Electric vehicles are no longer just about thrilling acceleration or off-road adventures; they are rapidly becoming the go-to choice for families. The electric car market is expanding to meet the needs of family buyers who prioritize practical space, affordability, and safety, without compromising on luxury and style. The rising popularity of electric crossovers with optional third-row seating clearly indicates this shift towards family-friendly EVs. As the electric vehicle landscape evolves, more diverse and appealing family EV options are emerging. Here’s a guide to some of the Best Electric Family Cars available now, offering compelling choices for different family needs and preferences.
Best All-Around Family EV: Kia EV9
Starting MSRP: $54,900
Seats: 7
Range: 230 to 304 miles
Kia has successfully translated the winning formula of its popular Telluride SUV into the electric realm with the all-new EV9. This model stands out as an exceptional all-around electric family car. The EV9 offers a spacious cabin with three rows of usable seats, providing ample room for larger families. When it comes to cargo space, it boasts up to 43.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, making it highly practical for family life. Range is solid, varying from 270 to 304 miles depending on the chosen trim, ensuring fewer charging stops on longer journeys. Built on the E-GMP platform, the EV9 features advanced fast-charging technology, capable of delivering a significant charge in approximately 25 minutes. Beyond practicality, the Kia EV9 impresses with its award-winning design and a state-of-the-art infotainment system, creating a vehicle that is not just functional but also desirable. The EV9 transcends being merely an electric counterpart to the Telluride; it represents an upgrade in the family EV segment.
Best Family EV for Space: Rivian R1S
Starting MSRP: $75,900
Seats: 7
Range: 258 to 410 miles
For families where space is a top priority, the Rivian R1S emerges as the best electric family car. This model excels in providing generous space for both passengers and cargo. Need to transport sports equipment, luggage, or camping gear? The R1S offers a substantial 48.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row folded, expanding to an impressive 104.7 cubic feet with the frunk included. The spacious second row comfortably accommodates three car seats side-by-side, and the third row adds further seating capacity. Functionally, the Rivian R1S can effectively replace a minivan, while offering significantly more versatility and driving pleasure, especially with its off-road capabilities. For families who lead active lifestyles and require maximum space, the Rivian R1S is a top contender in the electric family car market.
Best Family EV for Safety: Tesla Model Y
Starting MSRP: $44,990
Seats: Up to 7
Range: 260 to 320 miles
When safety is paramount for your family, the Tesla Model Y is the standout best electric family car choice. Despite the headlines often dominated by Tesla’s CEO, the Model Y’s safety achievements speak volumes. It is the only midsize or larger electric SUV to have earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ designation for 2024. The Model Y achieved the highest “Good” rating in all IIHS crashworthiness and crash avoidance tests. Its safety credentials extend beyond US testing, also securing 5-star ratings from both the European NCAP and NHTSA. Notably, the Tesla Model Y boasts an exceptionally low 7.9% rollover risk, the lowest among all SUVs tested by the NHTSA, reinforcing its position as a leader in family EV safety.
Best Family EV for Road Trips: Chevrolet Silverado EV RST
Starting MSRP: $94,500
Seats: 5
Range: 440 miles
Range anxiety can be a significant concern for EV owners, especially when embarking on family road trips. The Chevrolet Silverado EV RST effectively eliminates this worry, making it the best electric family car for long journeys. In its non-fleet configuration, the Silverado EV offers an industry-leading range of up to 440 miles on a single charge, surpassed only by Lucid models. Complementing this impressive range is GM’s Ultium fast-charging technology, recognized as the fastest tested by Car and Driver in an EV. This system can add as much as 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes of charging. The Silverado EV is designed to handle extensive road trips with minimal charging stops, making it possible to cover a full day’s driving with just a single charge during a lunch break, ensuring stress-free family travel.
Best Luxury Family EV: BMW iX
Starting MSRP: $87,250
Seats: 5
Range: 288 to 324 miles
For families seeking a touch of luxury in their electric vehicle, the BMW iX stands out as the best luxury electric family car. Although it is a two-row SUV and its exterior styling may be divisive, the iX delivers on virtually every other aspect desirable in a family EV. It provides a generous 35.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, accommodating family luggage and essentials comfortably. The iX also offers a substantial range of over 300 miles on certain configurations. BMW’s renowned driving dynamics ensure a smooth and responsive ride, while the sophisticated and modern interior design helps to overshadow any exterior criticisms. The BMW iX combines luxury, performance, and practicality, making it a compelling choice for families wanting an upscale electric vehicle experience.
Best Affordable Family EV: Hyundai Ioniq 5
Starting MSRP: $41,800
Seats: 5
Range: 220 to 303 miles
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has garnered numerous accolades and is a strong contender for the title of best affordable electric family car. It’s a highly practical and versatile EV for families. Despite its hatchback form factor, the Ioniq 5 is surprisingly spacious inside, benefiting from its flat floor design to offer two roomy rows of seating and 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, suitable for family trips and daily needs. All-wheel drive is available for enhanced traction and handling in various conditions. Hyundai’s attractive lease deals can make the Ioniq 5 exceptionally affordable, increasing its appeal to budget-conscious families. Its distinctive styling ensures it stands out, offering a blend of value, practicality, and unique design in the electric family car market.
