10 of the cheapest EVs for under $50K

The EV market in Australia may have slowed down in 2025 but it continues to grow, and more affordable options are appearing every month. We now have a strong mix of affordable EVs to choose from, including small hatchbacks, compact SUVs, and even sporty sedans priced under $50K. This makes it easier for Australians to switch to electric cars without breaking the bank or buying a Tesla.

Models like the BYD Dolphin, and the recently introduced Hyundai Inster offer compelling choices for those seeking budget-friendly eco-conscious transportation solutions. Meanwhile the likes of the BYD Atto 3 and Chery E5 are big on space and practicality with the zero-emission driving experience.

In this guide, we explore the top 10 cheapest EVs in Australia that you can buy new, highlighting their features, pricing, and what makes them stand out in the competitive EV landscape.

Model	Price Range (Before on-road costs)
BYD Dolphin	$29,990-$36,990
GWM Ora	$34,490-$44,990
MG 4	$36,990-$49,990
Hyundai Inster	$39,000-$45,000
BYD Atto 3	$39,990-$44990
MG S5 EV	$39,990-$55,990
Geely EX5	$40,990-$44,990
Chery E5	$36,990-$40,990
BYD Seal	$46,990-$61,990
Kia EV 3	$47,600-$63,950

BYD Dolphin

The BYD Dolphin stands out as Australia’s most affordable fully electric car, without feeling like a compromise. Starting at just under $30K, it brings owning an electric vehicle within reach for a wider range of buyers. Its compact hatchback shape suits city streets, yet the cabin feels surprisingly spacious for passengers and luggage. Range varies by model, with higher-spec versions covering around 427 km and the base model still offering a respectable 340 km—more than enough for most daily trips. Inside, a rotating touchscreen pairs with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, alongside a solid set of safety features. With BYD’s long warranty, the Dolphin offers newcomers to EVs both value and reassurance.

Specifications	BYD Dolphin Essential
Battery	45 kWh
Power	70kW
Torque	180Nm
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Range (WLTP)	340km

GWM Ora

Pros	Cons
Striking retro design	Cheap interior feel
Feature-rich at this price point	Small boot space
Decent range for the price	DC fast-charging speed issues

The GWM Ora catches the eye with its retro-inspired look while offering a surprisingly well-equipped cabin for its sub-$45K price tag. A front-mounted motor delivers 126 kW and 250 Nm, giving it lively acceleration that suits city driving. Inside, dual 10.25-inch digital displays, wireless smartphone connectivity, and upmarket features make the cabin feel more upscale than the price suggests. Its compact size, quiet ride, and strong safety record—including a 5-star ANCAP rating—make it a practical choice for urban commuters. Overall, it shows how China’s new-generation EVs are carving out a competitive spot in Australia.

Specifications	GWM Ora Lux
Battery	58 kWh
Power	126kW
Torque	250Nm
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Range (WLTP)	400km

MG 4

Pros	Cons
Packs decent value across trims	Quirky cabin tech
Practical driving range	Software issues with the infotainment system
Engaged and thrilling driving feel	Cheap feel for interior materials

The MG 4 has quickly become one of Australia’s top-selling EVs, thanks to its modern styling, solid performance, and strong value. Starting from $36,990  (before on-road costs), it comes with a range of battery and drivetrain options, including the Long Range and sportier XPower variants. Depending on the configuration, the range can reach up to around 530 km, making it practical even for longer trips outside the city. Inside, the cabin feels well put together, with a clean, minimalist layout, digital displays, and a wide array of safety features. On the road, the MG 4 strikes a balance between comfort and engagement, with rear-wheel-drive dynamics adding a touch of fun. With MG’s 7-year warranty, it offers style, range, and reliability at a price that competes well with many petrol models.

Specifications	MG4 Excite 51
Battery	51 kWh
Power	125kW
Torque	250Nm
Drivetrain	Rear-wheel drive
Range (WLTP)	350km

Hyundai Inster

Pros	Cons
Practical option for the city	Poor value for money
Distinctive exterior design	Expensive ownership costs
Surprisingly spacious cabin	Poor interior materials

The Hyundai Inster marks the Korean brand’s entry into Australia’s compact EV market, with prices starting around $39,000. Styled as a small, city-friendly SUV, it uses a front-mounted motor delivering 84.5 kW and 147 Nm in the local specification. Its size and practicality make it well-suited for urban commuting, smaller families, or as a second car, while Hyundai’s extensive service network adds peace of mind. While it doesn’t match larger EVs for range or cargo space, the Inster’s compact footprint, modern interior, and sub-$40K pricing make it an appealing choice for buyers wanting an accessible entry into the EV market.

Specifications	Hyundai Inster Standard
Battery	42 kWh
Power	71kW
Torque	147Nm
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Range (WLTP)	327km

BYD Atto 3

Pros	Cons
Loaded with features as standard	Poor real-world range
Value for money option electric SUV	Dull driving experience
Iconic styling and presence	No spare tyre

The BYD Atto 3 has quickly become a popular choice among Australia’s affordable electric SUVs. Starting from $39,990, it blends sleek styling with practicality and solid performance. The cabin is well-equipped with creature comforts and tech, including a rotating touchscreen, wireless smartphone connectivity, and BYD’s latest safety features. Its roomy interior and generous boot make it well-suited to families, while a smooth ride and regenerative braking add a refined driving experience. Supported by BYD’s growing national network and long-term warranty, the Atto 3 offers one of the most well-rounded packages in the entry-level EV SUV segment.

Specifications	BYD Atto 3 Essential
Battery	50kWh
Power	150kW
Torque	310Nm
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Range (WLTP)	345km

MG S5 EV

Pros	Cons
Feature-rich car with premium interior	Range could have been better
Stunning exterior design	No front boot
Comfortable driving feel for cities	Issues with the climate control and the infotainment system

The MG ZS EV became the MG S5 EV in 2025 with a comprehensive facelift, now offering even better value than before. It provides a practical, family-friendly electric SUV, with prices ranging from around $39,990 up to about $55,990 depending on the trim. It’s powered by a 125 kW motor producing 280 Nm of torque in the Australian specification, and MG’s 7-year unlimited-kilometre warranty backs many trims. The cabin follows a traditional SUV layout, offering higher seating, a five-seat configuration, and more space than smaller city hatchbacks. While real-world range sits around 250–300 km depending on conditions, the S5 EV appeals to buyers looking for an accessible SUV form with the benefits of electric driving—lower running costs and zero tailpipe emissions. For families or households seeking a straightforward, affordable EV SUV, it represents a solid option under $50K.

Specifications	MG S5 EV Excite 49
Battery	49 kWh
Power	125kW
Torque	250Nm
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Range (WLTP)	340km

Geely EX5

Pros	Cons
Well-equipped with a comfortable interior	Harsh suspension for rough roads
Excellent range and charging	Small boot space
Strong value and performance	Unknown long-term reliability

The Geely EX5 arrives in Australia with prices starting around $40,990 for the base “Complete” trim and up to about $44,990 for the “Inspire” variant. This new mid-sized electric SUV from China features a front-wheel-drive powertrain with a WLTP range of up to roughly 430 km in the longer-range model. Inside, the cabin feels spacious, thanks to a 2,750 mm wheelbase, and includes premium-style touches which are uncommon at this price, such as full-width digital screens and upmarket cabin finish. The EX5 aims to offer a mid-size SUV experience at an entry-level EV price, appealing to buyers who want more than a compact hatch. While fast-charging speeds are modest, and Geely’s service network is still developing, the EX5 delivers strong value for those seeking an affordable, larger EV.

Specifications	Geely EX5 Complete
Battery	60 kWh
Power	160kW
Torque	320Nm
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Range (WLTP)	430km

Chery E5

Pros	Cons
Decent interior space	Relatively small boot
Great after-sales support	Poorly calibrated driver-assist tech
Practical option for everyday use	Use of cheap plastic materials for the interior

Formerly known as the Chery Omoda before Omoda became its own brand, the Chery E5 is a budget-friendly mid-size electric SUV. Prices range from around $36,990 to $40,990 (before on-road costs). It’s powered by a 155 kW motor with 288 Nm of torque (in the 2025 update) and uses an LFP “Blade” battery, offering a claimed WLTP range of about 430 km. The E5 features bold styling, a well-equipped cabin—including heated seats, ambient lighting, and advanced driver-assist systems—and a five-seat layout with 300 litres of cargo space. While it’s less familiar than some established brands, the E5 delivers strong value for buyers prioritising price and range over a premium branding or high-speed charging. Prospective owners should consider local servicing options and charging capabilities to ensure it fits long-term needs.

Specifications	Chery E5
Battery	59 kWh
Power	155kW
Torque	288Nm
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Range (WLTP)	430km

BYD Seal

Pros	Cons
Delivers a good range	Slower charging than rivals
Comfortable interior with a distinct exterior design	Issues with the warranty
Smooth driving experience	Small boot

The BYD Seal offers a sleek, performance-oriented electric sedan, starting from $46,990 (before on-road costs). It comes in several variants, including the high-performance AWD Excellence, which delivers up to 390 kW and 670 Nm. Even the base model manages around 460 km of range, while the long-range version stretches close to 520 km. The Seal’s low, aerodynamic design and premium-feel interior make it feel more expensive than it is, with features like a 15.6-inch rotating display, premium features and advanced safety systems. For drivers seeking a refined, capable EV without moving into premium pricing, the BYD Seal combines performance, comfort, and value, making it one of Australia’s most appealing electric sedans under $62K.

Specifications	BYD Seal Dynamic
Battery	61kWh
Power	150kW
Torque	310Nm
Drivetrain	Rear-wheel drive
Range (WLTP)	460km

Kia EV 3

Pros	Cons
Segment leading range figures	Complicated infotainment menu
Comfortable drive	Some interior materials have poor quality
Ample cabin and boot space	Not the sharpest handling

Another 2025 entrant to the affordable EV segment in Australia, Kia EV3 expands the brand’s electric SUV lineup with a focus on practicality and range at an accessible price point. Priced from about $47,600 (before on-road costs) for the base Air model and up to $63,950 for the GT-Line Long Range, it uses a single 150 kW/283 Nm front-mounted motor. Two battery options are available — a 58.3 kWh pack offering up to 436 km of WLTP range and an 81.4 kWh version capable of around 604 km. Features such as Kia’s i-Pedal 3.0 regenerative braking and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality enhance its everyday usability. While the EV3 delivers strong efficiency and equipment for its class, it’s currently offered only with front-wheel drive and lacks some of the higher-end features found in more expensive models.

Specifications	Kia EV 3 Air
Battery	58kWh
Power	150kW
Torque	283Nm
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Range (WLTP)	436km

Australia’s Best Budget EVs at a Glance

Whether you’re a city dweller seeking a compact vehicle or a family in need of a spacious SUV, the top 10 cheapest EVs in Australia provide a solid starting point for your electric journey. By considering factors like range, features, and pricing, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your driving needs and environmental values.

The Australian EV market has become increasingly competitive, offering consumers a variety of affordable options that cater to different needs and preferences. 

From the compact and budget-friendly BYD Dolphin to the stylish and feature-rich Hyundai Inster, there’s an EV for every lifestyle. As manufacturers continue to innovate and expand their electric offerings, prospective buyers can look forward to even more choices in the near future.