The best electric cars in Malta for 2020

The global electric vehicle market is experiencing a huge surge and experts estimate that by 2025 it will surpass €508 million. In Europe, the demand for passenger cars running on electricity continues its upward trend and more drivers than ever before want to invest in powerful vehicles with a low carbon footprint. If a few years ago Tesla seemed to be the only

option for eco-conscious drivers, now the market is becoming more diverse and caters to more lifestyles and budgets.

If you live in Malta, you’re probably no stranger to driving on small, steep roads and fitting into narrow parking spots. Size is actually a common concern for many European drivers who live in cities with old towns centres and cobblestone streets, so here are a few electric cars that balance practicality with performance.

BMW i3

According to the guys at Top Gear, the BMW i3 is the best small premium EV right now and a simple glance at the list of specs is enough to understand why. This high-roof hatchback is fun to drive around town and has a unique design that will definitely turn heads. The interior looks amazing as well, featuring upscale elements and plenty of infotainment options. The BMW i3 has an all-electric powertrain and lithium-ion high-voltage battery with a capacity of 94Ah. In lab results, it had a range of 299 kilometres so you can expect less in real-life conditions. However, this car does come with an optional range-extending gasoline engine so if you go on long road trips, this should have you covered.

Renault Zoe

Advertised as a five-door, 100% electric supermini car, the new Renault Zoe is one of the best electric vehicles for sale in Malta and the whole of Europe thanks to its practical design and high autonomy. It even won the Best Small Electric Car 2020 award at the annual "What Car?". Awards, so if you’ve been thinking of going all-electric, this is a good option. The Renault Zoe has a driving range of up to 294 kilometres and you can get a 120-kilometre driving range with just a one-hour charge.

2020 Volkswagen e-Golf

If you already appreciate the handling and practicality of the much-loved Volkswagen Golf, then the transition to the 2020 Volkswagen e-Golf will be seamless. Considering the popularity of Golf vehicles, this could become one of the most coveted cars for sale in Malta. Although it doesn’t have the driving range of its competitors, nor their fancy infotainment systems, the Volkswagen e-Golf makes up in cargo space. If you’re looking for a car that drives well on narrow European roads, but you have a family and need more room, this one offers a great balance between the two.

MINI Electric

Retailing at a similar price with the Renault Zoe, the MINI Electric isn’t exactly cheap, but the range of 270 kilometres makes it worth the price. Besides, if you love the iconic design of the classic MINI, you’ll definitely want to have the electric version in your life. Ever since it was announced, the MINI Electric generated a lot of buzz both in Malta and its homeland UK, so we won’t be surprised if it ends up becoming one of the best-selling electric cars in 2020.