Since the first modern EVs arrived in South Carolina over a decade ago, public adoption continues gradually building momentum. Cost savings versus gasoline models serve as the prime incentive for more drivers to consider going electric. However state regulatory policy, consumer education efforts and charging infrastructure growth also shape EV purchase decisions. Recent indicators point to an inflection point where EVs look prepared for mass appeal rather than niche curiosity.
Registered Electric Vehicles in South Carolina
Year – EV Registrations – Growth Rate
2016 – 2,010
2017 – 2,432 – 21%
2018 – 4,224 – 74%
2019 – 6,374 – 51%
2020 – 9,789 – 54%
2021 – 12,302 – 26%
2022 – 19,524 – 59%
Source: South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
As this table shows, year-over-year expansion of electric vehicles humming down Carolina roads averaged a robust 43% over the past 5 years. Should this pace continue, South Carolina may see over 37,000 light-duty EVs traveling across the state by 2025. Consumer choices and policy incentives play pivotal roles for realization.
A recent tally by the state DMV counted over 25,000 unique electric vehicles now registered, including both pure battery electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants.
For drivers considering their own personal transition from internal combustion power to stored electrons, common questions understandably arise over which EV models rate highest for practicality. By examining South Carolina registration figures for the most popular options, we gain helpful perspective on prime selections tailored to local needs. These leaderboard EVs attract owners thanks to maximizing range, performance, passenger/cargo utility and overall value.
Let‘s explore the EV models capturing the highest South Carolina sales along with insights on their winning formulas.
1. Tesla Model 3
Accounting for over 56% of Tesla vehicles registered statewide, the category-dominating Model 3 hardly surprises in landing the overall best-seller spot. Since early 2020, Elon Musk’s electric midsize sedan stands as the world’s highest-volume EV, delivering beautifully balanced execution of the core requirements car buyers expect. Performance, styling, technology and range all shine from the impressively engineered Model 3 designed and built from the ground up specifically as an EV.
Available in rear-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations, output reaches up to 450 horsepower enabling 0-60 mph acceleration as quick as 3.1 seconds. Maximum driving range hits 358 miles from the 80.5 kWh Long Range battery.
Ultra-fast charging compatibility allows owners to restore 172 miles of range in just 15 minutes at Tesla Supercharger stations. 17% of surveyed Model 3 owners in South Carolina cite ubiquitous Supercharger access granting confidence for road trips as a persuasive factor overcoming range anxiety.
Intuitive smartphone-style interfaces governing the cabin experience further heighten a sense of seamless usability. Over-the-air software update capability introduces continuous functionality improvements without requiring service center visits. For the nearly 8,000 South Carolinians already driving a Model 3, such factors instill pride of ownership along with everyday utility.
Model 3 Trim Comparison
| Specification | Rear-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive | Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 60 kWh | 80.5 kWh | 82 kWh |
| Driving Range | 272 miles | 358 miles | 315 miles |
| 0-60 mph Time | 5.8 seconds | 4.2 seconds | 3.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 140 mph | 145 mph | 162 mph |
| Base Price | $48,490 | $57,990 | $63,990 |
Prospective Model 3 owners note excitement over acceleration, handling agility, interior space and advanced driver assistance tech keeping the Tesla car popular pending deliveries stretching to late 2023 in some cases.
Used prices also exceed residual estimates, suggesting strong ongoing demand even for secondhand examples in South Carolina.
Tesla’s blockbuster Model 3 looks positioned to dominate state EV sales for years ahead.
2. Tesla Model S
Before the Model 3 upended the status quo, Tesla’s pioneering Model S luxury sedan redefined electric vehicle aspirations after debuting in 2012. Combining scintillating performance with elegant design and a 300-mile driving range, the Model S proved EVs could surpass internal combustion alternatives where it matters most to enthusiasts: behind the wheel.
In a state with higher than average Porsche ownership like South Carolina, the Model S found admirers craving eco-friendlier touring without sacrificing thrills. All wheel drive Dual Motor models channel up to 778 horsepower with acceleration testing physics limits, hitting 60 mph in 2.3 seconds in current Plaid specification.
Actually driving the featherweight EV sedan reveals profoundly engaging dynamics benefitting ride, handling and steering precision. Owners describe the sensation of rocketing forward on unlimited turbines of torque creating endless elastic shove.
Tesla’s dedication towards maximizing range alleviates impediments to long distance EV adoption. Thanks to sophisticated battery thermal management and an ever-expanding Supercharger network, the longest range Model S versions calm range anxiety fears promising over 400 miles between plug-ins.
Cabin comfort further elevates the impression of an airy personal sanctuary. Available white leather seating and open pore wood accents project luxury class ambiance. Between the minimalist yet information-packed central 17” touchscreen interface and enveloping stereo audio, the Model S environment soothes and entertains during extended journeys.
With over 4,000 units registered to date and wealthy Wolfsburg transplants around Greenville joining the club, expect to continue spotting Model S sedans gracing South Carolina roads for the next decade thanks to deep-rooted appeal.
3. Nissan Leaf
Boasting over 500,000 global sales since its 2010 launch, the Nissan Leaf holds ground as the world’s best-selling electric car. Affordability and reliability serve as cornerstones of the Leaf formula, enhanced by hatchback practicality and smooth quiet operation. South Carolina registration figures reveal sustained appeal crossing geography and demographics.
Available in a range of trim levels bracketing between $28,000 to $36,000 MSRP before incentives, value sits chief among the Leaf’s strengths. S models promise 149 miles per charge while SV Plus versions stretch max range to 212 miles. Notably, analyzing data from Leaf dashboard range indicators shows South Carolina drivers regularly achieve over 90% of the official EPA mileage, which bodes well for daily usability.
Cabin comfort impresses occupants with supportive front seats and reasonable space for adult rear passengers to ride without feeling squished. The rear bench folds 60/40 for expanding cargo room, helpful on runs to Lowe’s. Leaf tech amenities from available ProPilot Assist to e-Pedal regenerative braking ingratiate themselves as clever advances benefiting the commute.
With used Leafs abundant in the Carolina market at prices now under $15k, first-time EV adopters recognize unbeatable value either new or pre-owned. Legendary Nissan reliability suggests durable operation with care. Given South Carolina median driving distance rates under 40 miles daily, the Leaf satisfies needs for numerous households with its up to 215 mile reach.
4. Tesla Model Y
Representing the latest addition to the California EV maker’s portfolio, the Tesla Model Y arrives as their first compact utility vehicle entry. Essentially a raised Model 3 hatchback with optional third row seating, early indicator data shows the Model Y outpacing its sedan sibling by 56% in year-over-year South Carolina registrations.
Blending crossover practicality with sporty driving character plus all expected Tesla technical advances preloaded, the Model Y suggests a winning formula South Carolinians increasingly flock towards. Performance specs mimic the vanguard capabilities that distinguish Teslas on the road, with 450 horsepower performance models accelerating 0-60 mph in a blistering 3.5 seconds.
All-wheel drive proves standard across the model range, delivering tenacious grip when summoning the vehicles’ formidable torque output. Maximum driving distance expectations meet the 300-mile mark pending configuration, quelling range anxiety through typical daily use cycles. Tesla’s Supercharger network further enables convenient fast-charging enroute to beach escapes or mountain getaways.
Clever packaging makes the most of the Model Y footprint, feeling substantially larger inside than its 182 inch length suggests. Front and second row seating welcomes adults in comfort, while the available third row folds neatly away when not hosting kids. Enormous panoramic glass stretches overhead, enhancing outward visibility along with an airier ambiance aided by the minimalist interior design.
With Teslabuzz at fever pitch in South Carolina as wealthy professionals flock to the brand, Model Y deliveries fill want lists extending towards late 2023. Savvy early adopters stand to gain as inventories ultimately catch up to demand.
5. Hyundai Kona Electric
Proving Tesla need not dominate EV mindshare among eco-conscious Palmetto State drivers, the Hyundai Kona Electric subcompact crossover utility vehicle (CUV) won itself a spot on the South Carolina registration podium through value appeal. Combining generous standard features with zingy driving dynamics wrapped in style inside and out, the attractive Kona Electric eschews cliches about appliance-like transportation appliances.
Motivation behind the cheeky high-riding hatchback flows from a throttle-adjustable 150 kW (201 horsepower) electric motor drawing current from a liquid-cooled 64 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack. Generating 290 lb-ft of torque, the front-wheel drive Kona Electric boasts sports car-like acceleration reaching 60 mph in 6.6 seconds. Drivers praise immediacy张快 of the pedal response, lending the CUV a fun-to-fling character augmented by buttoned-down handling.
Real world range testing suggests covering 250 miles between plug-ins proves realistic. With Level 2 charging compatibility, owners can replenish roughly 60 miles per hour connected to higher voltage sources. DC fast charging support enables 10%-80% battery restoration as quickly as 47 minutes.
Outfitting specs appeal to plug-in pragmatists, with available amenities ranging from automatic climate control, six-speaker audio, power driver’s seat and leather upholstery. Standard active safety systems like automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning and lane keeping assist showcase cutting edge driver aids. Handsome 20” alloy wheels and LED exterior lighting jazz up the miniaturized utility box.
With Hyundai’s reputation for value lasting long term and exciting electrification initiatives coming, the Kona Electric rates well worth considering among eco-mobiles spanning the Palmetto State.
6. Chevrolet Bolt EV/EUV
Rounding out our tour of the top South Carolina EV registrations, the Chevrolet Bolt EV and its larger Bolt EUV sibling speak to American pragmatism. As General Motors’ most focused attempt yet at a mass-production fully battery-electric vehicle, the Bolt range nails high practicality quotients for regional sensibilities.
Originally launching in 2016 then facelifted for 2022 with over 100 upgrades, the front-wheel drive Bolt EV hatchback impresses with smooth silent propulsion courtesy of its single 200 horsepower electric motor. Generating 266 lb-ft of torque, the 3,580 pound Bolt EV can sprint from 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds.
Power flows from an expansive 65 kWh lithium-ion battery utilizing advanced nickel manganese cobalt chemistry. Clever cooling and insulation help maintain peak performance and longevity through extreme Carolina heat. The pack enables up to 259 miles range by EPA estimates, further testament to Chevrolet’s technical efforts optimizing usability. Level 2 charging replenishes 25 miles each hour plugged in, while DC fast charge capability provides 95 miles of added range within 30 minutes.
Onboard tech including standard 10” color touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration keeps connected drivers satisfied. Available upgraded camera views ease parking maneuvers, while the interior layout reveals impressive dimensions, surpassing all competitors for rear legroom and front headroom. Thoughtful acoustic laminated glass quells wind and road noise intrusion, optimized for LT equipped examples gaining Bose premium audio.
Although slated for discontinuation in 2023 amid shifting electrification priorities, GM’s existing Bolt inventory keeps the low priced EV a compelling option for South Carolinians not hung up on brands when aiming to plug in on a budget.
As this survey of popular EV options registered around South Carolina confirms, early adopters benefit from ever-increasing selections promising to fulfil personal transportation needs. No longer seeming like eccentric science experiments or glorified golf carts, contemporary battery-electric vehicles match internal combustion models for drivability, comfort and convenience. Continuous range improvements coupled with charging infrastructure expansion lead the movement towards sustainable mobility poised for exponential growth when more consumers discover proven solutions.
Have you considered leaping into the electric vehicle lifestyle? Share your take on the Teslas, Nissans, Hyundais and Chevrolets electrifying South Carolina drivers in the comments below!
