Electric cars are popular for many reasons beyond low emissions, such as lower maintenance costs, cheaper charging costs, and a smoother, quieter, and responsive driving experience. The electric vehicle (EV) market has grown exponentially, and according to Bloomberg, there will be around 26 million EVs on the road by the end of 2022, a considerable increase from 1 million in 2016.
With the surge in demand for EVs, and government legislation to fight climate change, vehicle manufactures all around the world are releasing new electric car models. But, with so many to choose from—and for many, it being the first time buying an electric car—it can be hard to know which is the best for you. This article highlights some of the most popular (or most anticipated) electric cars of 2022 and how long it takes to charge them.
This article features the following vehicles (click for quick access):
Whilst some vehicle designs can be somewhat controversial, the Polestar 2’s clean lines and simple yet beautiful design likely won’t upset anyone. Positioned as a competitor to the Tesla Model 3, the Polestar 2 offers a high-quality package with a competitive range and performance.
The Polestar 2 is available in three different model variations, each with a different battery size and driving range:
The starting price of the Polestar 2 is between £41,900 and £47,900* depending on the model variation.
*The prices were taken at the time of writing from Polestar UK.
The time it takes to charge the Polestar 2 varies based on the power output and the type of charger. We’ve calculated the charging time based on the most common charging outputs at each charging level.
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Charging level
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Charging output
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Charging times*: Standard Range (69 kWh)
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Charging times*:
Long Range (78 kWh)
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Level 1 (AC)
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2.3 kW
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33h20m
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37h40m
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Level 2 (AC)
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7.4 kW
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10h21m
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11h42m
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Level 2 (AC)
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11 kW
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6h58m
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7h52m
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Level 3 (AC)
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50 kW
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55 min
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1h02m
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Level 3 (DC)
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133 kW
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20 min
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23 min
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Level 3 (DC)
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151 kW
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-
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20 min
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*These numbers provide a calculated estimation of charging times – from 0 to 100 percent (AC) and 20 to 80 (DC) percent state of charge (SOC) – and do not reflect actual charging times or real-life situations. For a more accurate representation of (or more information on) actual charging times, please refer to the original manufacturer or certified dealerships. The results are based on an equation that uses the standard battery size and average performance of charging stations as metrics and are rounded up for readability. The highest DC charging power is the maximum power supported by the vehicle.
The Kia EV6 is the stylish new electric hatchback SUV that shares a lot in common with the excellent Hyundai IONIQ 5. Its sporty drive, great range, and impressive driver assistance features make it an attractive choice for many. And compared to its competitors, it offers some of the best value for money. It’s no surprise that it was named European Car of the Year for 2022.
The Kia EV6 is available in the UK in three different model variations, each with a 77.4 kWh battery capacity and different range:
The starting price of the Kia EV6 is between £41,695 and £52,695* depending on the model variation and the trim level.
*The prices were taken at the time of writing from Kia UK.
The time it takes to charge the Kia EV6 varies based on the power output and the type of charger. We’ve calculated the charging time based on the most common charging outputs at each charging level.
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Charging level
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Charging output
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Charging times*:
EV6 (77.4 kWh)
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Level 1 (AC)
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2.3 kW
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37h23m
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Level 2 (AC)
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7.4 kW
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11h37m
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Level 2 (AC)
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11 kW
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7h49m
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Level 3 (DC)
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50 kW
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1h01m
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Level 3 (DC)
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150 kW
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20 min
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Level 3 (DC)
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233 kW
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13 min
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*These numbers provide a calculated estimation of charging times – from 0 to 100 percent (AC) and 20 to 80 (DC) percent state of charge (SOC) – and do not reflect actual charging times or real-life situations. For a more accurate representation of (or more information on) actual charging times, please refer to the original manufacturer or certified dealerships. The results are based on an equation that uses the standard battery size and average performance of charging stations as metrics and are rounded up for readability. The highest DC charging power is the maximum power supported by the vehicle.
Mazda is joining the ranks of other vehicle manufacturers by releasing the MX-30, its first production EV. Despite its comparatively smaller battery and shorter range, the Mazda MX-30 is a family-friendly car with plenty of carrying capacity and interior space. It has a well-built interior and pays attention to detail with a careful selection of material which highlight Mazda’s commitment to minimising the MX-30’s environmental impact.
The Mazda MX-30 has a 35.5 kWh battery capacity and a range of up to 147 miles. The starting price of the Mazda MX-30 is between £28,550 and £34,350* depending on the trim level.
*The prices were taken at the time of writing from Mazda UK.
The time it takes to charge the Mazda MX-30 varies based on the power output and the type of charger. We’ve calculated the charging time based on the most common charging outputs at each charging level.
| Charging level | Charging output |
Charging times* |
| Level 1 (AC) | 2.3 kW | 17h08m |
| Level 2 (AC) | 3.7 kW | 10h39m |
| Level 2 (AC) | 6.6 kW | 5h58m |
| Level 3 (DC) | 37 kW | 38 min |
*These numbers provide a calculated estimation of charging times – from 0 to 100 percent (AC) and 20 to 80 (DC) percent state of charge (SOC) – and do not reflect actual charging times or real-life situations. For a more accurate representation of (or more information on) actual charging times, please refer to the original manufacturer or certified dealerships. The results are based on an equation that uses the standard battery size and average performance of charging stations as metrics and are rounded up for readability. The highest DC charging power is the maximum power supported by the vehicle.
Following last year’s release of the flagship EQS, Mercedes is entering the luxury electric saloon market with an electric version of its E-Class. The Mercedes EQE is packed with futuristic tech, including a large touchscreen and advanced driver assistance features. As expected, build quality is top-notch, and compared to the enormous EQS, it drives much better. Aimed at the high-end market, the Mercedes EQE is a highly compelling electric car and deserves consideration as an alternative for many Tesla buyers.
The Mercedes EQE is available in the UK in four different model variations, each with a 90.6 kW useable battery capacity and different range:
The starting price of the Mercedes EQE is between £76,450 and £88,450* depending on the model variation and the trim level.
*The prices were taken at the time of writing from Mercedes-Benz UK.
The time it takes to charge the Mercedes EQE varies based on the power output and the type of charger. We’ve calculated the charging time based on the most common charging outputs at each charging level.
| Charging level | Charging output |
Charging times* |
| Level 1 (AC) | 2.3 kW | 48h46m |
| Level 2 (AC) | 7.4 kW | 13h36m |
| Level 2 (AC) | 11 kW | 9h09m |
| Level 2 (AC) | 22 kW | 4h34m |
| Level 3 (DC) | 50 kW | 1h12m |
| Level 3 (DC) | 150 kW | 36 min |
| Level 3 (DC) | 170 kW | 21 min |
*These numbers provide a calculated estimation of charging times – from 0 to 100 percent (AC) and 20 to 80 (DC) percent state of charge (SOC) – and do not reflect actual charging times or real-life situations. For a more accurate representation of (or more information on) actual charging times, please refer to the original manufacturer or certified dealerships. The results are based on an equation that uses the standard battery size and average performance of charging stations as metrics and are rounded up for readability. The highest DC charging power is the maximum power supported by the vehicle.
Nissan is well-known for its electric cars, with the Nissan Leaf being one of the earliest and most popular EVs on the market. This year, Nissan brings a strikingly different EV with the Nissan Ariya, the company’s first electric crossover. Beyond its bold exterior, its spacious interior and large trunk make it an ideal family car, and competitively priced one too.
The Nissan Ariya is available in three different model variations, each with a different useable battery capacity and range:
The starting price of the Nissan Ariya is between £42,845 and £54,790* depending on the model variation and the trim level.
*The prices were taken at the time of writing from Nissan UK.
The time it takes to charge the Nissan Ariya varies based on the power output and the type of charger. We’ve calculated the charging time based on the most common charging outputs at each charging level.
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Charging level
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Charging output
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Charging times*:
Aryia 63 kWh
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Charging times*:
Aryia 87 kWh
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| Level 1 (AC) | 2.3 kW | 30h26m | 42h01m |
| Level 2 (AC) | 7.4 kW | 9h27m | 13h03m |
| Level 2 (AC) | 11 kW | 6h21m | 8h47m |
| Level 2 (AC) | 22 kW | 3h10m | 4h23m |
| Level 3 (DC) | 50 kW | 50 min | 1h09m |
| Level 3 (DC) | 100 kW | 25 min | 34 min |
| Level 3 (DC) | 130 kW | 19 min | 26 min |
*These numbers provide a calculated estimation of charging times – from 0 to 100 percent (AC) and 20 to 80 (DC) percent state of charge (SOC) – and do not reflect actual charging times or real-life situations. For a more accurate representation of (or more information on) actual charging times, please refer to the original manufacturer or certified dealerships. The results are based on an equation that uses the standard battery size and average performance of charging stations as metrics and are rounded up for readability. The highest DC charging power is the maximum power supported by the vehicle.
This year also marks the release of Cupra’s first electric car, the Born. Its sporty design and stylish interior are familiar features which make the Born look and feel distinctively Cupra. Underneath its looks, it shares a platform with the Volkswagen ID.3, with the same dimensions, battery, and driving performance. For anyone looking for a smaller EV, the Curpa Born is a zippy hatchback with a satisfying performance.
The Cupra Born is available in the UK in several different model variations, each with a different useable battery capacity and range:
The starting price of the Cupra Born is between £34,715 and £41,975* depending on the model variation and trim level.
*The prices were taken at the time of writing from Cupra Official UK.
The time it takes to charge the Cupra Born varies based on the power output and the type of charger. We’ve calculated the charging time based on the most common charging outputs at each charging level.
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Charging level
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Charging output
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Charging times*: Cupra Born
(58 kWh)
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Charging times*: Cupra Born
(77 kWh)
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Level 1 (AC)
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2.3 kW
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28h01m
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37h11m
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Level 2 (AC)
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7.4 kW
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8h42m
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11h33m
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Level 2 (AC)
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11 kW
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5h51m
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7h46m
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Level 3 (DC)
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50 kW
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46 min
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1h01m
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Level 3 (DC)
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130 kW
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17 min
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23 min
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Level 3 (DC)
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135 kW
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-
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22 min
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*These numbers provide a calculated estimation of charging times – from 0 to 100 percent (AC) and 20 to 80 (DC) percent state of charge (SOC) – and do not reflect actual charging times or real-life situations. For a more accurate representation of (or more information on) actual charging times, please refer to the original manufacturer or certified dealerships. The results are based on an equation that uses the standard battery size and average performance of charging stations as metrics and are rounded up for readability. The highest DC charging power is the maximum power supported by the vehicle.
We hope the list above has provided you with a good overview of some of the main new EVs for 2022. Alternatively, if you think you need something bigger, we also released a dedicated list of the best new electric SUVs of this year. Or take a look at our electric vehicle overview pages to get charging specs on any model.
If you are thinking of getting your first EV, you might be interested in our complete guide to electric car charging, which covers everything: from different charging levels, costs, range, to cables and plugs.