Top 10 Upcoming Electric Cars You Should Watch in 2026

The year 2026 is shaping up to be a tipping point for electric vehicles. We are moving past the "early adopter" phase and into an era defined by next-gen platforms (like BMW’s Neue Klasse), the arrival of ultra-luxury legacy brands (Ferrari and Bentley), and a much-needed surge in affordable entry-level models.

Here are the top 10 electric cars you should keep on your radar for 2026.

 

1. BMW i3 (Neue Klasse Sedan)

Not to be confused with the quirky hatchback of the past, the 2026 i3 is an all-electric 3 Series. It debuts BMW’s Neue Klasse architecture, promising 30% more range and 30% faster charging. It’s arguably the most important BMW in decades.

• Highlight: A "Panoramic Vision" heads-up display that spans the entire width of the windshield.

2. Rivian R2

The R2 is the "Model Y fighter" from Rivian. It shrinks the rugged, adventurous DNA of the R1S into a more compact, affordable package (starting around $45,000).

• Highlight: Unique "all-glass" drop-down rear window and fold-flat seats (including the front) for car camping.

3. Sony Honda Afeela Sedan

A joint venture between Sony and Honda, the Afeela is less of a car and more of a "moving entertainment space." It’s packed with 45 sensors, Level 2+ autonomy, and an interior dominated by ultra-wide screens. read more

• Highlight: Integration with Epic Games’ Unreal Engine for stunning 3D graphics and in-car gaming.

4. Ferrari "Elettrica" (First Ferrari EV)

The Prancing Horse officially enters the electric era in early 2026. While details are guarded, Ferrari promises an "emotional" driving experience with a unique sound signature that isn't just a fake engine noise.

• Highlight: Expected to feature four-motor torque vectoring for physics-defying handling.

5. Tesla "Model 2" (Affordable Platform)

Rumors point to 2026 as the year Tesla finally scales its "next-generation" platform. Expected to sit below the Model 3 with a price target near $25,000–$30,000, this is the car meant to bring Tesla to the masses.

• Highlight: Extreme manufacturing efficiency designed to make it the most profitable "cheap" EV.

6. Hyundai IONIQ 9

This is the "supersized" sibling to the award-winning IONIQ 5. A massive three-row SUV, it shares its platform with the Kia EV9 but focuses more on a sleek, "aerosthetic" design.

• Highlight: A massive 100kWh battery capable of 300+ miles of range and 10-to-80% charging in 20 minutes.

7. Chevrolet Bolt (The Return)

After a brief hiatus, the Bolt returns in early 2026 on GM’s Ultium platform. It aims to reclaim the title of the best-value EV in America, fixing the slow charging speeds of the previous generation.

• Highlight: One of the few EVs expected to qualify for the full federal tax credit while maintaining a low starting MSRP.

8. Polestar 5

A sleek, four-door GT that takes direct aim at the Porsche Taycan. It uses a high-bond aluminum chassis for extreme rigidity and performance.

• Highlight: A dual-motor setup aiming for nearly 884 horsepower and a rear window replaced entirely by a high-definition camera.

9. Scout Traveler (SUV) & Terra (Pickup)

Volkswagen is reviving the iconic "Scout" brand as an all-electric rugged off-roader. Designed and built in the US, these vehicles feature tactile buttons and mechanical lockers, appealing to those who find modern EVs too "gadgety."

• Highlight: Will offer an optional "Harvester" range-extender (a small gas generator) for those with major range anxiety.

10. Porsche Cayenne EV

The best-selling Porsche SUV goes electric. It will be sold alongside the gas version for a few years, but the EV will sit on the new PPE platform (shared with the Macan EV), offering 800-volt architecture.

• Highlight: Expected to set new benchmarks for SUV towing and off-road capability in the electric segment.

Comparison Table: 2026 EV Snapshot

Model	Body Style	Est. Starting Price	Key Selling Point
BMW i3	Sedan	$55,000	Next-gen tech & range
Rivian R2	SUV	$45,000	Adventure-ready design
Afeela	Sedan	$65,000	Sony entertainment integration
Hyundai IONIQ 9	3-Row SUV	$62,000	Massive interior space
Tesla "Model 2"	Compact	$28,000	Affordability & Supercharging