Most Reliable EV Cars in 2024

The electric vehicle (EV) market is gradually moving from early adopters — primarily tech enthusiasts and the environmentally conscious—to early mainstream customers, who are more concerned about the performance of their vehicles for everyday commuting and errands.

In 2024, advancements in EV battery technology, software, and charging infrastructure significantly improved the reliability of many EVs. Technologies are developing to support longer driving ranges on a single battery charge and faster recharging so that drivers can confidently make long trips with minimal disruptions.

No one wants to be stuck on the road with a dead battery or have to wait hours at a charging station to power up.

As EVs are still relatively new to the market and most vehicle manufacturers are still in the process of releasing electric models, it can be hard for drivers considering making the transition from gasoline to figure out which ones are the most reliable.

This article highlights why reliability is key when selecting an EV and looks at the top 5 most reliable EVs in 2024.

Table of Contents Table of Contents

1. Key Takeaways
2. Top 5 Most Reliable Electric Cars of 2024
3. Why EV Reliability Matters
4. Factors Affecting EV Reliability
5. The Bottom Line
6. FAQs
7. References

Show Full Guide

Table of Contents

1. Key Takeaways
2. Top 5 Most Reliable Electric Cars of 2024
3. Why EV Reliability Matters
Show Full Guide
4. Factors Affecting EV Reliability
5. The Bottom Line
6. FAQs
7. References

Top 5 Most Reliable Electric Cars of 2024

So, which are the best reliable electric cars to consider this year? Which manufacturers and models offer the best driving experience with minimal downtime and electric car maintenance costs?

Hyundai Ioniq 6

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 adapts the electric platform of the popular Ioniq 5 SUV into a sedan with a stylish, sleek design.

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates the dual-motor version’s driving range at 270 miles per charge, while a single-motor version with a larger battery extends to an estimated 361 miles.

In optimal conditions, the Ioniq 6 can use direct current (DC) fast chargers to recharge the battery from 10% to 80% capacity in 18 minutes, making it one of the fastest-charging EVs on the market.

Unlike many EV models, the Ioniq 6 offers various advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) features — including autonomous cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and blind spot collision avoidance — as standard rather than optional extras.

This safety technology can help to ensure that the vehicle consistently runs in optimal condition.

The 2025 Ioniq 6’s battery pack is covered by a 10-year or 100,000-hour battery pack warranty that guarantees it will not degrade more than 70% of its original capacity during that period.

The vehicle is also covered by Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf is one of the early EV models, having been on the market since 2010. It has gained a solid reputation as a reliable, practical, and affordable EV.

Compact, with stable cornering and predictable steering, the Leaf offers a smooth ride.

It is best suited for daily commuting and short trips, as it has a shorter driving range than some of its competitors. The base Leaf model has 147hp and an EPA-estimated range of around 149 miles, while the SV Plus version has 214hp and a 212-mile estimated range. Both versions have front-wheel drive.

The Leaf can fully charge in 8 – 11 hours using a Level 2 charger or reach 80% charge in 40 for the standard model and 60 minutes for the SV Plus using a DC fast charger. The Leaf comes with Nissan Safety Shield, a suite of six standard features: automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert.

The Leaf has a longer track record of reliability, but drivers looking for a premium model may want to consider the Nissan Ariya. This newer model has a more luxurious interior, advanced technology, and a longer range compared to the Leaf.

Tesla Model 3

The Model 3 is the EV pioneer’s fourth car model, benefitting from some of the lessons and technical advancements from the prior models. The Model 3 remains a favorite among EV enthusiasts for its high performance, advanced technology and consistent reliability.

When it comes to reliable charging infrastructure, Tesla’s EVs have an edge thanks to the company’s extensive Supercharger network—one of the largest in the world. The Supercharger can top up the Model 3 to 175 miles in 15 minutes.

The 2024 Model 3 received an upgrade to 510 horsepower (hp), up from 455hp in the 2023 model. It has an adaptive suspension system and upgraded brakes. The base version comes with a single motor and rear-wheel drive (RWD), offering an EPA-estimated 272 miles of driving range, while the other variants all have two motors and all-wheel drive (AWD). The Long Range RWD version offers an estimated 363 miles of range.

The Model 3 comes standard with Tesla’s Autopilot semi-autonomous driving system and benefits from Tesla’s advanced software system, which receives frequent OTA updates to improve the vehicle’s performance over time.

One caveat, however, regarding the Tesla Model 3 reliability rating is that owners frequently report concerns about the car’s build quality—including sub-par materials, unfinished paintwork, and door handle malfunctions.

Kia EV6

The Kia EV6 compact crossover sport utility vehicle (SUV) was launched in 2021 as the automaker’s first dedicated electric model. It was first developed on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), similar to the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

The EV6 has won more than 30 awards, including several Car of the Year and Electric SUV awards, for its balance of range, performance, and reliability. It offers a stylish exterior and a tech-forward interior designed for comfort and efficiency. It also has a solid driving range and fast-charging capabilities.

Eight variants are available, ideal for drivers looking for more customization to suit their needs. The most expensive version, the GT AWD, has the shortest driving range at an EPA-estimated 218 miles. The Light RWD version has an estimated 232-mile range, while the three other RWD options offer an estimated 310 miles.

The EV6 offers high-tech content and a variety of ADAS features. Kia is committed to improving its vehicle safety and security through software updates, particularly following a spate of thefts that exploited an immobilizer flaw in its vehicle models up to 2022.

BMW i4

The BMW i4 luxury EV combines impressive driving dynamics with advanced technology and reliability, providing a powerful yet smooth driving experience. The i4 received the highest rating among premium EVs in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Electric Vehicle Experience (EVX) Ownership Study of owners’ reported experience based on 2023 and 2024 models.

There are four versions of the i4 — two core models and two M models — as well as an M Sport Package. The i4 430i Gran Coupe has 255hp, while the i4 M50 boasts up to 536hp. The dual-motor AWD M50 has an EPA-estimated driving range of 245 miles, while the all-wheel-drive xDrive40 tops out with an estimated 307-mile range.

The BMW i4 can charge up to about 30 miles of range in an hour with a Level 2 public charger and, depending on the model variant, can charge up to 75-100 miles in 10 minutes with a DC fast charger.

BMW’s public fast-charging network, one of the largest in the US with more than 100,000 charging points, bolsters its reliability. As a bonus, BMW’s ChargeForward service, available for all its EVs from the 2018 model year, pays drivers a cash incentive for charging at the optimal times when renewable energy is highest on the electricity grid.

Why EV Reliability Matters

Long-term reliability is an important consideration when purchasing any vehicle. Gasoline-fueled internal combustion engine (ICE) cars can have complex mechanical issues that require expensive repairs, especially as they age.

ICE vehicles also need regular maintenance, such as oil changes, brake pad replacements, engine tune-ups, and fluid checks.

However, they benefit from an extensive, well-established network of fueling stations, which generally makes them more convenient for long journeys.

Questions of EV reliability in 2024 are somewhat different — they have fewer internal moving parts that can go wrong or require maintenance, but battery efficiency and lifespan, charging infrastructure, and long-term savings on fuel costs are primary considerations.

Factors Affecting EV Reliability

An EV’s battery operation and the availability of fast-charging stations significantly affect its reliability. Manufacturers increasingly provide software updates that can have an effect on a vehicle’s functionality and reliability.

Battery Performance Over Time

Concerns about a battery holding enough charge to power a car for the duration of a long journey — known as “range anxiety” — have discouraged many drivers from considering buying an EV. Driving range is affected by weather conditions, driving habits, and battery age.

EV battery degradation is a major concern for drivers.

Cold weather can significantly reduce battery capacity and batteries can degrade over time, losing 1-2% of range per year.

Most EVs come with battery warranties that cover performance for 8-10 years or 100,000 miles. However, the initial cost of replacing a failed or faulty battery pack is high.

Charging Infrastructure and Speed

The availability of charging stations along a driver’s common routes, as well as the time it takes to recharge, also add a reliability factor, especially when planning long journeys.

Fast-charging capabilities reduce downtime on the road.

Level 1 chargers are the slowest and only appropriate for overnight charging at home, while Level 2 chargers can give a battery around 30 miles of driving range per hour.

Level 3 chargers, also known as DC fast chargers or superchargers, can fully charge a battery in less than an hour. Most automakers cite charging speeds from 10% to 80%, as this is the optimal range to keep the battery level within. Charging rates slow down significantly above 80% and regular charging to 100% causes stress on the battery that can reduce its lifespan.

Tesla’s Supercharger fast-charging network is the most widespread, giving Tesla owners an edge when it comes to long-distance trips.

Other automakers, such as Hyundai and BMW, are expanding their partnerships with charging network operators to improve the convenience of their drivers.

Software Updates

Unlike ICE vehicles, EVs have access to over-the-air (OTA) software updates that ensure they stay updated with the latest performance improvements, new features, and bug fixes, further enhancing their reliability without having to make physical adjustments to the vehicle or visiting a dealership.

As more manufacturers adopt OTA capabilities, software-related problems are becoming less frequent, enhancing the overall reliability of EVs.

However, drivers should be aware that software glitches can affect vehicle operation or certain features, and a lack of proper updates can also reduce reliability over time.

The Bottom Line

EVs are becoming increasingly competitive with ICE vehicles for daily commutes and long journeys. As battery technology, charging infrastructure, and software updates continue to evolve, owning an EV as a primary household car has become a viable option.

Tesla’s dominance in this space is being challenged by competitors like Hyundai, Kia, BMW, and Nissan, which offer more choices for consumers.

A reliable EV ensures minimal battery degradation over time, maintains a long driving range, and has access to a robust charging network.

This translates to fewer breakdowns, lower maintenance costs, and increased confidence in making long-distance trips. Knowing that your EV is reliable provides peace of mind and a more dependable driving experience.

FAQs