Many electric car brands fly under the radar.
It’s not just about Tesla, Nissan, or Ford anymore.
Smaller brands are making waves with unique features and some even have more affordable prices. For example, Rivian has trucks perfect for adventure lovers. Lucid Motors is pushing the envelope with luxury and performance.
Don’t miss out on learning about these lesser-known electric car manufacturers.
The list includes brands from around the world – some currently sell in the U.S., some have plans to in the future.
1. Rivian
Rivian is an American electric vehicle company founded in 2009. They currently sell in the U.S. and plan to expand internationally. Their flagship models, the R1T truck and R1S SUV, start around $70,000. Rivian focuses on adventure-ready, all-electric vehicles with impressive off-road capabilities. They also emphasize sustainability and use eco-friendly materials.
2. Lucid Motors
Lucid Motors, founded in 2007 in California, specializes in luxury electric vehicles. They currently sell primarily in the United States. Prices for their cars start around $77,400 and can exceed $169,000. Lucid is known for its high-performance and long-range capabilities. Their flagship model is the Lucid Air.
3. Fisker
Fisker Inc. is an American electric car company founded in 2007. They currently sell vehicles primarily in the U.S. and Europe. Fisker’s models, like the Ocean SUV, start around $37,499. The company focuses on sustainability and uses recycled materials. Fisker aims to produce affordable, eco-friendly electric vehicles.
4. NIO
NIO is a Chinese electric car company founded in 2014. They primarily sell in China but have expanded to Europe. NIO’s cars range from approximately $50,000 to $100,000. They offer innovative features like battery swapping. The company emphasizes premium quality and advanced technology.
They are aiming to sell in the U.S. in 2025 as part of their global expansion.
5. XPENG
XPENG is a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer founded in 2014. They currently sell cars in China and parts of Europe. They have an office in California, but are not yet selling in the U.S. XPENG’s vehicles are priced between $30,000 to $50,000. Their models include the P7 sedan and G3 SUV, known for advanced tech features.
Currently there is nothing noted about selling in the U.S., but mentions of US tariffs on Chinese EVs are causing issues with doing so.
6. Polestar
Polestar is a Swedish electric car company originally founded by Volvo and Geely. They currently sell vehicles in Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. Polestar cars are priced in the premium segment, typically ranging from $45,000 to $150,000. They focus on sustainability, innovative design, and advanced technology. Polestar offers models like the Polestar 2, a popular all-electric sedan.
7. Faraday Future
Faraday Future is an American electric car company founded in 2014. They currently focus on the U.S. market. Their flagship vehicle, the FF 91, is priced around $180,000 with some going as high as $300,000+. Faraday Future emphasizes advanced technology and luxury features. The company has faced financial challenges and production delays.
8. VinFast
VinFast is a Vietnamese electric car company. They currently sell in Vietnam, the U.S., and Europe. Their cars are priced from around $40,000 to $60,000. VinFast focuses on modern design and advanced technology.
9. Mullen Automotive
Mullen Technologies is an American electric car company founded in 2014. They primarily sell in the U.S. market. Their vehicle lineup includes the Mullen FIVE, priced around $55,000. Mullen focuses on innovative design and competitive range. They aim to expand their EV offerings and charging infrastructure.
Fuzzy Panda Research has stated that Mullen is actually passing off Chinese imports as “Made in the USA. A separate article by Hindenburg Research noted the company as one of the worst electric vehicle hustles in recent history.
10. Canoo
Canoo is an American electric vehicle startup. It was founded in 2017. The company focuses on creating versatile, modular EVs. Canoo’s vehicles are designed for both consumers and businesses. They emphasize sustainability and innovative design.
11. Zeekr
Zeekr is a premium electric vehicle brand founded by the Chinese automotive group Geely in 2021, aiming to redefine the electric mobility landscape with cutting-edge technology, innovative design, and superior performance. Focused on sustainability and smart connectivity, Zeekr offers a range of high-end, luxurious EVs that cater to the evolving needs of modern consumers, combining eco-friendly driving with advanced autonomous features and a refined user experience.
Zeekr does not currently sell in the U.S., but is considering it for the future.
12. DRAKO
Drako Motors is an American automotive manufacturer specializing in high-performance electric vehicles. Founded in 2013 by Dean Drako and Shiv Sikand, the company aims to deliver luxury electric cars with unparalleled power and driving dynamics. Their flagship model, the Drako GTE, boasts a quad-motor architecture that provides exceptional handling and a staggering 1,200 horsepower. Combining advanced technology with meticulous engineering, Drako Motors positions itself at the forefront of the electric supercar market.
13. Karma
Karma Automotive, based in Irvine, California, is known for luxury electric vehicles (EVs). Founded in 2014, the company’s flagship model is the Revero, a high-end plug-in hybrid. Karma targets the North American and European markets. Their vehicles are priced between $80,000 and $130,000, appealing to affluent customers. The company focuses on sustainability and cutting-edge technology.
14. Callum
Callum Automotives, a leading innovator in electric vehicles, launched its first model in 2022. They specialize in luxury sedans and sporty SUVs. Their EVs are currently sold in North America, Europe, and select Asian markets. Prices range from $40,000 to $75,000. Callum Automotives focuses on high-performance, eco-friendly designs, aiming to revolutionize urban and suburban commuting. The Callum Skye is one of the latest releases that will appeal to the off-road driver.
15. Lotus
Lotus Cars, a British automotive manufacturer, specializes in high-performance sports cars and racing cars. Known for their lightweight and agile design, Lotus has expanded into the electric vehicle market. There are a few models available in the U.S., but not all are street legal and their pricing comes in at about $100,000 or more. Lotus continues to innovate under the ownership of Geely, a Chinese multinational company.
These companies are working to establish themselves in the EV market, offering alternatives to more well-known brands like Tesla or traditional automakers’ electric offerings. Many of them are focusing on specific niches or innovative designs to differentiate themselves in the increasingly competitive electric vehicle industry.
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This article was originally published on greaseculture.com.
