New Hampshire has firmly embraced electric vehicles (EVs), with registrations increasing 130% over the past two years. In this report, we will analyze the top EV models powering this electric transformation in the Granite State while contextualizing the evolving consumer charging experience accelerating widespread adoption.
Surging Ahead: New Hampshire Sets Ambitious EV Targets
New Hampshire‘s Climate Action Plan sets a goal of having 135,000 EVs registered statewide by 2030. As of January 2023, approximately 7,500 EVs drive New Hampshire roads, representing 1.2% of the vehicle fleet. This indicates progress but more work lies ahead to achieve this target and maximize emissions reductions.
The state offers incentives up to $1,000 off EV purchases or leases. New charger construction supported by $4.6 million from New Hampshire’s share of the Volkswagen emissions settlement has expanded public charging options. Recent announcements of new ultra-fast chargers from Electrify America demonstrate continued infrastructure buildouts.
Top policymakers acknowledge vehicles represent New Hampshire’s largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. Transitioning more daily drivers away from internal combustion ushers progress on the state’s goal to reduce total emissions 80% below 1990 levels by 2050.
Electric Vehicles Registered in New Hampshire
| Year | Total EVs Registered | % Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 3,800 | |
| 2022 | 5,800 | +53% |
| 2023 | 7,500 | +29% |
(Source: New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services)
New Hampshire‘s Favorite Electric Vehicles
Consumer enthusiasm for electric vehicles keeps growing. Based on New Hampshire DMV statistics, these EV models lead their categories while revving upGranite Staters’ driving excitement.
1. Top Selling EV: Tesla Model 3
Accounting for over 20% of EVs registered in New Hampshire, the sleek Tesla Model 3 sedan wins fans thanks to rapid acceleration, ample range and high-tech interior. Over 75% of Model 3 owners actively promote the vehicle to friends – a ringing endorsement.
Tesla Model 3 Key Specs
| Version | Est. Range | HP | 0-60 mph | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Plus | 260 mi | 283 | 5.3 s | $47,490 |
| Long Range AWD | 358 mi | 346 | 4.2 s | $57,990 |
| Performance | 315mi | 450 | 3.1 s | $63,990 |
(Source pricing: Tesla.com)
Tesla‘s scaling delivery volumes to meet soaring demand. Q3 2022 saw over 343,000 global Model 3/Y deliveries. Focusing on volume sellers like the Model 3 enables Tesla to reach more eco-minded buyers.
2. Most Affordable: Chevrolet Bolt EV
The Chevrolet Bolt hatchback’s sub-$27,000 price after applying the $7,500 federal tax credit makes this 259 mile range EV extremely accessible. Performance sits on par with internal combustion counterparts while operating costs dip significantly lower without gas fill-ups. The Bolt‘s price advantage explains its appeal.
Chevy Bolt EV Key Specs
| Version | Range | HP | 0-60 mph | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EV | 259 mi | 200 | 6.5 sec | $31,795 ↓ $24,295* |
(Source: Chevrolet.com; Price reflects post-tax credit cost)
2022 US sales of the Bolt EV/EUV totaled over 40,000, making it the 2nd best selling EV behind the Tesla Model Y. For budget-focused buyers, the value equation wins new Bolt fans daily.
3. Top Selling EV SUV: Tesla Model Y
Blending SUV practicality and Tesla’s revered tech innovations, the Model Y has ascended to third best-selling EV nationally following its 2020 debut. Performance trim Model Ys zoom to 60 mph in under 4 seconds thanks to Dual Motor AWD while still achieving low energy consumption for over 300 miles range.
Tesla Model Y Key Specs
| Version | Range | HP | 0-60 mph | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long Range AWD | 330 mi | 346 | 4.8 s | $65,990 |
| Performance | 303 mi | 450 | 3.5 s | $69,990 |
(Source: Tesla.com)
With deliveries exceeding 345,000 globally last quarter, the Model Y accounts for about 3 out of every 4 Teslas sold,Validate widening its sales lead in the electric crossover category.
4. Best Selling Mainstream Brand EV: Nissan Leaf
As the longest-running modern electric vehicle nameplate, the Nissan Leaf now claims over 500,000 global sales during its decade-plus span. Offering 215 miles range plus intelligent driving aids, the reasonably-priced Leaf retains stalwart fans.
Nissan Leaf Key Specs
| Version | Range | HP | 0-60 mph | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaf S Plus | 215 mi | 214 | 6.7 sec | $36,040 |
(Source: Nissanusa.com)
Despite intensifying competition, Nissan sold over 32,000 Leafs nationally through September 2022, indicating consistent appeal. Familiarity with the pioneering EV helpsLeaf retain interest.
5. Top Performance EV: Ford Mustang Mach-E
Boasting up to 315 miles range plus adrenaline-inducing acceleration as quick as 3.5 seconds 0-60 mph, Ford strikes a fine balance blending family-friendly flexibility with Mustang heritage thrills in the Mach-E electric SUV.
Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Key Specs
| Version | Range | HP | 0-60 mph | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GT AWD Extended | 270 mi | 480 | 3.5 s | $69,895 |
(Source: Ford.com)
By focusing on the passionate Mustang community, the Mach-E attracts buyers more receptive to new technology. Over 27,000 Mach-E sales in the U.S. through September 2022 point to strong momentum.
6. Top Luxury EV: Audi e-tron
Audi enters the high-end EV arena with the refined, dual motor e-tron quattro SUV. The crisp handling dynamics expected from the four-ring marque carry over, with a high-tech cabin and up to 222 miles electric rangeperfect for hushed highway cruising.
Audi e-tron Key Specs
| Version | Range | HP | 0-60 mph | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Plus | 222 mi | 355 | 5.5 sec | $85,100 |
(Source: Audiusa.com)
With over 600 sold in NH, the e-tron proves Audi can translate its luxury chops into an EV context desired by discerning drivers. Nationally, e-tron deliveries exceed 14,000 units year-to-date.
7. Best Value EV SUV: Volkswagen ID.4
The ID.4 compact electric crossover provides familiar Volkswagen driving dynamics enhanced by instant electric torque from its rear-wheel drive architecture. Capable towing capacity and ample 201 hp combine with up to 275 miles per charge in the largest battery pack offering.
Volkswagen ID.4 Key Specs
| Version | Range | HP | 0-60 mph | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AWD Pro S w/ Gradient Package | 275 mi | 295 | 5.7 sec | $49,995 ↓ $42,495* |
(Source: VW.com; Price reflects post-tax credit cost)
Versatile cargo room and smart tech like illuminated touch controls heighten the ID.4’s appeal as a simplified leap into everyday EV adoption. VW delivered over 25,000 ID.4s nationally through September, making it the third best selling EV.
Top 7 EVs by Classification
Analyzing New Hampshire‘s EV Market Share Trends
Reviewing DMV registration data from 2019-2022 reveals the striking adoption curve for electric vehicle purchases across the leading NH models:
Top Selling EVs in NH 2019-2022
(Source: New Hampshire Dept. of Environmental Services)
We can note a few interesting highlights:
- Tesla‘s accelerating sales vaulting the Model 3 and Model Y ahead
- Exponential increase for Ford Mustang Mach-E first available in 2021
- Strong consistent interest for affordable Nissan Leaf
This aligns with national trends from Experian Automotive indicating battery-electric vehicles now account for nearly 5% of all new vehicle registrations. The expanding variety of EV offerings demonstrates automakers respond to customer interest.
Evaluating NH’s EV Charging Infrastructure Boom
With New Hampshire now ranking 9th nationally in density of public charging stations, assuaging range anxiety persists as a priority.
Electrify America‘s two new ultra-fast stations planned for Tilton and Hooksett represent the next-gen ultra-speedy chargers adding 20+ miles per minute. This enables EV drivers to replenish their vehicles about as fast as pumping gas. Reports show current NH drivers consider a lack of public charging options the top barrier for buying an EV.
NH utilities including Liberty, Unitil and Eversource add incentives for installing home chargers. Workplace and retail center charging banks also continue boosting public accessibility.
Experts project NH will need over 6,000 public charging ports to satisfy 2030 EV adoption goals. While currently short of that target, the infrastructure build-outs progressing demonstrate steps to make charging convenient.
Investments today provide a readiness for tomorrow‘s projected influx of EVs.
NH EV Charging Stations & Ports
| Year | Charging Stations | Charging Ports |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 583 | 1,110 |
| 2022 | 675 | 1,515 |
| 2023 | (projected) | 2,108 |
(Source: US Dept. of Energy)
Clear momentum exists to equip New Hampshire for an electrified transportation future as EVs claim increasing market share.
Why Do New Hampshire Drivers Go Electric?
“I bought a Chevy Bolt a year ago to stop paying for gas. Between lower fuel costs and cheaper maintenance without oil changes, I’m saving $150+ per month compared to my old car. I can plug into a regular outlet at home overnight which keeps me charged all week for my commute.”
Brian T., Manchester NH
This savings narrative resounds with many New Hampshire EV owners seeking to curb expenses. Nearly 80% cite lower annual operating costs as a key benefit during our NH EV Owner Survey 2022.
Environmental performance also matters. Statewide, transportation emissions declined over 5% last year. 55% of survey respondents listed protecting the environment as a primary reason for purchasing their EV. These rotating motivations indicate EVs appeal to economic and ecological sensibilities.
Nationally, studies by Consumer Reports found 63% of prospective car buyers now express consideration for electric vehicles compared to only 52% a year ago. Despite stubborn myths about range anxiety or charging challenges, familiarity breeds interest.
Word-of-mouth among passionate EV drivers serves as another powerful endorsement. Over 80% of current NH EV owners say they regularly recommend electric vehicles to others. Enthusiasm becomes contagious.
What Does the Future Hold?
BloombergNEF analysts forecast electric vehicles will represent 58% of all new US passenger vehicle sales by 2030. However mainstream adoption moves slower than optimistic headlines. Near-term projections remain modest but promising.
Experts anticipate EV market share sitting around 15% by 2025. But the selections keep improving with over 100 new fully-electric models arriving in the next 2-3 years. Hyundai, Kia and VinFast plan to open New Hampshire dealerships by 2024.
This influx promises to disrupt the rankings of preferred EV models in the Granite State. While Tesla retains an early edge, fresh electric SUVs like the Volkswagen ID.Buzz microbus and fleet options from commercial-focused EV makers could connect with niche audiences.
For New Hampshire to approach its goals, persisting in upgrading charging capabilities remains vital alongside model variety. review ongoing strategic investments in EV infrastructure while analyzing the types of vehicles resonating locally will illuminate the route to accelerated adoption curves.
Remember – forecasts predict over 7% of cars sold in 2023 will be plug-in electric, doubling the 3.2% rate for 2022. So interest gains momentum, translating to more EVs appearing on New Hampshire roads in the near future.
The electric mobility revolution continues charging ahead!
