The Best Alternatives To Tesla

Tesla is arguably one of the biggest names in the electric vehicle (EV) world.

Teslas are known for being sleek, fast, easy to charge and well-designed. They changed the perception of EVs from boring eco-cars to luxury automobiles.

Why Are Teslas So Popular?

Tesla was one of the first companies to make EVs sleek and cool. The company used a design-led ethos to help them appeal to the mass car market.

They are also popular because of their charging network, which allows Tesla users to charge up in multiple places. This added layer of convenience is a huge benefit, especially to those on long drives.

Aside from that, Tesla has also pioneered:

• Long-distance battery efficiency
• Energy storage
• Advanced software
• Automated driving technology
• Low maintenance costs

However, recently, more people have been looking for Tesla alternatives, not just because of the price tag, but because of its controversial owner too….

In fact, a survey found that 60% of car buyers now say Musk’s reputation actively puts them off buying a Tesla.

The good news? It definitely isn’t the only option. In fact, most mainstream car companies now have their own EVs on the market.

If you are looking for some EV alternatives, then you’ve come to the right place. Let’s explore them…

BMW

BMW, one of the most famous car companies in the world, has launched its own range of EVs. The company has a choice of models from i sedans to wagons and SUVs – making them perfect for a variety of audiences.

With many embodying BMWs classic designs and charge times of less than 40 minutes, they are a great alternative to Teslas.

In fact, their offering is so good that in January 2025, BMW sold 2,795 battery electric vehicles, more than double Tesla’s 1,277 registrations, a 60% drop. (BMW Blog)

Polestar

Polestar is a Swedish car company that was acquired by Volvo in 2015. Their model, the Polestar 2, has regularly been pitted against the Tesla Model 3.

Whilst Polestar’s model is around $10,00 more than the Model 3, it also comes with a sleek design and a strong performance.

Stellantis

Stellantis, a company hailing from The Netherlands, has a range of EVs that they offer under brands like Jeep, Ram, Chrysler and others.

Whilst Tesla focuses on a single brand, Stellantis uses its sub-brands to create alternatives, allowing them to appeal to broader audiences.

NIO

NIO is a Chinese EV company that has become one of Tesla’s biggest competitors. It’s known for using battery-swapping technology instead of charging stations, making it a more convenient alternative.

When it comes to their EVs, the Model Y has regularly been pitted against Tesla, though whether it is any better remains to be seen.

Porsche

Porsche, another big name in the car industry launched their electric line, to create a premium line of EVs.

Their Taycan model is one of the fastest-charging EVs in the world and is designed to feel like a sports car. Though the price tag is almost double that of the Tesla, it certainly gives a luxury feel to all that drive it.

BYD (Build Your Dreams)

BYD is China’s EV giant and a huge competitor to Tesla. Their cars come with high performance batteries, which last longer than Tesla’s but for a fraction of the price.

Already dominating the Chinese EV market, BYD’s models are compact, high performing and lower cost.

Kia

Kia has a huge range of electric vehicles that embody the company’s practical ethos. Their EV9 model is one of the only 7 seater EVs on the market, directly competing with the Tesla Model X, but for half the price.

Though it is a chunkier model, it’s perfect for families who are looking for reliable EVs, without the Tesla price tag.

Ford

Ford is slowly becoming one of the biggest EV players in the US. Their model, the Ford Mustang Mach-E was one of the top 3 selling EVs in the market – especially as it provides a premium experience without needing to pay Tesla Prices.

In general, Ford has been known to undercut Tesla specifically on prices, providing people with more affordable, but still premium feeling cars.

Lucid Motors

Lucid Motors are a car company that create EVs in the US. Specialising in cars with high range, they are particularly good for long-distance drives. For example, the Lucid Air Grand Touring offers up to 512 miles of range.

Lucid also offer luxury interiors like massaging chairs for added comfort, making them a great competitor to Tesla.

Rivian

Rivian is like Tesla, but for people who love the outdoors. The R1T pickup and R1S SUV are built for long-distance adventures, with huge batteries, great range and a design perfect for driving off-road.

The company is positioned as an alternative to the Tesla Cybertruck, though it still comes with a relatively high price tag.