How much can you really do with $5,000 when it comes to securing an electric vehicle?
What if you considered trading in an older Nissan Leaf instead?
The original Nissan Leaf made history as the top-selling early electric vehicle (EV), which explains why it’s the most prevalent model you’ll encounter within this budget range. Initially, its battery had a capacity of just 24 kWh, offering limited range. Furthermore, Nissan's choice not to implement liquid cooling for the battery pack leads to a noticeable degradation over time, making the first and second-generation Leafs somewhat infamous for their less-than-ideal battery longevity. This has contributed to a broader skepticism regarding the durability of EV batteries among consumers.
You might find used Leafs priced under $2,000, but once they dip below a certain threshold, their value often shifts toward being scrapped for parts. The battery packs, in particular, can be repurposed for static energy storage solutions. But let’s say a Leaf isn’t on your wish list.
In that case, consider the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, which holds a special place in my heart since it was the very first vehicle I evaluated for Ars Technica. I fondly recall how easily its narrow front tires lost grip on a highway interchange, leading to a bit of unexpected understeer. Its unique pod-like design still stands out on American roads, making it a solid choice for urban environments due to its compactness. However, this vehicle originally came with a mere 16 kWh battery, which has likely decreased over time, making it more suitable for those living in smaller cities.
You may also explore other options that tend to fall into the compliance car category, such as the Chevrolet Spark EV or the Fiat 500e. Occasionally, you might stumble upon some Volkswagen e-Golfs or electric Ford Focuses that fit within this price bracket. Additionally, there are a few Kia Soul EVs and even some surprisingly affordable BMW i3 models available as well, which I have a positive opinion about.
Nevertheless, it’s crucial to think about how broadly you want to search for these vehicles. Online platforms like Autotrader allow you to browse options across the entire country, but could you realistically drive an i3 back home to Washington D.C. from places like Florida or Texas? What about bringing an e-Golf from California? At this cost point, it's highly likely that charging will only be available at Level 2 stations, meaning you would need to stop more often than the targeted goal of “every 50 miles” set by the Biden administration’s NEVI plan for charging infrastructure. While creating a fun video series by purchasing various inexpensive EVs from distant locations sounds entertaining, practical realities dictate that long-distance vehicle purchases should include considerations for shipping costs.
