Electric cars with the best and worst real ranges – and what they will cost you per mile

ELECTRIC motors are becoming more popular on UK roads, as drivers try to reduce fuel costs and carbon emissions.

But it’s difficult to know if these cars will run out of battery at the most inconvenient time.

An investigation by WhatCar has revealed how far some electric motors can go without needing a charge.

Driving experts put each car through its paces by completely draining the battery and then recharging it to a full capacity.

Using a set of strict conditions, the cars were then driven on a test track to find out how many miles it could travel before requiring a charge.

These are the most and least reliable electric motors currently on the market.

Hyundai Kona Electric 64kWh – real range 259 miles

The Hyundai Kona is the stand-out choice if you’re looking for a reliable and efficient electric motor.

The stylish SUV is capable of travelling 259 miles on a single charge, making it the best performing electric motor on the market.

Drivers looking to make the change from a diesel or petrol motor will have no trouble getting use to this motor.

Jaguar I-Pace – real range 253 miles

The Jaguar I-PACE is an excellent option if you’re looking for an electric car with plenty of style.

It might not be the cheapest choice, but you’ll get plenty out of its battery with an 253-mile range

You’ll even be able to completely fill up the battery in just 85 minutes using 50kW chargers installed across the UK.

Kia E-Niro – real range 253 miles

Like the Kona, the Kia E-Niro has earned high praise for its efficiency and ability to last the distance.

Its 253-mile range and spacey interior make the perfect combination for families looking to hit the road over the holidays.

And with a full charge only costing £8.74, or £0.035 per mile, the E-Niro is ideal for drivers on a budget.

Tesla Model S – real range 204 miles

The Tesla Model S has turned heads ever since it arrived in 2014.

Drivers are often blown away by the Tesla’s sporty performance, but its excellent range is one of its best features.

It doesn’t come cheap though, with a price tag of £73,505.

Renault Zoe – real range 146 miles

It might not go as far as other electric models, but the Renault Zoe provides excellent bang for your buck.

With an affordable £18,420 price tag, the Zoe will last 146 miles on a single battery.

Motorists also have the option of leasing their battery from the manufacturer, making it even more of a bargain to buy.

Nissan Leaf – real range 128 miles

The Nissan Leaf is one of the most popular electric cars on the market and it’s easy to see why.

The Leaf is an excellent option for drivers who plan on commuting large distances thanks to its range of 128 miles per charge.

The reliable family car is also cheap to run, with it only costing £0.042 per mile.

BMW I3 94AH – real range 121 miles

The BMW i3 has drawn praise for its innovative design and surprisingly quick engine.

You can take comfort in knowing you’ll have 121 miles of range before needing to charge as well.

Despite its relatively high price tag, the BMW i3 is ideal if you’re looking for a spacious and well thought out vehicle.

Volkswagen e-Golf – real range 117 miles

Based on the popular non-electric model, the e-Golf is an excellent choice for drivers looking for a practical hatchback.

The simple motor is cheap to run and has a relatively modest price tag of £29,230.

But drivers won’t be able to go far in this motor, as the battery will only lasts 117 miles per charge.

Hyundai Ioniq Electric – real range 117 miles

Unlike the reliable Hyundai Kona, the Ioniq has a limited range of 117 miles on one charge.

But with a low purchase price of £26,745, the Ioniq is a suitable choice for families who only drive in the city.

And you’ll be able to save even more money, as it only costs £0.030 per mile.

Smart Forfour EQ – real range 57 miles

It is one of the cheapest electric options on the market, but the Smart ForFour lacks a lot when it comes to reliability.

With an 80bhp engine, the Smart ForFour can only last 57 miles between charges – the worst of any car on this list.

It is cheap to charge though, only costing £0.042 per mile.