What are the best large electric cars?

In the 2010s, many of the first popular mainstream electric vehicles (EVs) came in the form of more compact hatchbacks or sedans – think the Nissan Leaf or Toyota Prius. Fast forward to today, however, and the full spectrum of vehicles is now represented in electric form – from diminutive city cars and mid-sized crossovers to extra-size pick-ups and SUVs.

With people the world over becoming ever more conscious of sustainability, our transportation infrastructure is heading the same way. This includes the automobile industry, where all our most familiar vehicle types are getting the electric infusion and taking us towards a battery-powered driving life – and this now includes larger EVs.

In this article we’ll delve into larger EVs from top manufacturers, giving you everything you need to know if you’re looking at an electric vehicle on the larger side of life.

What are the best large electric cars in 2023?

In the grand scheme of things, the modern electric vehicle is still in its early stages. There’s a lot of information to take in, and the industry is rapidly changing. If you’re an enthusiast of electric cars, and like larger vehicles, this guide is for you. Keen to understand whether there’s an electric pick-up on the market? Want to know just how big EVs can get? Let’s explore some prominent models of larger electric cars.

GMC Hummer EV

The legendary Hummer needs no introduction, but it’s not a vehicle you’d first associate with low-emissions driving. As EV technology improves, it’s being applied to an ever-wider range of vehicles, and the Hummer is now on that list.

This model comes in two varieties, the GMC Hummer EV SUV and the GMC Hummer EV pickup. Despite their rugged reputation, these are more befitting of the electric driving world and have sleek interiors and high-resolution infotainment screens, giving a luxurious feel.

However, that all-purpose DNA is still there: specially engineered 35-inch tires and both front and rear suspension, as well as off-road handling, add a level of toughness for conquering tricky terrain and a level of ride comfort even when off the beaten track.

If you’re wondering how big the Hummer EV is, the length of the vehicle is 216.8 inches for the Hummer EV Pickup with the height being 79.1 inches. The Hummer EV SUV is 206.7 inches/196.8 inches in length and 77.8 inches in height.

The EV comes in three trims: EV2, EV2X and EV3X. Features for the models are as follows:

• Ultium Batteries, with up to 350KW/800V DC fast charging.
• 800V FC fast public charging. The Edition 1 Pickup sees charging up to 100 miles in 10 minutes.
• Up to 350+ mile range on the pickup.
• Up to 300+ mile range on the SUV.

BMW iX

German engineering at its finest. With 523hp and acceleration from 0 to 62mph in 4.6 seconds, you’re getting a true performance powerhouse.  

Added to this is a forward-thinking, slick shape, blending smooth surfaces with striking components. 22-inch Air Performance wheels help the vehicle move across all road types, contrasted by slim twin headlights and rear lights – slender by BMW standards. Integrated electric door openers emphasize the thoughtful design embedded throughout.

For EV performance, the xDrive50 model offers the following:

• 62 miles home charging and on-the-move ranges
• 2h 32m Wallbox home charging based on 7.4kw
• 6h on the move high power charging
• 5h 12m flexible charging (3.7kw)
• 21h rapid charging (50kw)
• 8h 31m standard charging cable or Flexible Charger (2.3kw) on household socket
• 51h on an AC charging station
• Electric range in miles (WLTP) – up to 380
• Energy consumption mi/kWh 2.3-3.

Kia Niro EV

This offering from Korean brand Kia can cut it with the best. The interiors are spacious, there’s a purposeful blend of style, technology and smart features beneficial to drivers and passengers alike. Another element of sustainability in this vehicle is that the seats are from recycled materials. The 10.25-inch interactive display screen provides a handy infotainment set-up.

The fully electric model offers:

• 64.8 kWh lithium-ion battery
• One-speed automatic transmission
• Range of 285 miles
• 201 bhp
• 750Kg towing capacity.

Ford F-150 Lightning Pro

A classic large pickup truck with an electric makeover. It looks and feels exactly like its combustion engine counterpart – you’re getting heavy-duty performance with the 775 lb-ft torque. Enjoy the power of 462 standard-range horsepower in a smooth on-road drive. Too warm, or too cold? Keep things just right with the Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control. The 12-inch productivity screen also lets you keep connected whilst on the road. Add the comfortable seating into the mix, and you’re looking at the evolution of a legendary road presence on the tarmac. Let’s look at the features of this electric Ford:

• Two inboard motors (one for each axle)
• 98 kWh Battery capacity (Standard Range)
• 131 kWh Battery capacity (Extended Range)
• 240 miles estimated range
• Charge from 15% to 100% in 10 hours with a Ford Charge Station

Chevrolet Silverado EV

First hitting the roads in the late 1990s, the Chevrolet Silverado is an iconic pickup that now comes in EV form. Enjoy an impressive 10,000lbs of towing capacity, along with the easy access inner gate, full-width step and inner gate load stop allowing you to transport things in the back with ease. There’s also a variety of safety features to put your mind at ease when driving with the Chevy Safety Assist package. Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking and Forward Collision Alert are just some of the features that have your back. The four-wheel drive feature of the 24-inch aluminium wheels put you in complete control of the front and the back of this large vehicle. The electric features are as follows:

• 400-mile range on a full charge
• 120-volt level 1 home charging
• 240-volt level 2 home charging
• 100 miles range in 10 minutes on GM-estimated public charging spots
• The Energy Assist companion app that comes with the vehicle allows for smart battery management
• The Ultium Platform translates to optimal electric thrust, gripping torque and carbon-free emissions.

Volkswagen ID. Buzz

Coming to market in late 2023, this infusion of electric vehicle and camper van offers something different to the large EV options available. You’re looking at classic Volkswagen recreational vehicle that drives you into the future. The ID.Buzz has been designed to offer all the same wind-in-your-hair freedom of the open road with the trappings of a modern electric vehicle. Think touchscreens, air filters, USB charging ports and a rear-view camera. A sliding door – just like the original – offers ease of entry and exit – and a total length around the 15-foot mark, giving you just the right road presence. Indicative electric specs for the already-announced European model are as follows:

• 150 kW electric motor (204 PS)
• 77 kWh net energy battery content
• 258-mile charging range
• Fast charge time of 30 mins

Learn more about electric cars by reading these articles:

• Best EV SUVs
• Best EV pickups

What are you waiting for? Get on board – electric style – with an EV car hire from Hertz.