Before buying any electric vehicle, almost all motorists are interested in knowing the model’s maximum range, with some of the latest choices capable of more than 400 miles per charge. Whilst this helps drivers to know just how far they will be able to travel before being forced to stop and charge up, there is another key consideration that buyers should make before getting behind the wheel of an electric car: efficiency.
Much like knowing how many miles per gallon a petrol or diesel model gets, the efficiency of an EV is based on the size of the battery and the range it can achieve. According to data published by Autocar, the most efficient EV on sale is the Vauxhall Corsa Electric, which can achieve 5.1 miles per kilowatt-hour (mpkWh). The all-electric version of one of the UK’s favourite superminis, the Corsa is known for being good value for money and surprisingly comfortable.
An update in 2024 helped to boost the hatchback’s efficiency, with Vauxhall now using a 52kWh battery to achieve a 251-mile range, plus adding a new front end with the company’s ‘vizor’ grille.
Another particularly efficient electric model with enough room for all the family is the Citroen e-C4, which is capable of achieving 4.8mpkWh when the 54kWh battery pack is fitted.
A five-door liftback that is also available as a mild hybrid, the e-C4 offers buyers striking looks, a very reasonable 380-litre boot, and a maximum range of 257 miles per charge.
The family-sized Citroen is also good value for money, with prices starting at £27,360 – about £1,000 less than the entry-level Nissan Leaf and more than £2,000 under the Kia Niro’s starting price.
Finally, the Renault 5 E-Tech is another good choice for drivers who want to prioritise efficiency without sacrificing good looks, with the retro supermini also achieving 4.8mpkWh.
Despite only going on sale at the start of the year, the Renault 5 E-Tech has already received awards, including the highly prestigious European Car of the Year 2025. This is largely due to its attractive styling, which pays tribute to the original Renault 5, built from 1972 to 1984.
However, in addition to its trendy appearance and fun driving style, the new 5 can also achieve 252 miles with the larger battery fitted – making it surprisingly practical for the odd long-distance road trip.