RACV reveals the cheapest electric vehicles this year

RACV data has found the cheapest electric vehicle for 2023. Picture: ON FILE

RACV’s Annual Car Running Costs Survey has revealed that 2023’s cheapest electric vehicle to own and operate is the MG ZS Excite Standard Range RWD Wagon, taking out the honour for the second year running.

the EV affordability data captures the overall cost of ownership, including factors such as purchase price, loan repayments, insurance, charging costs, tyres, servicing, repairs and auto club membership – averaged out over five years.

Rounding out the top three most affordable electric vehicles were the GWM Ora Standard Range Hatch and the BYD Atto 3 Standard Range Wagon.

RACV Electric Vehicle Manager Liam Brady said the growing affordability of electric vehicles was making them a more attractive option for new car buyers.

“For those looking to purchase an electric vehicle as their next car, there is reason to be excited as more models enter the market and competition for your dollar increases,” Mr Brady said.

“The appeal of the MG ZS Excite electric vehicle is in its running costs. Based on an average of 15,000km driven over 12 months, an MG ZS Excite owner will pay just $1,216.56 in charging costs, compared to $1,992.96 paid by the non-electric MG3 Core owners for fuel.”

Mr Brady said that RACV offers a range of EV products and services and is an ideal partner for motorists making the transition to owning an electric vehicle.

“Whether you’re looking to charge at home, power a commercial fleet, or install chargers at a retail location, RACV’s team of experts can help,” he said.

“RACV is also supporting the expansion of EV charging networks, through our investments in leading Australian EV companies like Chargefox and JET Charge.”

The full list is as follows:

MG ZS Excite Standard Range RWD Wagon, $101.38 (charging costs per month), $1,172.76 (total monthly ownership cost)

GWM Ora Standard Range Hatch, $89.75, $1,177.32

BYD Atto 3 Standard Range Wagon, $95.00, $1,378.51

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES PHEV 2.4 Wagon, $135.36, $1,433.86

Nissan Leaf Standard Hatch, $99.13,$1,476.14

Cupra Born 5 Seat Hatch, $103.25, $1,656.89

Tesla Model 3 RWD Standard Range Sedan, $85.25, $1,663.87

Polestar 2 Single Motor Standard Range Hatch, $108.88, $1,717.03

Kia Niro S Pure Electric Wagon, $95.75, $1,804.34

Tesla Model Y RWD Wagon, $89.75, $1,897.25.