While there are many affordable gas-powered cars that you can buy new for under $30,000, the same can’t be said for electric vehicles. There is now only a single new EV that sells for under $30k before taking into consideration any available incentives. EVs in this category deliver snappy performance and emissions-free motoring, but the lower price point does limit their battery capacities and, consequently, how far they can travel on a full charge. However, these could be the perfect vehicles for buyers who want to test the EV waters with an electric city runabout while holding on to a hybrid or ICE model for longer trips. Let’s look at the best electric cars under $30k.Vehicles are assigned a BuzzScore in relation to their direct segment competitors, and as such, vehicles in this list, while similarly scored, do not necessarily compete directly against one another. Find out more about how the BuzzScore ratings work here. These lists are continuously updated with the latest BuzzScores and vehicles as they become available. Chevrolet Bolt Before we get too far into this list of new electric cars under 30k, we want to preface it by letting you know there's technically only a single 2026 model year car that fits into this category. We'll get to that one next. However, the first EV under 30k we'll go over is just as impressive. The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt goes on sale during the 2026 calendar year, so it finds a place on our list. It comfortably earns a BuzzScore of 8.8 out of 10 due to its low starting price, respectable range, and reasonable amenities for how much it costs.The Bolt was discontinued after the 2023 model year to give Chevy some time to reflect on progress, and take customer advice to heart. Thus, the 2027 model is back and better than ever. The Bolt's new configurator is live and ready for buyers to find their perfect spec. Choices begin with two trim levels: the LT or the RS. In its most basic form, the LT starts at just $28,595 before destination and options. The RS is slightly more expensive at $31,600 prior to destination.Both models are equipped with a single motor that makes 210 horsepower to turn the front wheels. They also both have a standard 65 kWh battery and have DC fast-charging abilities with a NACS port. Similarities continue with an estimated range of 262 miles on a full charge — they can charge from 10% to 80% in about 25 minutes while using DC public fast-charging.Its interior features an 11-inch driver's display (digital gauge cluster), and an 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Multicolor ambient lighting is available, as is an HD surround-vision camera and other nice features. The LT is fine for a base model, especially for one so cheap, but increasing your budget to include the RS gives buyers standard heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and more features that are typically reserved for more luxurious models. Nissan Leaf The all-new Nissan Leaf scores well among new EVs under 30k, but it's also a great option against high-priced rivals. We enjoyed our time in the new Leaf so much, in fact, that we awarded it several titles, including Best Electric Vehicle, Best Budget Vehicle, and even our highest honor: Car of the Year. Yes, it's that good. Of course, buyers must set their expectations to reasonable levels. It earned all those awards with the knowledge of its price and segment — this is still a small, cheap Nissan. That said, it makes due with the resources allocated to it better than virtually any runners-up in each award category.Nissan offers the new Leaf in three trims; all three are only available in a front-wheel drive configuration with a single electric motor. The Leaf's lineup starts with the S+ trim at $29,990 — barely securing a spot on this list. Moving up to the SV+ increases its price to $34,230, and finally, its Platinum+ trim level tops the charts at $38,990 before destination and options. Upgrading all the way to the Leaf Platinum+ means unlocking features like a dimming glass panoramic roof, 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, a 10-speaker Bose audio system, and much more.While all three trim levels use the same single-motor setup supplied by a 75 kWh battery, they don't all have the same performance. The most basic trim actually gets the best range at 303 miles on a full charge. Moving to the SV+ and Platinum+ trims means decreasing your range to 288 miles and 259 miles, respectively. All trims make the same 214 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque, though. None of them are particularly quick. Even though electric vehicles have been known for quick sprints with instant torque, the Leaf can only reach 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds.Focusing on the base model, we can see how Nissan managed to keep it under $30k. The Leaf S+ uses black-painted steel wheels with plastic covers, a manual, 6-way adjustable driver's seat that lacks lumbar support, cloth upholstery, and plenty more cost-cutting measures. For those who only care about driving a new EV for as cheaply as possible, then we feel as though it's still worth a test drive. "The Leaf's short wheelbase made us worry it would deliver a busy ride, but it's more pleasant than we expected. There is some typical small car vibration and harshness, but that's to be anticipated from this size and price point. Opting for the smaller wheels on one of the lower trims might be the trick for improving the ride and the range, which we will discuss later. Nissan didn't make this car particularly sporty, but the low center of gravity contributes to decent road holding, and smooth but relaxed power delivery makes the Leaf feel eager to gain speed. It's a pleasant commuter that can be fun-ish when you want, and it's not too loud on the highway if you want to take a road trip."- Jared Rosenholtz, Editor-At-Large, CarBuzz Another Cheap EV Option: Hyundai Kona Electric 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric If you're willing to spend a little over $30k, you can drive off in the Hyundai Kona Electric, which starts at $32,975. The only issue with this model is that Hyundai announced there will not be a 2026 model year available. There are still plenty of 2025 units on dealer lots, though, so buyers can still give the Kona Electric a shot. It might not start at under $30k, but it's still an inexpensive electric vehicle that drives better than its price might suggest.This base Kona has a 200-mile range, a 133-hp motor, and standard features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen interface, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, blind-spot collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. If you're considering the Leaf, but don't want to drive a Nissan, we'd recommend stretching to the Kona if possible. Alternatively, if you can't find suitable new electric cars under 30k, a lightly used Kona Electric is a good option. What To Consider When Buying An EV Under $30k Here's what to consider when shopping for an EV under $30k. Pros Extremely affordable Responsive electric motor Can be fun to drive Surprisingly high levels of practicality Cons Limited driving range All-wheel-drive models aren't available at this price point Only two new EVs still available for under $30k Sources: Nissan, Chevrolet, Hyundai