Gone are the days when electric cars meant constant charging stops and careful route planning. Today, EVs are about freedom and peace of mind, not anxiety about the next charging station.
The data tells a compelling story:EV 'out of charge' breakdowns have plummeted to just 1.85% in 2024, with projections showing further decline into 2025 as charging infrastructure continues to expand. It's a dramatic shift that's transforming how we think about electric driving.
Modern affordable EVs now offer impressive ranges between 250-300 miles, with over 50,000 public charging points in the UK alone, making traditional range anxiety more myth than reality. But why pay premium prices for that peace of mind?
Want to know which affordable electric cars can handle those long journeys without the stress? The ones that let you forget about constant charging stops and complicated route planning?
Read on as our Motorfinity experts have compiled a list of those EVs that are changing range anxiety into range confidence and proves that you don't need to pay premium prices for impressive range.
Cheapest New Cars With The Longest Range
Peugeot e-208 Electric Hatchback
Retail Price: £32,900.00
Savings: £2,606.00
Motorfinity Price: £30,294.00
Real Word Range Over 215 miles (official 245 miles)
Charging Speed: 25 minutes (20-80% DC Fast Charging)
Specific trim: 115kw Gt 51kwh 5dr Auto
Make an Enquiry
Our first car in this list is the Peugeot e-208. Our Recommended trim is the Peugeot e-208 115kW GT which tackles range anxiety head-on with its impressive real-world range of over 215 miles on a single charge,
When you do need to charge, the swift 100kW DC fast-charging capability means you can add 80% battery in just 25 minutes - perfect for a quick coffee break on longer trips.
The cabin offers premium comfort with a stylish interior featuring a 3D digital cockpit and artificial leather upholstery, though rear space is a bit tight for taller passengers.
The significant savings in running costs and available tax incentives make it more accessible.
Most impressively, the e-208 requires minimal compromise - it drives like a conventional car with responsive handling that excels in both city and motorway conditions, proving that going electric doesn't mean sacrificing the familiar pleasures of driving.
Vauxhall Corsa
Retail Price: £29,045.00
Savings: £791.00
Motorfinity Price: £28,254.00
Real World Range: 178 miles (official claimed range 222 miles)
Charging Speed: 30 minutes (0-80% on fast DC Charging)
Specific trim: 100kW Design 50kWh 5dr Auto
Make an Enquiry
The Vauxhall Corsa Electric makes the switch to zero-emission driving remarkably straightforward, behaving just like its petrol counterpart in everyday use.
With a real-world range of 174 miles, it offers enough range for daily commutes and occasional longer trips without constant charging anxiety.
When you do need to charge, the 100kW fast-charging capability means you can add 80% battery in just 30 minutes - perfect for a quick break on longer journeys.
Despite these compromises, the Corsa Electric's biggest strength is how normal it feels to drive and live with - it's an electric car that doesn't demand you change your lifestyle to accommodate it.
Renault Megane E-Tech
Retail Price: £32,690.00
Savings: £5,464.00
Motorfinity Price: £27,226.00
Real Range: Around 225 miles (Official range: 280 miles)
Charging Speed: 0-80% in 70 minutes
Specific Trim: EV60 160kW Evolution Comfort Range 60kWh 5dr Auto
Make an Enquiry
The Megane E-Tech Evolution Comfort Range delivers on its premium aspirations with an impressive real-world range of 200-220 miles, making range anxiety a distant concern for daily driving.
When you do need to charge, the 130kW rapid charging capability means you can add meaningful range during a coffee break, though the 70+ minutes for a 0-80% charge is longer than some rivals.
Inside, you're greeted by a tech-forward interior featuring Google's excellent infotainment system that makes journey planning effortless.
The 220hp motor provides smooth, confident performance, and the sophisticated suspension delivers exceptional refinement on longer trips.
While the 440-liter boot is generous, the high lip can make loading awkward, and the stylish sloping roofline does compromise rear headroom - small compromises in what's otherwise a thoroughly modern electric car that prioritizes comfort and technology. C
Omoda E5
Retail Price: £33,055.00
Savings: £3,010.00
Motorfinity Price: £30,045.00
Real World Range: 257 miles.
Charging Speed: 30-80% in 28 minutes on DC fast Charging
Specific trim: 150kw Comfort 61kwh 5dr Auto
Make an Enquiry
The Omoda E5 offers an impressive official range of 257 miles and maintains strong real-world efficiency at 3.8 miles per kWh, making it a practical choice for daily driving.
Its relatively modest 80kW DC charging speed means longer stops during journeys, taking 28 minutes just for a 30-80% charge - notably slower than many rivals.
Around town, the E5 delivers a comfortable ride with smooth power delivery, though the brakes can feel jerky at low speeds.
While the interior features an impressive twin-screen setup and good build quality, the cramped rear space and smaller-than-expected 380-liter boot might limit its appeal as a family car.
The car shines most during relaxed cruising, with decent refinement marred only by noticeable tire noise at highway speeds, making it best suited for drivers who prioritize comfort and value over charging speed or maximum practicality.
Cupra Born
Retail Price: £34,535.00
Savings: £7,359.00
Motorfinity Price: £27,176.00
Specific Trim: 150kW V1 58kWh 5dr Auto Real World Range: 210 - 219 miles.
Charging Speed: 10-80% in 30 minutes.
Make an Enquiry
The Cupra Born combines sporty handling with practical electric driving, offering a real-world range of up to 219 miles.
When you need to charge, its 125kW DC charging capability means you can add meaningful range in about 30 minutes - making longer journeys quite manageable.
On the road, the Born delivers a more engaging drive than many electric rivals, with precise steering and tidy handling, though the ride is slightly firmer than some competitors.
The 385-liter boot and spacious interior make it practical for daily use, while the comfortable driving position and good forward visibility add to its everyday usability.
The main compromise comes from the fiddly touch-sensitive dashboard controls, though the recently improved steering wheel buttons make life easier. For drivers wanting a sportier electric car that doesn't sacrifice practicality, the Born makes a compelling case.
Skoda Enyaq
Retail Price: £27,250.00
Savings: £3,608.00
Motorfinity Price: £23,642.00
Real World Range : Around 230 miles (official range up to 250 miles)
Charging Speed: 10-80% in 23 minutes on DC fast charging
Specific trim: 125kw 50 55kwh 5dr Auto
Make an Enquiry
Our entry level recommended variant offers a practical approach to electric motoring with its around 230 mile real world range.
. The 145kW rapid charging capability means you can add meaningful range in just 23 minutes during longer journeys, making occasional trips beyond its range quite manageable.
While its 9.1-second 0-62mph time isn't particularly quick for an EV, it delivers smooth, comfortable progress that's ideal for family life.
The spacious interior remains a highlight with room for five adults and a massive 585-liter boot, while build quality impresses.
The Enyaq 50 delivers a compelling package that combines space, comfort, and sufficient range without the higher price tag of longer-range versions.
_1682338311.jpg)
Lexus UX Electric Hatchback
Retail Price: £39,995.00
Savings: £12,811.00
Motorfinity Price: £27,184.00
Real World Range : Around 270 miles (official range of 274-281 miles based on wheels)
Charging Speed: 0-80% in around 80 minutes.
Specific trim: 300e 150kW 72.8 kWh Urban 5dr E-CVT
Make an Enquiry
The Lexus UX 300e combines premium comfort with impressive real-world range, delivering around 270 miles between charges - making it a practical choice for both daily commutes and longer journeys.
While the 50kW charging speed isn't the fastest in class and requires using the less common CHAdeMO connector, overnight home charging in 9.5 hours means you'll start each day with a full battery.
The refined driving experience shines through with minimal road noise and a smooth ride that particularly excels on motorways.
Inside, the premium cabin offers excellent build quality and comfortable seating, though rear space is somewhat tight for taller passengers.
For drivers seeking a luxurious electric SUV with proven Lexus reliability and strong real-world range, the UX 300e delivers - especially if most charging will be done at home rather than relying on public rapid chargers.
Is Range Anxiety is even a thing?
As discussed above, range anxiety is not as important as it used to be due to cars with long range and increase in EV infrastructure.
"It's not range anxiety anymore - it's range awareness," says Professor Colin Herron in our recent podcast. He said "Drivers are just more mindful of their journeys now, just like they are with petrol cars."
He's got a point. With most new EVs easily covering 200-300 miles on a single charge, that old worry about getting stranded has mostly disappeared.
This shift in perspective makes sense when you look at real-world driving habits. Most daily commutes are under 30 miles, and the UK's charging network has grown significantly. Even budget-friendly EVs now offer ranges that comfortably cover a week's worth of typical driving.
Professor Herron also points out that battery performance has exceeded expectations: " Most EV batteries last far beyond the initial mileage predictions," he notes. This improved reliability, combined with faster charging options, means drivers can plan their journeys with confidence.
The change from anxiety to awareness reflects a broader shift in how we think about electric cars. It's no longer about whether you'll make it to your destination – it's about smart journey planning, just like checking your fuel gauge before a long trip.
What Influence Your EV Range
Battery capacity is the foundation of your electric vehicle's range, typically offering between 60-400 miles on a single charge depending on the model and specifications.
Weather plays a crucial role in battery performance, with optimal efficiency around 70°F (21°C). Cold weather can significantly reduce range by up to 30%, while extreme heat causes faster battery depletion.
Your driving style has a direct impact on how far you can go. Maintaining speeds between 50-60 mph provides optimal efficiency, while aggressive acceleration and high-speed driving above 65 mph can dramatically reduce range.
Terrain affects battery consumption in predictable ways. Hilly routes demand more power on climbs, though regenerative braking helps recover some energy on descents. A-roads often prove more efficient than motorways for preserving battery life.
Vehicle weight directly influences range, with heavier loads requiring more power to move. Additional passengers and cargo can noticeably impact your driving distance, making weight management an important consideration for longer journeys.
Understanding these factors helps you plan more effectively and get the most from your EV's battery. Real-world range often differs from manufacturer estimates because these elements work together to influence your actual driving experience.
Motorfinity and Electric Cars.
At Motorfinity, we provide exclusive discounts on brand-new electric and hybrid cars for our eligible audience. You can enjoy on average £7,000 on all makes and models.
Are you eligible?
Our nation’s Armed Forces, Veterans, Emergency Services, NHS, Police and Prison Services, the Education and Social Care sectors and more form our eligible audience.
Related Car Reviews and Articles
Related Reads
Best New Cars for Under £40,000 in 2024 That Feel a Lot More Expensive
3 minutes
In the automotive world of 2023, a handful of brand-new car models have emerged as exceptional value, offering a driving experience and luxury typically associated with much higher price tags.
Read More
Affordable Family Cars 2024
Estimated Read Time: 2 minutes 30 sec
Explore the best affordable family cars of 2023 in our detailed review.
Read More
Cars Under 20k
This comprehensive list is compiled by the Motorfinity experts and includes a list of vehicles that fit your budget and that are not a trade off. These cars don't have any less features than high end cars, are comfortable to drive, have lots of extras, have excellent safety rating and YES do not feel cheap when you step into them.
Read More