In the market for an electric vehicle? For New Jersey drivers, a few models consistently rise to the top of shopping lists. EV sales are booming in New Jersey – in 2021, over 17,000 new electric vehicles hit the road across the Garden State, nearly triple the number sold in 2019. With more options arriving every year, which EVs are proving most popular with Jersey drivers?
Based on new registration data, these five EVs lead the pack as consumer favorites:
- Tesla Model 3
- Tesla Model Y
- Audi e-tron
- Nissan LEAF
- Ford Mustang Mach-E
Below, we‘ll explore what makes each of these electric vehicles so in-demand in the New Jersey market. We‘ll look at sales stats, pricing, range, performance, charging, tech features, and driving impressions for each top EV. Let‘s dive in!
#1 – The Tesla Model 3: New Jersey‘s Electric Vehicle Sales Leader
Accounting for a massive 79% of EVs sold in New Jersey last year, the Tesla Model 3 is far and away the state‘s best-selling electric vehicle. According to Experian automotive data, over 13,800 New Jersey drivers drove home a new Tesla Model 3 in 2021. This versatile electric sedan dominates the local market.
Price: The most affordable model in Tesla‘s lineup, the rear-wheel drive Model 3 Standard Range Plus starts at $46,990. The top-tier Model 3 Performance prices out at $62,990. Federal and state incentives can reduce the purchase price by up to $9,500.
Range and Charging: Depending on the battery and drivetrain, Model 3 range reaches up to 358 miles per charge. Tesla‘s vast Supercharger network enables long-distance travel, while home charging fully replenishes the battery overnight.
Performance: Dual motor Performance models sprint from 0-60 mph in a lightning-quick 3.1 seconds – rivaling many supercars. Even entry-level Models 3 leave fossil fuel cars in the dust at 5.3 second 0-60 times.
Technology: With a 15-inch touchscreen, advanced Autopilot driver assistance features, and regular over-the-air software updates, the Model 3‘s tech is perpetually improving.
Driving Experience: Here‘s what a test drive reveals about driving the wildly popular Model 3:
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Instant torque off the line provides head-snapping acceleration. Stomp the pedal and hold on!
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Beyond straight-line speeds, the Model 3 handles winding roads with agile confidence thanks to a low center of gravity.
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The minimalist interior and large glass roof enhance outward visibility, creating an airy feel.
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Regenerative braking slows the car while feeding energy back to the battery – quickly become second nature.
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Autopilot makes highway driving more relaxing by managing speed, lane changes, and adjustments.
Blending impressive electric range, high-tech interfaces, and exhilarating performance, it‘s easy to see why the Model 3 sits atop the EV sales charts in New Jersey and beyond. For many, test driving a Model 3 sells them on going electric.
#2 – The Tesla Model Y: A Hot-Selling Electric SUV
Following closely on the heels of the Model 3, the Tesla Model Y midsize SUV marked the second best-selling EV in New Jersey last year. In 2021, New Jersey motor vehicle records show over 3,300 new Model Y registrations across the state.
Price: With a starting price of $65,990 for the Dual Motor Long Range edition, the Model Y slots in between the Model 3 and Model X SUV in Tesla‘s lineup. Full Self-Driving capability adds another $12,000.
Utility: The Model Y‘s higher ride height and hatchback design increase interior capacity, making this EV well-suited to families. Optional third-row seating expands capacity to 7.
Range: EPA-estimated range reaches up to 330 miles per charge, while fast charging regains 180+ miles in just 15 minutes.
Performance: Hitting 60 mph in as little as 3.5 seconds in Performance trim, the Model Y delivers speedy acceleration. Available 21" Überturbine wheels and lowered suspension sharpen handling.
Technology: Like all Tesla‘s, the Model Y comes loaded with high-tech features like a massive touchscreen, Autopilot advanced driver assists, and constant over-the-air software updates.
Driving Experience: Our Model Y test drive reveals:
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Quick acceleration enhances everyday driving and merges. For an SUV, speed leaves little to be desired.
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The low center of gravity delivers flatter cornering and a planted feel at speed. Tight steering adds to the sporty vibe.
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abundant leg and head room for passengers, although a high beltline reduces outward visibility somewhat.
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The glass roof floods the cabin with natural light for an airy vibe.
For New Jersey drivers needing family-friendly space paired with exhilarating EV performance, the Model Y neatly combines both in a sleek package. No wonder it trails only the Model 3 in state sales.
#3 – The Audi e-tron: Premium Electric SUV
The first fully-electric luxury SUV available in America, the Audi e-tron offers a premium EV experience with Audi flair. For discerning New Jersey drivers, this sophisticated electric SUV delivers luxury, technology, and real-world usability.
Price: Starting at $65,900, the e-tron carries a premium price tag typical of luxury marques like Audi. But with seating for 5 and plenty of upscale features, it delivers luxury value.
Range and Charging: The 95 kWh battery enables an EPA-estimated 222 miles between charges. Fast charging can restore an 80% charge in about 30 minutes.
Performance: Dual electric motors generate 402 combined horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque. This muscle propels the e-tron from 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds – quick for an SUV.
Interior: Inside the spacious cabin, heated leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, premium Bang & Olufsen audio system, and dual touchscreen displays deliver luxury.
Technology: Audi‘s sophisticated driver assistance suite includes adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, and parking autopilot. Optional virtual exterior mirrors enhance visibility.
Driving Experience: Based on an e-tron test drive, driving impressions include:
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Acceleration builds smoothly but purposefully – ideal for merging and passing. The Quattro AWD system provides added grip.
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The low center of gravity helps counteract the e-tron‘s SUV ride height through corners. Steering loads up naturally.
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Interior materials look and feel highly premium. Ambient cabin lighting creates a relaxing environment.
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Regenerative braking can bring the e-tron to a complete stop – easing pedal transitions between driving and braking.
For luxury shoppers entering the EV market, the Audi e-tron presents a compelling option – especially with incentives knocking over $10,000 off the price. The premium driving experience sells many New Jersey drivers on this upscale electric SUV.
#4 – The Nissan LEAF: New Jersey‘s Budget EV
Since its debut over a decade ago, the Nissan LEAF has remained a popular electric vehicle choice among frugal New Jersey shoppers. Offering lower prices than most rivals, the LEAF makes EV driving attainable for budget-focused buyers.
Price: The LEAF S model starts at just $27,400 MSRP, thousands below average new car pricing. Factor in incentives, and the LEAF presents an affordable EV purchase.
Range and Charging: Equipped with a 40 kWh battery, LEAF range reaches up to 149 miles per charge – not exceptional, but ample for urban use. Quick charging adds about 90 miles in 45 minutes.
Performance: Instant torque from the electric motor provides spunky acceleration from stoplights. Handling is nimble and responsive around town. Top speed reaches 90 mph.
Interior: The streamlined interior provides seating for 5 adults. Heated cloth seats and 7-inch touchscreen infotainment come standard. Available upgrades include leather seats, a Bose audio system, and ProPilot Assist.
Technology: ProPilot Assist combines adaptive cruise control and lane centering for semi-autonomous highway driving. Other available tech includes an Around View monitor, navigation, and WiFi hotspot.
Driving Experience: Our LEAF test drive revealed:
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Strong off-the-line acceleration – especially in stop and go traffic where electric torque shines.
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With a low center of gravity, the LEAF feels planted and handles adroitly around corners.
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Slowing down via regenerative braking takes acclimation at first but soon becomes second nature.
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Cabin materials skew more budget, but ample adjustment yields a comfortable driving position.
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e-Pedal drive mode allows ‘one-pedal driving‘ by melding acceleration and regenerative braking.
For cost-minded drivers in urban areas, the LEAFs combination of affordability, quality, and advanced tech make this pioneering EV a sensible choice. The LEAF shows EVs need not carry luxury price tags.
#5 – The Ford Mustang Mach-E: An Iconic EV Reborn
The exciting new Mustang Mach-E applies Ford‘s famous pony car style and performance to an innovative electric SUV. In New Jersey, this electrified Mustang quickly gained traction after first arriving in dealerships.
Price: The RWD Select model starts at $43,895 MSRP, while the AWD GT clocks in at $61,995. Federal tax credits can reduce pricing by up to $7,500 for eligible buyers.
Utility: With rear or optional all-wheel drive, up to five seats, a rear hatch, and 29 cubic feet of cargo space, the Mach-E handily serves as a practical daily driver.
Range: Depending on model, Mach-E range spans from 230 miles to 310 miles on a full charge. Fast charging can add 59 miles of range in 10 minutes.
Performance: In spirited GT models, the dual motor Mach-E accelerates from 0-60 in a sports car-like 3.5 seconds. even base models leap off the line.
Technology: The Mach-E‘s enormous 15.5 inch touchscreen and intuitive Sync 4A interface leads its tech highlights, which also include Ford Co-Pilot360+ drivers aids.
Driving Experience: Our Mach-E test drive revealed:
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Instant EV torque combines with capable handling for an athletic, engaging driving feel. The Mustang DNA shines through.
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The low ride height and large glass roof enhance outward visibility, making the Mach-E feel smaller than its size suggests.
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Crisp digital displays spanning from door-to-door create a cockpit-like environment focused on the driver.
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One-pedal driving via regenerative braking quickly starts to feel natural. The Mach-E slows smoothly when lifting off the "gas."
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Clever interior storage compartments and vast rear cargo capacity add everyday practicality.
With its iconic pony car styling, ample range for road trips, and thrilling performance, the Mustang Mach-E winning over New Jersey drivers seeking style, substance, and driving fun from their electric vehicle.
What Factors Are Driving EV Popularity in New Jersey?
Several key factors help explain the surging popularity of electric vehicles in the New Jersey market:
Improving Range and Charging Infrastructure
As EV battery ranges push past 300 miles per charge, range anxiety fades. And New Jersey‘s growing network of public DC fast charging stations makes charging en route more accessible.
Generous Purchase Incentives
Between state and federal incentives, New Jersey EV buyers can save over $10,000 in purchase discounts and tax credits – slashing upfront costs.
Rising Gas Prices
With gas prices surging over $3 per gallon on average in New Jersey, driving electric looks better and better from a fuel savings perspective.
Exciting New Models
Sleek, tech-forward EVs like the Model 3, e-tron, and Mach-E make electric mobility more enticing. More models cater to diverse buyer needs.
Environmental Benefits
For eco-conscious New Jersey residents, driving electric helps cut carbon emissions from transportation. EVs align with environmental values.
Luxury and Performance
Premium EVs like the e-tron and Tesla models bring green luxury within reach. Blazing acceleration thrills driving enthusiasts.
As the chart below illustrates, these factors will continue driving booming EV adoption in New Jersey over the next decade:
| Year | Total EVs Registered in NJ | EV % Share of NJ Auto Sales |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 91,515 | 5% |
| 2025 (projected) | 330,000 | 15% |
| 2030 (projected) | 625,000 | 35% |
As you can see, electric vehicles still represent a fraction of the over 4 million passenger vehicles registered in New Jersey today. But based on adoption trends nationally and locally, EV preference looks primed for immense growth in the Garden State over the next 10 years.
Which of These 5 EVs Is Right For You?
For New Jersey drivers considering joining the EV movement, the Tesla Model 3, Model Y, Audi e-tron, Nissan LEAF, and Ford Mustang Mach-E rank among the top options to consider.
Choosing the best electric vehicle comes down to weighing priorities like budget, body style, range needs, performance wants, tech features, and brand preference.
Our top picks based on buyer profile:
- Families – Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E
- Luxury Shoppers – Audi e-tron
- Budget Buyers – Nissan LEAF
- Tech Early Adopters – Tesla Model 3
- Outdoor Adventurers – Ford Mustang Mach-E
- Performance Fans – Tesla Model 3 Performance
Test driving the most intriguing contenders remains the best way to determine which of these popular EVs best fits your lifestyle. With expanding model diversity and improving technology, New Jersey drivers have more quality EV choices than ever.
The Road Ahead for New Jersey‘s Electric Vehicle Market
Electric vehicles already claim a sizable share of New Jersey‘s auto market – and the growth outlook looks bright. Improving EV range, performance, and choice coupled with favorable incentive policies promise accelerating adoption in the coming years.
As more New Jersey residents go electric, expect to see Model 3s, Mustang Mach-Es, e-trons, and LEAFs continue leading the transition. But increased model competition will also diversify options for EV shoppers. The EV future looks bright here in the Garden State!
