Updated: The 2022 Volkswagen ID.4 Electric Crossover – VW’s Shot at Redemption Is Built to Impress

by Justin Fischer | Last updated May 3, 2022 | Electric Vehicles, New Cars

Spring 2022 Update: Volkswagen of America has announced upcoming updates for the 2022 model year

• Prices are up by $765 across the board
• DC fast charging speeds will get a bump up to 135 kW and an improved charging curve
• Range will increase, but VW hasn’t shared specifics
• Auto-hold, a popular EV feature, will arrive via software updates
• Plug-and-charge will make plugging in at Electrify America easier
• There will be a cheaper $35,000 base model later this year
• Production will begin in Tennessee in fall of 2022

Back in 2015, I don’t think anyone would have guessed that Volkswagen would be a leader in electric transportation just five years into the future. VW had been knowingly installing emissions testing defeat devices in cars for years before they were caught red-handed. The dieselgate scandal was a make-or-break moment for the largest automaker in the world. At times, it appeared that consumers were angry enough to turn their backs on VW after its 87-year history.

How did VW make it out alive? After sharing a new path forward, a shuffle in leadership, and an abundance of apologies, Volkswagen announced plans to invest in the production of electric vehicles with the goal of having 25% of annual sales being electric by 2025. With VW leadership drawing parallels between the classic Beetle and this ‘electric vehicle for the masses’, the 2022 Volkswagen ID.4 is the chosen symbol of the automaker’s new era.

Volkswagen’s all-electric ID.4 crossover represents second chances, a corporate gamble and five years of intensive engineering. At least $48 billion dollars have been funneled into the development of the all-new MEB battery electric platform that the ID.4 sits on. VW says that ID stands for Intelligent Design. Will the ID.4’s tech, powertrain and comfort appeal to car buyers looking for the smart choice for their next vehicle?

2022 Volkswagen ID.4 Specs: Capable RWD, but AWD Is Where the Fun’s At

Volkswagen likes to point out that the ID.4 is their first rear-wheel drive car since the Beetle. The ID.4’s single-motor option features a rear-mounted motor that produces 201 horsepower, 229 lb-ft of torque and a 0-60 time of 7.6 seconds. It’s not fast, but acceleration is smooth and steadily supplied. It’s a different kind of spaceship feel than what you get in a Tesla, but the ease of gliding to highway speeds in near silence is satisfying in its own right. The RWD variant can tow up to 2,200 pounds, but only the First Edition came with an included tow hitch.

The all-wheel drive version of the ID.4 is where this crossover really shines. Adding another motor to the front axle increases horsepower to 295 with 339 lb-ft of torque and a very satisfying 0-60 time of just 5.4 seconds. However, it’s not quite a car you’d take to the track. The handling is well-tuned for attacking winding roads in inclement weather, although it maintains a more family-oriented demeanor. At the front is an induction motor that only engages when extra power or traction is needed. The additional power enables 2,700 pounds of towing. A few off-roading tests have shown that it isn’t equipped for rugged overlanding, at least not without some modification. 

The 2021 ID.4 earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and a five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s rigorous crash testing.

The Interior Isn’t Typical Volkswagen

Stepping inside the ID.4 is a blend of the familiar and next-generation minimalism. There’s no front trunk (or frunk), but there are plenty of other reminders that this is an electric car. Kind of like a Tesla, nearly all controls are accessed via the 10 to 12 inch infotainment screen, with size depending on the trim. There’s something here that even a Model Y doesn’t have: a second screen for the gauge cluster, mounted right behind the steering wheel. It displays speed, remaining range and navigation guidance in an easy-to-see location. This extra screen makes driving the ID.4 feel much more comfortable and carefree.

Overuse of haptic controls on the steering wheel and beneath the infotainment screen may be an issue for some drivers, but in my experience, the rest of the interior’s design more than makes up for the occasional inconvenience. The cavernous cabin has 101 cubic feet of passenger volume, which puts it on par with the Toyota Rav4 and Honda CR-V. Backseat passengers have more than enough leg and headroom, even those who are well over six feet in height. The 30.3 cubic feet of cargo room provides ample space for groceries and such, and that expands to 64.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

All ID.4’s include Travel Assist, Volkswagen’s new driver assistance technology. It’s essentially a combination of lane centering and adaptive cruise control, and drivers love it so far. VW plans to improve Travel Assist and other tech features in all of its upcoming EVs via over-the-air updates. 

Trim Options Offer Great Value at the Price Point

The 2022 Volkswagen ID.4 is available in Pro, Pro S and Gradient trim levels. The base Pro starts at $41,190 including destination charges. The Pro interior features gray and black cloth seating, a 10” infotainment screen, and heated front seats. For an additional $3,680, the AWD Pro adds a heated windshield and steering wheel, a tow hitch and an extra 0.6” of ground clearance. One of the most lauded interior features is the interior accent lighting. The driver or passenger can choose out of 10 colors to illuminate the front dash and doors, creating a very personalized feel. 

The exterior is largely the same among ID.4 trims. The Pro gets LED headlights and taillights, but not the sci-fi-inspired projector LEDs of higher trims. 19” alloy wheels on the base trim is quite the treat. The ID.4 has more ground clearance than most competitors. RWD versions have 8.2 inches of clearance, and AWD cars are lifted up to 8.7 inches. That’s far above the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Tesla Model Y, and matched that of the popular Subaru Forester.

The Pro S package is an additional $4,500. For the money, a panoramic glass roof (with an electric sunshade), 12” infotainment screen and a choice of lunar gray or black and brown vegan leather perforated (but not ventilated) seats. The Pro S trim gets 8-way power-adjusting seats with 4-way lumbar support that also has a massage setting. A power liftgate is included with the Pro S too. Taken together, the interior of the ID.4 Pro S feels a class above the price point. 

At the top of the ID.4’s trim options is the Gradient package that can be added to the Pro S for an extra $1,500. The Gradient package adds silver accents, a black roof, 20 inch rims and unlocks the Kings Red paint option. 

Range and Charging Speeds Are Acceptable, but Likely to Increase

The range of the 2022 Volkswagen ID.4 is just enough to make it great for road trips, however it’s a notch below the best of the best. On the EPA test cycle, the 2021 model is rated for 260 miles in the RWD Pro trim, and 250 miles in the RWD Pro S. For AWD variants, there’s a 10 mile penalty. Real-world highway testing shows that the ID.4 can go 220-240 miles at 70 mph with ease, and nearly 300 miles on a charge in the city. VW has hinted at a minor range increase for the 2022 model year. Unlike most other EVs, drivers can opt in or out of full regenerative braking. ‘D’ mode lets the vehicle coast to a stop much like a combustion vehicle. ‘B’ mode turns up regenerative braking to the max, and returns more power to the battery during every time your foot lets off the accelerator pedal. It’s nice to have options. 

Over 80% of EV charging is done at home, and the ID.4 gets it done without a hassle. The car comes with a 120 volt ‘level 1’ charger that is only meant to be used for overnight charging. If quicker speeds are necessary, a level 2 charger can be installed on a 240 Volt dryer outlet to charge the car from empty to full in about seven hours. On road trips, the 2021 ID.4 can charge at speeds of up to 125 kW. That comes out to about 38 minutes to charge from 0% to 80% (adding about 200 miles of range). All electric vehicles charge slowly over 80% state of charge, so it would make sense to hop from charger to charger and unplug each time the car reaches 80%. Stopping every 200 miles or so to charge and take a travel break would work well for most drivers.

Volkswagen recently teased increases to both range and charging speed for the upcoming 2022 ID.4. Charging speeds will likely be increased to either 150 or 175 kW. That would save drivers several minutes at each charging stop. Over-the-air updates might even push these upgrades to 2021 models already on the road. They also confirmed the continuation of one of the Volkswagen ID.4’s most compelling selling points: three years of free fast-charging at Electrify America stations. All current ID.4 owners have this incentive with unlimited mileage, but there are some indications that mileage limits may apply for 2022 buyers. Still, three years of free fast-charging could save drivers a lot of money.

How Does It Stack Up to the Competition?

In simplest terms, think of the 2022 Volkswagen ID.4 as a sleek, futuristic and minimalist Tiguan. Interior dimensions are similar, but the ID.4 packs more power. Just about the only thing the Tiguan does better is go more miles between refueling stops. Still, electricity is far more affordable than gas. When charging isn’t free, a full ‘tank’ of electrons rarely costs more than $20.

As of December 2021, the two direct competitors to the ID.4 are the Ford Mustang Mach-E and the Tesla Model Y. The electric crossover family is about to grow rapidly in 2022 as more automakers bring models to market. Volkswagen says it’s not trying to compete with Tesla It’s an unavoidable comparison to make when the Model Y is the top-selling electric SUV in America. It’s true that the Tesla has more power, more range and better tech, but it’s also nearly twice the price of the ID.4 once federal EV incentives are taken into consideration. If EV incentives get revised in 2022, the two could end up being closer in overall price. 

The Ford Mustang Mach-E has more in common with the Model Y than it does with the ID.4. The handling, size and range of the Mach-E are about midway between the ID.4 and Model Y. The Mach-E is a sporty crossover, and can be a downright track beast in the GT Performance trim. It features a tad more interior space, plus a frunk for added cargo room. The 15.5” infotainment screen is more akin to Tesla, and so is the firmness of the ride. Reviewers note that fit and finish is far better (as it should be) with the ID.4 and Mustang Mach-E than you’re likely to find on any Model Y. As Elon Musk likes to say, making cars is hard.

In 2022, the Subaru Solterra will make an entry into the market. This AWD electric crossover will compete with the all-wheel drive versions of the ID.4. From Subaru’s recent unveiling at the 2021 LA Auto Show, we can already see that the ID.4 has the upperhand. The ID.4 has more power, more interior room and far more range than the estimates Subaru has shared. We won’t know how the prices of the two compare for a few more months.

CarEdge’s Take On the 2022 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2022 Volkswagen ID.4 is a great fit for most driving lifestyles. It’s a particularly compelling car in the base Pro trim with rear-wheel drive. Volkswagen’s EVs still qualify for the $7500 federal EV tax credit in the US, which can turn the entry-level ID.4 into a $34,000 purchase. That’s an amazing value in today’s market.

A combination of high demand and the ongoing chip shortage have pushed delivery wait times out to six months or more when you order from VW’s website and arrange to pick up from your chosen dealer. Some have had luck finding an ID.4 to purchase on a dealer lot.
There’s a lot of competition on the way, and that’s something that buyers in today’s market should bear in mind. The Subaru Solterra, Nissan Ariya, Hyundai IONIQ 5 and Kia EV6 are just some of the amazing EVs arriving by the end of 2022. Nevertheless, the ID.4 is an excellent car, and 2022 updates could strengthen this EV’s appeal even further. Stay tuned for the latest EV updates here on CarEdge. Which electric crossover appeals to you?

You can now find ID.4’s and hundreds of other models for sale on our new CarEdge car listing service. Check it out and let us know what you think!

The 2022 Tesla Model 3: Updates and Pricing for the Top-Selling EV in America

by Justin Fischer | Last updated Jun 28, 2022 | Electric Vehicles, New Cars

(Updated June 2022) A recent survey says that 23% of American drivers say they’re considering an EV for their next vehicle purchase. Some are looking to save on fuel, and others are trying to reduce their carbon footprint. Many are turning to the Tesla Model 3, the most affordable Tesla available today. This sporty sedan is receiving some upgrades for the 2022 ‘model year.’ Tesla doesn’t follow the traditional model year cycle, but they’ve shared some immediate updates for their base model and long range sedans. We’ll cover how much the Model 3 costs, performance and specs, and just how long you’ll wait to take delivery in 2022.

Out With the Standard Range Plus, in With the Rear-Wheel Drive Model 3

Tesla has decided to rename the Standard Range Plus base version of the Model 3 the ‘Rear-Wheel Drive’ variant. Perhaps calling something ‘standard’ just wasn’t on-brand for the luxury automaker. This base trim has received some 2022 upgrades, most notably an increase in range from 262 miles to 272 miles on a charge with the included 18” aero wheels. If you add the 19” sport wheels, the range drops to 267 miles. Tesla has announced that it’s moving all base trims to new battery chemistry. The new lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries will allow the car to repeatedly charge to 100% without risking as much harm to the life of the battery. New battery tech could be partially responsible for the range upgrade we’re seeing.

The Rear-Wheel Drive Model 3 is powered by a single electric motor that produces 296 hp and 277 pound-feet of torque. Tesla has actually increased the 0-60 time for 2022, raising it to 5.8 seconds for the RWD trim. This software-limited acceleration could also contribute to the quoted higher range. At a Tesla Supercharger or other fast charger, its 60 kWh battery pack can accept up to 170 kW when nearly empty. In the real world, that means charging from 10-80% (adding 190 miles of range) takes about 26 minutes.

The 2022 Tesla Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive now sells for a notoriously non-negotiable $46,990, plus the $1,200 destination and doc fee. So the cheapest Tesla is now $48,190. Just a year ago, it was $38,190. 

This Interior Is For Techie Minimalists

The Model 3’s interior features are typical Tesla, and the 2022 upgrades eliminate a few differences between the Long Range and base Rear-Wheel Drive trims. RWD now comes with a heated steering wheel and heated front and rear seats (if there’s enough chips for that!). This means that reduced audio quality is the main difference that will stand out between the interiors of the two. The RWD Model 3 includes the 15 inch horizontal touchscreen that Tesla is known for. Everything from your speedometer to Netflix and arcade games can be found on there, but Tesla’s Premium Connectivity package (remote wifi) is an additional $10/month. There’s no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto though.

All Model 3 trims come with 23 cubic feet of storage, with 15 cubic feet of space in the trunk alone. The seating area includes 97 cubic feet of total passenger space, which is quite good for a mid-size sedan. And then there’s that glass roof, which creates the illusion of even more interior room, but can be a pain since there’s no retractable sunshade. Black vegan leather comes standard, and white seats can be added for $1,000. Every exterior color except white and midnight silver will set you back between $1,000 – $2,000 more. 

The All-Wheel Drive Long Range Model 3

The mid-level spec for the Model 3 is the all-wheel drive Long Range variant, which now has an MSRP of $57,990, and $59,190 with destination charges. With taxes and fees, a Model 3 Long Range will cost over $63,000 in 2022, with exact pricing depending on state sales tax.

That’s quite the hefty price tag, so what do you get for that kind of money? If range is your top concern, the Model 3 Long Range offers a solution with 358 miles of EPA-rated range, up from 353. Supreme efficiency and a 80 kWh battery pack gives the Long Range Model 3 one of the highest range ratings in today’s EV market. Electric all-wheel drive powertrains feature two motors, one powering each axle. If one motor were to ever stop working, electric all-wheel drive vehicles could continue the journey with the power of the remaining motor. Dual-motor power brings the AWD Model 3 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds. The AWD powertrain is excellent, but the 5.5 inch ground clearance will prevent most off-roading. 

The Model 3 Long Range offers a few other upgrades over the RWD version. The Long Range can accept a 250 kW charge rate, which cuts charging time from 0-80% down to 32 minutes. Premium audio supplies 14 speakers, 1 subwoofer, 2 amps, and immersive sound. LED fog lamps are included.  

The Model 3 Performance

The track-minded Model 3 Performance’s 450 horsepower and 471 lb-ft of torque propel it to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds. The extra power chops the range down to a still-respectable 315 miles. Pricing for the Model 3 Performance starts at $61,190. Tesla has not yet announced any 2022 updates for the Performance version.

Autopilot and Full Self-Driving in the 2022 Tesla Model 3 

Autopilot (essentially adaptive cruise control + lane centering) is standard with all Tesla’s. The beta version of Full Self-Driving (FSD) can be added to any Tesla for an additional $12,000. It’s important to note that FSD is far from perfect, and it requires driver attention at all times. Some early access FSD testers say that it demands even more attention than regular driving for the time being. Tesla employs cameras for its autonomous driving, whereas most automakers use some combination of radar and camera inputs. All Tesla’s receive over-the-air updates, so FSD and other tech features are subject to change.

Incentives May Return, but Don’t Bet on It

Tesla prices have increased across the board in 2021. Three factors seem to be at play that are contributing to this. First, the elephant in the room: chips. The chip shortage is affecting multiple components in electric vehicles. Tesla seems to have fared better than most with regards to semiconductor supply, but at a cost. Next, there’s demand. Following record-breaking sales in every quarter of 2021, demand continues to outpace supply. Will Tesla buyers pay $10,000 more for a Model 3? If wait times are any indication, it seems like they are. On top of demand from the ‘little guys’, Hertz just ordered at least 100,000 Model 3’s. 

Finally, there’s the likelihood of federal incentives once again applying to Tesla vehicles. It’s been years since Tesla last qualified for the $7,500 federal tax credit for EVs. Automakers are eligible until they sell 200,000 EVs, a milestone Tesla reached in 2017. With ongoing debate in congress, revisions to the EV federal tax credit are far from certain. 

The 2022 Tesla Model 3: One of the Best, but It Ain’t Cheap

For car buyers looking to go electric, the Model 3 offers a sporty, minimalist design for those hoping to avoid range anxiety. This is an EV made for road tripping. Tesla’s Supercharger network, over-the-air updates and critically-acclaimed Full Self-Driving are just some of the reasons this electric sedan has been America’s top-seller for three years. Tesla updates are one heck of a moving target, as multiple updates are transmitted to cars every year via over-the-air updates. We’ll keep you updated with what you need to know at CarEdge. The EV space is getting crowded quickly, and the competition has its sights set on Tesla. What do you think? How much longer will the Model 3 remain king of the EVs?

9 EVs Making Their Production-Ready Debut at the LA Auto Show

by Justin Fischer | Last updated Dec 7, 2021 | Electric Vehicles, New Cars

This year’s Los Angeles Auto Show features the debut of several electric vehicles to the North American market. With so many competitively priced EVs hitting the roads next year and the likelihood of expanded EV rebates or tax credits, the future is looking electric. After the cancellation of the 2020 LA Auto Show, legacy automakers and industry newcomers alike are eager to show off their latest and greatest. We’ll take a closer look at nine production-ready EVs that stand out as top contenders in this rapidly growing market. 

Nissan Ariya – arriving early 2022

CarEdge’s Take

• Quite nice for a Nissan: The aerodynamic design and next generation tech of the Ariya represents a step up for Nissan as it looks beyond the pioneering Leaf.
• Range: estimated 300 miles, TBD
• Price: $45,950 – $58,950 (not including incentives)

Nissan was an EV pioneer when it launched the Leaf back in 2011. For years, Nissan led the pack, only to fall to the likes of the Chevy Bolt and Tesla in the second half of the 2010s. So Nissan’s all-new Ariya has a lot to live up to, and it will be up against plenty of crossover competition. 

This electric crossover features futuristic design language and a suite of next-gen tech. Dual 12” screens provide the driver with Nissan’s latest infotainment and digital gauge cluster. The car is capable of receiving remote over-the-air updates to improve performance and tech, a feature popularized by Tesla. 

The interior is open and roomy, but the sloping roof design makes for just 15 to 17 cubic feet of rear cargo space, depending on whether AWD adds a rear motor. The 300 mile target range is on par with class leaders like the Model Y and Mustang Mach-E. However, charging speed is not impressive at just 130 kW, likely requiring around 35-40 minutes to charge to 80% on a road trip. But keep in mind that most EV charging is done at home overnight. 

The three front-wheel drive trims produce 238 horsepower, reaching 60 mph in 7.4 seconds. Nissan clearly thinks highly of the Ariya, as it’s priced above several competitors. The Venture+ base trim starts at $45,950 before incentives, and the premium Platinum+ offers AWD and 389 HP for $58,950. During the reservation period, Nissan only offers its e-4ORCE AWD on the top Platinum trim. 

Toyota bZ4X – arriving spring 2022

CarEdge’s take

• Toyota’s Beyond Zero debut: Toyota dominates the hybrid segment, but this late entry to the EV game is playing catch-up.
• Range: 250 miles (lower for AWD)
• Price: estimated under $40,000 (not including incentives)

In 2019, Toyota announced that it was teaming up with Subaru to develop a new electric platform that would power the two automaker’s EVs in the 2020s. Now, we get to see the fruits of their research and development. The 2023 Toyota bZ4X is the first offering from Toyota’s new Beyond Zero class of vehicles. 

This Rav4-sized compact crossover has a low roofline and polarizing exterior design, akin to a crossover version of a Prius. But there’s plenty of space with 30 cubic feet of cargo room. A big 12” screen stands out, and there’s a mix of haptic and old-school physical controls. Front-wheel drive is standard, offering up to 250 miles of range. It’s not terribly quick, with just 201 HP in FWD models.

The bZ4X arrives in spring of 2022 with an expected base price under $40,000 before incentives.

Subaru Solterra – arriving sometime in 2022

CarEdge’s Take

• All-wheel drive plus range anxiety: Subaru’s first all-electric vehicle offers outdoorsy dimensions but not enough range to stray too far from the interstate.
• Range: 220 miles
• Price: Estimated $37,000 – $45,000 (not including incentives)

Subaru’s half of the partnership with Toyota has resulted in the all-new Solterra electric compact crossover. Spoiler alert: It’s nearly identical to the Toyota bZ4X, with one unsurprising distinction. The Solterra features standard all-wheel drive and ground clearance suitable for light off-roading at 8.3”, matched only by the Volkswagen ID.4. 

Lugging around the extra weight from the second motor hurts the Solterra’s range, as it’s expected to be rated for just over 220 miles on a charge. For a 2023 model, that’s a bit disappointing, especially for an automaker that prides itself in going off the beaten path (where chargers are few and far between). 

The estimated starting price is expected to be in the mid to upper $30,000’s for the lower trims, likely reaching into the $45,000 range fully-loaded.

Kia EV6 – arriving January 2022

CarEdge’s Take

• Efficiency and charging reign supreme: The EV6 recently beat Tesla’s previous record in a race across the US from coast to coast. 
• Range: ~ 270 – 300 miles
• Price: ~$45,000 – $58,500 (not including incentives)

Kia’s first dedicated EV and companion to the popular eNiro takes the automaker’s EV game to the next level. Kia and sister company Hyundai have unveiled their new e-GMP electric platform, and the results are impressive. The EV6 is getting rave reviews in Europe where it’s already on the road, and it seems to be a serious contender for EV market share.

With range up to 300 miles and fast charging from 10 to 80% in just 18 minutes (!), the EV6 is a sign of the electric offerings to come in the mid-2020s. Don’t let the base version’s 58 kWh battery and 167 horsepower fool you; most rear-wheel drive trims come with a 77.4 kWh battery (on par with class leaders) and 225 hp. All-wheel drive brings the power: 320 hp comes standard with AWD, and the GT option launches it to a very impressive 576 hp and a 0-60 time of 3.5 seconds. 

This Kia has turned out to be a real Model Y competitor. Price options are to be determined, but the EV6 is likely to start in the mid-40s. 

Hyundai IONIQ 5 – arriving to select US markets winter 2021

CarEdge’s Take

• A retro-inspired car from the future: The evocative design of this compact crossover is sure to turn heads. It also speeds through charging sessions.
• Range: 269 – 300 miles
• Price: $40,000+ TBD (not including incentives)

Rarely does an all-new car enter the market with the novelty that the Hyundai IONIQ 5 is bringing to North America. Hyundai’s bold, futuristic yet retro design is unlike anything else on the road. It’s like science fiction made real. Hyundai says the design is partly inspired by the 1975 Hyundai Pony, South Korea’s first mass-produced car for export. 

The result is an angular and pixel-inspired Tucson-sized crossover. Although it’s the Kia EV6’s e-GMP platform sibling, they don’t share any design language. The IONIQ 5 comes in three trims. Standard rear-wheel drive produces 225 hp and a 0-60 time of 7.4 seconds. All-wheel drive brings that up to 320 hp and a zippy 0-60 of 5.2 seconds. 

Range is impressive but not exceptional. RWD variants are expected to have about 300 miles of range, and AWD offers 269 miles. Like the EV6, the 350 kW level 3 charging speed is class-leading with over 200 miles of range added in just 18 minutes. Unlike most of today’s EVs, the IONIQ 5 and EV6 are capable of bidirectional charging. This means that you can plug household appliances into the car for power in the event of a power outage or remote camping adventure. 

Hyundai still has not released pricing for the US, but if Canada’s prices are any hint, expect it to start in the mid 40s. 

Ford F-150 Lightning: available spring 2022

CarEdge’s Take

• This truck powers your home or jobsite: The F-150 Lightning serves as a back-up power source that can power an entire home for days, or power tools for hundreds of hours. It has a massive frunk too.
• Range: 230 – 300+ miles
• Price: $39,974 – $52,974 (not including incentives)

Ford’s success with the popular albeit controversially named Mustang Mach-E has shown that the top-selling automaker in America is serious about electrification. Now, Ford is electrifying its most popular segment: trucks. The F-150 has been the best-selling truck for 44 years, so it’s a bold move to introduce a new powertrain. But if nearly 200,000 preorders is any indication, the strategy is working out for Ford. 

The F-150 Lightning checks all the boxes and then some. The standard-range battery offers 230 miles of range, and the long-range battery brings it up to 300 miles. Payload is an impressive 2,000 pounds, and it can tow up to 10,000 pounds. It’s not yet clear how much range is eaten up by towing. 

The 4×4 variants powered by two separate motors add head-turning power, carrying the truck to 60 mph in the mid-4 second range. Ford’s BlueCruise driver assistance technology allows for hands-free driving on over 100,000 miles of US roads. Yet another impressive feature of the Lightning is the gigantic frunk, or front trunk, that occupies the space under the hood. 

Pricing starts at $39,974 for the commercially-focused Pro trim, but the real value and comfort features start at $52,974 for the XLT, and levels up to over $89,874 for the Platinum. Ford says that lifetime maintenance costs will be about 40% less than internal combustion equivalents, and fleet operators are taking notice. There’s a lot to love about this electric truck, and it will be interesting to see how it compares to the elusive Tesla Cybertruck and GM’s upcoming electric trucks.  

Rivian R1T: available now

CarEdge’s Take

• Built with purpose in mind: Rivian’s brand is all about making outdoor adventure sustainable. The R1T is the ultimate backcountry crew-cab from the future.
• Range: 300 – 400 miles
• Price: $67,500 – $83,000+ (not including incentives)

As of 2020, there were zero electric trucks available to North American buyers, but that’s all about to change in a big way. The next few years are going to see exploding growth in the electric truck market, with legacy automakers like Ford and GM introducing trucks alongside newcomers like Rivian and Tesla. 

Among the emerging crowd, the Rivian R1T stands out. It’s a boldly futuristic truck designed with adventure in mind. It’s less of a truck for the construction site, and more of a truck for overlanding and exploring wilderness. Backed by both Ford and Amazon, Rivian has put in over a decade of research and development into the design of its first vehicle. 

The result is a mid-size crew-cab pickup with 300 to 400 miles of range, depending on battery options. A host of driver assistance features and intuitive tech make the Rivian an excellent choice for the highway and the trail. The R1T is powered by up to 800 hp and launches to 60 mph in as little as 3.0 seconds. An adjustable air suspension lifts the ground clearance up to 14 inches in off-roading situations, while making it possible to lower the clearance significantly on the highway for better fuel economy. Towing is up to 11,000 pounds and payload capacity is 1760 pounds. 

The Rivian R1T starts at $67,500 for the Explore trim with a 300+ mile range. The Adventure package with the extended-range battery will set you back $83,000. Rivian also has a full-sized SUV in the works, and they’re beginning to fill Amazon’s order for 100,000 electric delivery vehicles. You read that right! That’s a lot of demand for a company that has delivered well under 1,000 vehicles at the time of this writing. 

Fisker Ocean – available late 2022

CarEdge’s Take

• A legendary designer’s unique EV: The sleek aesthetics of this crossover make it a rolling piece of art and an example of sustainable design.
• Range: 250 – 350 miles
• Price: $37,500 – $69,000+ (not including incentives)

Henrik Fisker’s electric ambitions got off to a rough start a decade ago. The Fisker Karma sports car sold 2,000 units before issues with the battery supplier ceased production in 2012. But Fisker is back and they mean business. The stylish Fisker Ocean compact SUV is all the rage at this year’s LA Auto Show. Mr. Fisker is a veteran designer at heart, so it’s only natural that the Ocean is a truly beautiful car. 

Starting at a competitive $37,500, the base trim offers 250 miles of range and 275 hp. The upgraded Ocean Ultra bumps up to 340 miles of range, all-wheel drive and a sporty 540 hp with a 0-60 time of 3.9 seconds. But that’s not all. For $69,000, the Ocean Extreme offers a 3.6 second 0-60 time and over 350 miles of range. Fisker is even going to offer a no-commitment lease option for just $379/month, which is basically a subscription service. 

On top of the impressive specs and pricing, the Fisker Ocean is largely made of recycled and sustainable materials, and some trims will include a rooftop solar panel. Fisker says he wants this fresh start to produce the highest quality vehicles from day one. That’s why they’ve teamed up with Austrian automaker Magna to produce the Ocean. Magna has made cars for Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Jaguar for decades, so it’s safe to say Fisker’s production is in good hands.

Lucid Air – available now

CarEdge’s Take

• What range anxiety? At 520 miles and 131 MPGe, this luxury sedan has claimed the title of Range King for the 2022 model year, a title that it stole from Tesla’s Model S.
• Range: 406 – 520 miles
• Price: $78,900 – $170,000+ (not including incentives)

This ultra-luxury sedan is pushing the frontier of EV technology, but at a luxury price point. The base Air Pure starts at $78,900, and top trims exceed $170,000. What do buyers get for that kind of money? The EPA-rated range of up to 520 miles is industry-leading, beating even the Tesla Model S. 

The Air Dream Edition Performance produces 1,111 hp and a 0-60 time of just 2.5 seconds. The interior has been described as pure luxury, with panoramic screens, an expansive glass roof and nearly silent cabin standing out to those lucky enough to get a test drive. 

Lucid is already building cars at its new plant in Arizona. Following Tesla’s example, the new automaker plans to first produce luxury vehicles before eventually offering more affordable models. An SUV is in the pipeline too. This startup is one to watch. 

The Takeaway

The 2021 Los Angeles Auto Show has been a stage for automakers to share their commitment to electrification. Beyond the production-ready EVs, several concept designs also made their debut. By 2030, industry experts estimate that at least one out of four new cars sold in America will be electric. What we’re seeing in the unveiling of 2022-2023 models is competition. And when automakers innovate and compete for your business, it’s almost always a win for the consumer.

Tesla Price Increases: $10,000 More Today Than Last Year

by Zach Shefska | Last updated Nov 19, 2021 | Electric Vehicles, New Cars

Tesla price increases used to be a somewhat infrequent and relatively innocuous occurrence. Not anymore. So far in 2021 the Model 3 has increased in price (MSRP) 23%. The Model Y is not far behind at a 20% price hike!

What’s behind the Tesla price increases? Should we expect to see more? Does this effect existing orders? Are other automakers increasing their prices this much? Let’s address this and more below!

Tesla Model 3 Price Increases

First, let’s start by simply looking at the data.

Tesla has not been shy about increases the price of their most affordable vehicle (the Model 3). Below is a table of Model 3 Standard Range Plus (SR+) base MSRP from February of 2019 to today.

Since February of 2019 there have been 18 MSRP changes for the Model 3 SR+. 3 have been price decreases, 15 have been price increases. As you can see, just in the past few months the Model 3 has increased in price by $5,000.

This may have something to do with the fact that new EV tax credits are likely to increase consumer demand in 2022.

Tesla Model Y Price Increases

Tesla’s Model Y was first available for purchase in March of 2019. Since then the most common version, the LR-AWD (long range all wheel drive) trim has seen its price increase considerably.

Similarly to the Model 3, the Model Y has seen both price decreases (2) and price increases (14). The Model Y has increased in price more than $5,000 in the past few months. This is likely due to the imminent EV tax credits that will be passed as part of the Build Back Better bill.

Are other automakers raising their prices as much as Tesla?

No! While we expect automakers to increase their base MSRPs considerably in 2022, we have yet to see any other manufacturer increase them as much as Tesla.

Toyota has come closest with their nearly 20% price increase for the newly redesigned 2022 Toyota Tundra, however that is a brand new redesign. No other automakers has increased their mid-year production models MSRP anywhere near as much as Tesla has.

Why is Tesla increasing their prices so much right now?

There are two primary factors as to why Tesla is increasing their MSRP so aggressively right now. The first relates to ongoing supply chain disruptions and the chip shortage. The second has to do with new EV tax credits that will most certainly drive an increase in Tesla demand.

The ongoing chip shortage has impacted all automakers, and Tesla has not been immune to it. While their production numbers have been healthy (especially relative to peers), Tesla has struggled to produce vehicles to their specifications. Earlier in 2021 Tesla silently began removing some features and functionality from their vehicles because of a lack of chips.

There is obviously a “supply side” issue thanks to global supply chain struggles and the chip shortage, but what about demand?

Demand for new Teslas has been healthy, and it should only increase in 2022. New EV tax credits will increase Tesla demand. Previous EV tax credits no longer apply to Tesla, however the credits that will be available in 2022 will. It makes sense that Tesla is increasing their prices right now, because when consumers get $7,500 (or more) in tax credits from the government, they’ll still feel like they’re getting a great deal.

Pair a decreasing supply with an increase in EV demand, and you can start to see why Tesla is proactively raising their prices. Not to mention there is higher inflation than prior years, and you can begin to fully comprehend why we’ve seen Tesla prices increase as much as they have.