Autotrader’s 10 Best Electric Vehicles of 2023 and Why Tesla is Surprisingly Missing
Autotrader’s list of the 10 best electric vehicles (EVs) of 2023 is causing quite a stir for one glaring reason: Tesla, a brand synonymous with the EV revolution, is notably absent. While the list features a range of exceptional EVs from brands like Hyundai, Kia, Porsche, Ford, BMW, and Nissan, the absence of any Tesla models is hard to ignore.
Why No Tesla?
When queried about this omission, Autotrader spokesperson Brenna Buehler of Cox Automotive provided a somewhat ambiguous explanation: “Tesla models were included in consideration but didn’t get sufficiently high scores by the Editorial team to qualify for the top 10.”
Despite Tesla meeting the established criteria — offering 2023 model year vehicles available in at least 15 states, being purely electric (no hybrids or fuel cells considered), and having base prices under $100,000 — they didn’t make the cut. This peculiar gap invites debates among enthusiasts and experts alike.
Featured EVs of 2023
Here’s a closer look at the selected EVs, highlighting what makes each a standout:
2023 BMW i4
BMW’s i4 revamps the automaker’s EV game. Unlike the i3, which fell short in both looks and performance, the i4 is a Gran Coupe that lives up to BMW’s reputation for delivering driving pleasure and aesthetic appeal.
2023 Ford F-150 Lightning
In its second year, the F-150 Lightning proves that Ford can meld decades of pickup know-how with cutting-edge EV tech. The Lightning offers practical details and user-friendly features, solidifying its place in the EV market.
2023 Genesis Electrified G80
Genesis’ luxury EV sedan, the Electrified G80, redefines executive transport without a hefty price tag. It transforms the gasoline-powered G80 into an all-wheel-drive electric powerhouse, maintaining luxury while embracing sustainability.
2023 Genesis GV60
This all-new compact luxury EV SUV from Genesis shows that the brand can successfully expand its lineup. The GV60 boasts style, performance, and range, making it a compelling choice in the compact SUV segment.
2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5
The Ioniq 5 continues to impress in its second year, bridging the gap until the Ioniq 6 arrives in the U.S. This compact EV SUV remains Hyundai’s star offering, earning its spot on the list for two consecutive years.
2023 Kia EV6
Kia’s EV6, a near-luxury midsize crossover, continues to earn accolades for its innovative design and performance. It reaffirms Kia’s risk-taking approach, setting its vehicles apart in the crowded EV market.
2023 Lucid Air
Lucid’s Air sedan showcases a new manufacturer’s successful foray into the EV market. Praised for its ingenious engineering, attention to detail, and high build quality, the Lucid Air also boasts a beautifully crafted design.
2023 Nissan Ariya
Nissan’s Ariya builds on the legacy of the Leaf, evolving with greater scale and range. This model signifies Nissan’s commitment to growing its EV family while expanding its reach within the market.
2023 Porsche Taycan
The Taycan remains a fixture in the sport sedan class, offering blistering acceleration, impressive handling, and a substantial range. With variants like the Taycan Cross Turismo and Sport Turismo, it caters to diverse preferences.
2023 Rivian R1T
Rivian, a rising star in the EV sector, impresses with its R1T electric pickup truck. This design-focused vehicle underscores Rivian’s potential to mature into a significant player in the EV industry.
Conclusion
Autotrader’s 2023 list of top electric vehicles features a diverse array of models from various manufacturers, each delivering unique advantages in the growing EV market. The conspicuous absence of Tesla vehicles opens up intriguing discussions about the shifting dynamics and standards in the EV landscape.
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Michael Cole, Editor of Automotive.fyi
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