What to Expect From the Top EV Companies Today

Electric vehicles (EVs) have taken the automotive industry by storm, thanks to their environmental benefits. Thanks to their increasing popularity, new car companies have found their places on the market, while veteran automakers have started developing their own EV models.

Major EV Companies

The list of companies that are producing EVs is a long one. It’s a mix of household names, all-EV automakers, and some brands that have shifted from developing batteries to an entire vehicle.

As the competition in the EV segment gets tougher by the day, consumers have singled out the manufacturers they consider to be the best on the market. Check out the most popular EV companies below.

Tesla, Inc.

It’s impossible not to mention Tesla when talking about the top EV companies today. In 2022, the company recorded a net worth of $828.85B, making it the most valuable automaker in the world. Founded by a group of engineers in 2003, Tesla is focused on providing sustainable energy solutions, which include the use of electric cars.

In 2008, the company began rolling out the Roadster, which introduced the world to cutting-edge battery technology and electric powertrain. Tesla, Inc. has come a long way since then, releasing the Model S in 2012一the world’s first all-electric sedan一followed by the Model X in 2015, Model 3 in 2016, and Model Y in 2019.

Most Notable EV From Tesla, Inc.

2022 Tesla Model 3

Sporting an impressive range and high-tech features set at an affordable price range, the Tesla Model 3 has easily become one of the most sought-after electric sedans on the market. It comes in three trim levels: standard range, long range, and performance.

Aside from having a luxurious-looking cabin, the Model 3 also comes with customizable throttle response, brake feel, and steering weight.

SAIC-GM-Wuling Motors

SAIC-GM-Wuling (SGMW) Motors was established in 2002 as a joint venture among three motor companies: SAIC Motor Corporation Limited, Liuzhou Wuling Motors Co Limited, and GM China. Following General Motors’ global manufacturing system, the multi-company is involved in producing commercial, family, passenger, and mini vehicles.

In 2020, the company launched its first all-electric vehicle in the form of the Wuling Hong Guang, which is a compact MPV. Priced at $5,000, the Wuling Hong Guang EV stood as the most affordable EV on the market, making it the third best-selling and most popular EV around the globe. The model got so popular that it even outsold Tesla cars in China.

Most Notable EV from SGMW Motors

Wuling Hong Guang EV

Unlike other EVs, the Wuling Hong Guang isn’t built to be performance-ready. Despite having only 12-inch wheels in diameter and sporting an electric motor with 27 hp, this mini EV can legally be driven on public roads.

The Wuling Hong Guang’s size makes it easy to dash in and out of traffic. However, it tends to have sloppy steering and can be uncomfortable to drive in especially on pothole-filled roads.

Toyota

If you’re a certified gearhead, the Toyota brand doesn’t need much introduction. The Japanese automaker started off as an automatic loom company in 1933 and has since released some of the most popular models in the world, such as the Corolla, RAV4, and Camry.

In 1997, Toyota took its first step into producing the world’s first hybrid in the form of the Prius. It also launched the RAV4 EV, which was a joint project with Tesla. Unfortunately, the automaker’s first EV was discontinued in 2014.

Most Notable EV from Toyota

2023 Toyota bZ4X

By 2023, Toyota plans to release the bZ4X, an all-electric SUV that has the same size as the RAV4. It’s the first of seven models that will have the BZ moniker. The electric SUV sports busy styling and angular body lines, resembling the RAV4.

The bZ4X also features an open concept interior for a more spacious feel. This feat is made possible because the EV won’t need a transmission.

BYD

Founded in 1995, BYD started off as a battery tech and consumer electronics company. It manufactured smartphones, tablets, and laptops for partners like Apple, Dell, Toshiba, Microsoft, and more.

BYD entered the EV in 2004 when it launched the ET. Four years after, the company released the F3DM一the world’s first mass-produced plug-in hybrid neighborhood EV. Now considered one of China’s largest EV companies in terms of sales, BYD has produced several models, including the Han, Qin Pro, Song Pro, Tang, and Yuan.

Most Notable EV from BYD

Qin Plus PHEV

The Qin Plus PHEV is equipped with a 400-km range and a 47.5 kWh battery, which are only some of the reasons why this model is one of the best-selling vehicles in China. It also sports an engine with 136 hp and comes with a fast-charging feature, ramping up a 30% battery life to 80% in as fast as 30 minutes.

General Motors

General Motors (GM) is one of the country’s oldest and most successful automakers. With GM’s four core brands一Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac一the company’s success went as far as owning 50% of market shares in the automotive industry.

In 2017, GM entered the EV market with a mission to introduce environmentally friendly electric cars. It debuted the Chevrolet Bolt as the company’s first EV with plans to introduce a full EV lineup by 2035.

Most Notable EV from GM

2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV

Like the previous model year, the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt holds the same 238-mile range and 65 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. It sports the same powertrain and suspension as its predecessor but features a redesigned interior.

The Bolt EV comes with a dual-level charge cord, which lets the driver plug it into a standard three-prong, 120-volt or 240-volt outlet. It’s also equipped with the Chevy Safe Assist, which includes forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and following distance indicator.

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