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Tetyana Yermolenko
Correspondent
TOP-5 most affordable electric cars of 2025 – savings without compromise
The budget segment of electric cars is experiencing a real boom. Which models offer the best quality at affordable prices and why 2025 has become a turning point for mass electromobility? We analyze the top of the best inexpensive electric cars on the Delo.ua portal, a business portal about the economy, business and economics.
The revolution in the automotive industry has finally reached the affordable segment. What seemed impossible just three years ago – a high-quality electric car for the price of a regular gasoline car – has become a reality today. Chinese and European manufacturers offer electric cars from $22,000 to $38,000, which are not inferior in functionality to premium models.
Absolute leaders: TOP-5 budget electric cars
The expert assessment of the best inexpensive electric cars is based on the ratio of price, quality, reliability and practicality of operation. These models have proven their competitiveness in leading global markets.
Leaders of the rating of budget electric cars:
- BYD Seagull – from $22,800, range 380 km, fast charging 30 min
- Wuling Air EV Lingguang – from $24,500, range 300 km, compact size
- Chery Ant – from $26,200, range 410 km, aluminum body
- GWM Ora 03 – from $28,400, 420 km range, premium interior
- Geely Geometry E – from $31,700, range 440 km, level 2 autopilot
BYD Seagull sets a new standard for affordable electric vehicles. Starting at $22,800, the buyer gets a fully electric car with a 38.8 kWh battery, providing a range of 380 km on the CLTC cycle. The model uses safe LFP batteries produced in-house by BYD.
The Wuling Air EV Lingguang is positioned as the ideal city car. Its compact dimensions (3.65 m long) and maneuverability make it optimal for dense urban areas, and its price starting from $24,500 makes it most attractive to young buyers.
Optimal options in terms of price/quality ratio
The best budget electric cars aren't necessarily the cheapest. The real value lies in the optimal balance of cost, functionality, and durability.
The golden middle of the budget segment:
- JAC iEV6E – from $25,600, 350 km range, 8-year battery warranty
- Dongfeng eπ008 – from $27,900, range 465 km, panoramic roof
- Neta V – from $29,100, 380 km range, intelligent functions
- Leapmotor T03 – from $30,800, range 403 km, charging speed 48 kW
- Xpeng G3i – from $33,500, range 460 km, voice control
JAC iEV6E is distinguished by its reliability and simplicity of design. The Chinese manufacturer provides a record 8-year warranty on the traction battery, which indicates confidence in the quality of the product. The model is adapted for operation in various climatic conditions.
Dongfeng eπ008 offers the longest range in its price segment – 465 km according to the NEDC cycle. A spacious interior, panoramic roof and modern multimedia system make this model attractive for family use.
Technological innovations in the budget segment
Affordable electric cars in 2025 will feature technologies that were only recently available in premium models. Mass production and competition are dramatically reducing the cost of advanced solutions.
Progressive technologies of budget electric cars:
- new generation LFP batteries (increased energy density, 3000+ cycles);
- integrated power units (motor + inverter + gearbox);
- fast DC charging up to 60 kW in the basic version;
- regenerative braking with intensity control;
- driver assistance systems (AEB, BSM, LKA).
Chery Ant uses a unique @LIFE platform with an aluminum body that is 30% lighter than its steel counterpart. The weight reduction allows for increased range and improved acceleration dynamics.
GWM Ora 03 is equipped with an intelligent battery management system that optimizes battery temperature for maximum efficiency and durability.
Real operating costs
The real savings from a budget electric car are revealed during operation. Low energy and maintenance costs make such cars extremely profitable compared to gasoline counterparts.
Operating cost structure:
- charging – 40-70 UAH per 100 km (versus 200-280 UAH for gasoline);
- maintenance – 2-3 times cheaper than a traditional car;
- insurance – discounts of up to 15% for environmental friendliness;
- parking is free in most cities in Ukraine;
- depreciation is slow due to high demand.
Neta V demonstrates record-breaking efficiency: average annual operating costs do not exceed $1,200, including charging, insurance, and scheduled maintenance.
The Leapmotor T03 offers one of the lowest cost of ownership thanks to an energy efficiency of 13.8 kWh/100 km and a 5-year warranty on all electrical system components.
Infrastructure and usability
The development of the network of charging stations makes budget electric cars increasingly practical for everyday use. In Ukraine, the number of charging stations is growing by 40-50% every year.
Compatibility with charging infrastructure:
- Type 2 (AC) – standard for slow charging, all models;
- CCS Combo 2 (DC) – fast charging, most modern models;
- CHAdeMO – Japanese standard, less commonly used;
- GB/T is a Chinese standard, requires an adapter in Ukraine;
- home charging – possibility of installing a 7-11 kW wallbox.
Geely Geometry E supports charging at all types of stations thanks to the universal adapter included in the basic package. Charging time from 10% to 80% is only 35 minutes at a fast DC station.
Xpeng G3i integrates with a mobile app to find the nearest charging stations, plan routes, and remotely control charging.
Purchase and service
The availability of budget electric vehicles in Ukraine is constantly improving due to the expansion of official dealer networks and the development of independent service centers.
The Wuling Air EV Lingguang can be purchased through an official importer with a full warranty and service support. The cost of a new car is from $24,500, used 2023-2024 – from $19,800.
BYD Seagull is available both new (from $22,800) and on the secondary market (from $18,500). A developed network of service partners ensures high-quality service throughout Ukraine.
Independent service centers are mastering the repair and maintenance of Chinese electric vehicles, which reduces the cost of service by 20-30% compared to official dealers.
Forecasts and development prospects
Experts predict further price reductions for budget electric cars and an expansion of the model range. By 2027, the appearance of high-quality electric cars costing $18,000-20,000 is expected.
The Ukrainian market for budget electric cars is showing stable growth: in 2024, the share of models costing up to $35,000 accounted for 60% of total electric vehicle sales.
Technological progress and economies of scale are making electromobility affordable for the middle class. Budget electric cars of 2025 have proven that eco-friendly transportation can be practical, economical, and affordable for a wide range of Ukrainian buyers.
