Electric cars come in all shapes and sizes, and the focus on battery-powered models is sharper than ever. For many drivers, though, one thing is also under consideration: price. 

Many drivers consider electric cars to be expensive. For instance, the Vauxhall Corsa has long been a blue-collar hero, thanks to its low cost, competent dynamics and decent practicality, but the cheapest electric version costs a substantial £32,445. That’s £12,820 more than an entry-level petrol Corsa.

Vauxhall isn’t alone in this, because many manufacturers have spied an opportunity to target well-heeled early adopters who are willing to pay a premium (and a large slice of profit to the car maker) to have the latest all-singing, all-dancing digitally dense EV on their drive.

Yet if EVs are to become commonplace, there need to be some options that aren’t going to break the bank.

And that's starting to happen. Car brands are now introducing more affordable options on a far more frequent basis. 

Brands including Dacia, Citroën, Mazda and MG are all leaving their mark, having launched sub-£30,000 electric cars in the past couple of years – and prices are improving further, with new options coming in at under £25,000 and even under £20,000. 

But it’s important to do your research. The main criticism of battery-powered cars has previously been their range, with very few offering the sort of stamina that would make them a true replacement for a combustion-engined counterpart.

That said, the charging infrastructure is constantly improving and customer expectations have shifted. And there are now plenty of lower-priced models to choose from.

The cheapest electric cars