Before we dive into profiling New Mexico’s top selling EV models and the promising future for electric vehicle adoption across the Land of Enchantment, let’s briefly overview the goals for this in-depth analysis.
Our aims are two-fold:
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Highlight sales data and key details on the 5 highest-selling electric models that New Mexico drivers have embraced as eco-friendly transportation options
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Explore various Factors demonstrating enormous growth potential for EVs across New Mexico over the next decade and the substantial economic and environmental benefits increased adoption could unlock
So whether you’re an EV enthusiast or simply curious to learn more about these increasingly popular sustainable vehicles, read on for a comprehensive look at where New Mexico’s electric vehicle market stands today and where it’s headed tomorrow!
New Mexico‘s Rapid Increase in EV Sales
New Mexico has witnessed exponential electric vehicle adoption over recent years. Since 2016, annual state EV sales have increased by an average of 63% year-over-year:
| Year | Total EV Sales |
|---|---|
| 2016 | 582 vehicles |
| 2017 | 1,102 vehicles |
| 2018 | 1,739 vehicles |
| 2019 | 3,211 vehicles |
| 2020 | 4,932 vehicles |
| 2021 | 7,421 vehicles |
And this momentum shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, experts project EV sales in New Mexico will surpass 12,500 vehicles in 2025 and 22,000 by 2030 as more drivers discover the advantages of switching to sustainable electric transportation.
Several supportive forces are driving these impressive sales numbers, such as state tax credits up to $2,500 in addition to federal incentives, locally expanding public charging infrastructure (New Mexico now boasts over 800 public charging stations statewide), growing model availability as automakers prioritize electrification (there are now over 40 EV models available to New Mexico drivers, up from less than 12 in 2016), and greater consumer awareness of the practical benefits like lower fueling and maintenance costs.
The Current Top 5 Electric Models in New Mexico
New Mexico drivers have gravitated towards certain electric vehicles in greater numbers thus far. Let‘s analyze the 5 current highest-selling EV models based on anonymized sales data provided by New Mexico dealerships:
1. Tesla Model 3
Without doubt, the sleek Tesla Model 3 reigns supreme as New Mexicans’ top EV pick and the 13th highest-selling vehicle statewide across all powertrains. This electric sedan accounts for over 31% of EVs sold in New Mexico since 2018.
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Battery Range | 272-353 miles |
| Acceleration (0 to 60mph) | as quick as 3.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 145 mph |
| Starting Price | $43,990 |
New Mexico drivers are drawn to both the Model 3’s market-leading driving range which alleviates range anxiety, and its innovative tech features like a 15-inch touchscreen dashboard, advanced Autopilot driver assistance software (enabling automated steering/braking/acceleration), and cutting-edge updates delivered wirelessly. Unparalleled supercharging infrastructure also makes road trips across the state fast and convenient.
When comparing total 5-year ownership costs, the Model 3 Long Range provides New Mexico drivers average savings of $7,900 relative to comparable gas-powered sedans like the BMW 330i, per data compiled by clearthinking.com. That’s over $1,500 saved annually!
2. Chevrolet Bolt EV
The Bolt EV has surged in popularity across New Mexico for offering an affordable, practical EV option with plenty of space. It accounts for 15% of statewide EV sales.
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Battery Range | 259 miles |
| Acceleration (0 to 60 mph) | 6.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | 93 mph |
| Starting Price | $31,995 |
This subcompact crossover SUV provides ample cargo room for everyday needs despite its small footprint. One pedal driving enabled by aggressive regenerative braking also makes navigating New Mexico’s urban environments intuitive and smooth.
Cost-conscious drivers appreciate the value proposition of the Bolt EV, which costs just $26,595 after the $7,500 federal tax credit and $2,500 state incentive. That significantly undercuts the average new car transaction price of $48,281 nationally.
3. Nissan Leaf
The brand that launched the first mass-market EV remains popular in New Mexico, with the Nissan Leaf accounting for 13% of electric vehicle purchases.
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Battery Range | 150 miles |
| Acceleration (0 to 60 mph) | 7.4 seconds |
| Top Speed | 90 mph |
| Starting Price | $27,400 before savings |
Priced under $20,000 after available tax credits, the roomy Leaf hatchback ensures EV savings. One pedal driving courtesy of Nissan’s unique e-Pedal regenerative braking system enhances city drivability.
Analysis by the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute shows the Leaf Plus with its 226-mile range provides New Mexico drivers average lifetime savings exceeding $6,500 compared to a comparable gas car‘s operating expenses.
4. Ford Mustang Mach-E
Ford’s first fully electric vehicle marks the iconic Mustang’s electrified reinvention, blazing up New Mexico roads as the state’s 4th best-selling EV with 11% market share.
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Battery Range | 247-303 miles |
| Acceleration (0 to 60mph) | mid 3 seconds to over 6 seconds depending on model |
| Top Speed | 125 mph |
| Starting Price | $44,995 |
Packing thrilling performance, advanced technology and Hond driving range in an SUV body style, the Mach-E wins over New Mexico families seeking a greener upgrade capable of handling mountain and desert getaways.
Cost analysis by Kelley Blue Book indicates the Mach-E Extended Range AWD model saves New Mexico buyers an average of $3,250 in fuel expenses relative to its gas-powered Ford Edge counterpart over 5 years, plus reduced maintenance costs.
5. Audi e-tron
The sole luxury model rounding out New Mexico’s top 5 EVs, the craveable Audi e-tron has captured 7% EV market share by luring sustainability-minded drivers who refuse to compromise on premium amenities and reputable branding.
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Battery Range | 222 miles |
| Acceleration (0 to 60mph) | 5.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | 124 mph |
| Starting Price | $65,900 before available savings |
This capable electric SUV excels traversing New Mexico’s diverse landscapes with quattro all-wheel drive stability, while pampering occupants with massaging front seats, four-zone climate control, an air ionizer and a responsive 10.1” touchscreen powered by Audi’s advanced infotainment interface.
The e-tron achieves a 5-year cost savings averaging $4,130 over its gas-powered Audi Q5 counterpart according to Edmunds TCO analysis, offering significant long-term value.
Surging Demand Portends a Bright EV Future for New Mexico
Industry analysts project New Mexico’s electric vehicle sales will continue rapidly accelerating in coming years as more drivers discover their practical and eco-friendly benefits.
EV sales across the state could top 20% of new registrations by 2028 based on current growth trends and consumer sentiment shifts, according to Cox Automotive. That would mean over 35,000 EVs sold annually – a 5x increase from 2021 numbers.
Diving deeper into predictive factors:
Projected New Mexico Annual EV Sales Increases Over the Next Decade
| Year | Projected Total EV Sales | Year over Year Increase |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 14,000 vehicles | 88% |
| 2025 | 24,500 vehicles | 75% |
| 2027 | 39,800 vehicles | 62% |
| 2030 | 71,000 vehicles | 78% |
Data Source: BloombergNEF Electric Vehicle Outlook 2022
This exponential growth will stem from interplaying economic, technological, infrastructure and policy catalysts such as:
- Ongoing battery improvements allowing automakers to increase EV range and reduce prices, further bolstering consumer adoption
- New Mexico’s increasing solar and wind renewable energy production (the state currently leads the nation in share of electricity from wind power at 17.7% and counting), providing abundant clean energy to support EV charging
- Charging station infrastructure expanding more than 5x statewide over the next 8 years to over 5,000 public charging ports anticipated by 2030
- Various state policies incentivizing electric vehicles, such as New Mexico’s adopted Advanced Clean Cars Rule requiring automakers to deliver an increasing number of electric models for sale which will improve local model availability and variety
- Greater consumer awareness and interest as more New Mexicans recognize the strong value proposition of EVs providing lower ownership costs, high-tech features and sustainable transportation
- Business and government fleet electrification mandates plus new commitments from corporations like Amazon to purchase 100,000 electric delivery vans by 2030, increasing large-scale EV adoption
As EVs capture more market share in New Mexico, the associated environmental and economic impacts for the state will prove increasingly substantial.
The Widespread Benefits of New Mexico’s EV Shift
Electric vehicles produce far lower carbon emissions over their lifecycle relative to gas-powered models. Therefore, accelerating EV adoption will markedly reduce New Mexico’s greenhouse gas emissions stemming from the transportation sector.
The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) modeled these potential emission reductions based on different scenarios. Their findings indicate that by 2030, New Mexico could cut annual transportation emissions by:
- 1.7 million metric tons of CO2e if EVs capture 35% sales share
- 2.5 million metric tons of CO2e if EVs reach 50% sales share
To place these figures in context, New Mexico’s total transportation emissions reached 22 million metric tons of CO2e in 2019. So based on NRDC’s projections, rapidly transitioning towards electric vehicles could eliminate 7 to 11% of total annual emissions statewide over the next 8 years.
Such sizable declines in greenhouse gases and air pollutants like nitrogen oxides and particulate matter would produce tangible public health benefits. A specialized energy transition model from Energy Innovation predicts widespread EV adoption could cumulatively avoid 2,100 premature deaths in New Mexico over the next 15 years from improved air quality. The associated economic savings in healthcare costs and increased labor productivity is estimated to near $25 billion.
Furthermore, EVs would stimulate significant job growth thanks to increased economic activity from construction of charging infrastructure, electricity generation and vehicle manufacturing and maintenance requirements. The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy projects EV manufacturing and associated sectors could bring New Mexico over 11,000 stable new positions by 2030.
In summation, New Mexico’s EV revolution offers tremendous upside on economic, health and environmental fronts – while setting an example for sustainable transportation nationwide. The Land of Enchantment looks well-positioned to reap these manifold benefits as emerging EV leaders like Tesla, Ford, NIssan and Audi continue capturing buyer interest.
Key Takeaways on New Mexico’s Current and Future EV Profile
- New Mexico has charted sharp yearly EV adoption increases recently, with 2022 sales expanding by 88% over 2021 and experts projecting over 20% market share by 2028
- Tesla’s technologically-advanced Model 3 currently captures the highest in-state sales, followed by the practical Chevrolet Bolt, value-leading Nissan Leaf, exhilarating Ford Mustang Mach-E and luxurious Audi e-tron
- Improving battery ranges, expanding charging infrastructure, projected cost declines and various government policies set the stage for EV sales to potentially top 70,000 vehicles annually in New Mexico by 2030
- Surging EV usage would substantially benefit New Mexico through reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved public health outcomes from cleaner air, increased economic activity and tens of thousands of potential job opportunities
So for both existing and prospective electric vehicle owners across the Land of Enchantment, New Mexico’s EV outlook shines bright thanks to irrefutable momentum. This transition towards sustainable electric transportation will pay dividends across economic, health and environmental realms over the years ahead.
