SmartSense safety suite.

2025 Tesla Model 3

Base Price: $42,490

The Tesla Model 3 sets the standard for electric sedans with its sleek design and strong performance. Starting at $42,490, it’s well-equipped and gives drivers access to Tesla’s vast Supercharger network.

Inside, the Model 3 is minimalist and modern, with a 15-inch touchscreen handling nearly everything and seating for five in a quiet, comfortable cabin. With top-notch safety ratings, advanced driver-assist features, and a recent refresh, it’s still one of the most capable and efficient EVs on the road.

2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV

Base Price: $33,600

The Chevrolet Equinox EV is one of the most budget-friendly electric SUVs available. Starting at $33,600, it delivers up to 307 miles of range and pairs a sleek, modern design with a tech-packed interior.

The Equinox EV offers a roomy cabin with plenty of rear legroom and up to 57.2 cubic feet of cargo space, plus DC fast charging that adds about 70 miles in 10 minutes. With its mix of performance, practicality, and affordability, it’s an easy choice for anyone wanting a well-equipped EV that can handle it all.