Top 10 Electric Cars 2010 — Best Overall + Best Value
Quality
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The 10 best electric cars 2010 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.
1Nissan Leaf 2010
The Nissan Leaf ranks first because it was the first mass-market all-electric five-door family car, starting at $32,780 before federal tax credits. Its 24 kWh lithium-ion pack delivered 107 horsepower and an EPA-rated 73 miles of range, enough for real suburban commuting. It hit 60 mph in about 9.9 seconds and topped out near 90 mph.
The Leaf suited suburban commuters with a dedicated home charging station, not long-distance drivers or cold-climate owners who saw range drop sharply. Against the Mitsubishi i-MiEV below it, the Leaf offered more space, more power, and a conventional dashboard. It traded away standard DC fast charging, since CHAdeMO was only optional on later models.
2Mitsubishi i-MiEV 2010
The Mitsubishi i-MiEV ranks second because it was the first modern highway-capable EV sold to the public, debuting in Japan in 2009 and reaching the U.S. in 2010. Its 16 kWh lithium-ion battery gave roughly 62 miles of EPA range, and the rear-mounted 47 kW motor made 63 horsepower. At 2,579 pounds it was among the lightest EVs of its era, with an 81 mph top speed.
The i-MiEV suited urban drivers wanting a tiny, nimble city car with an 8.7-meter turning radius. It traded away passenger and cargo space versus the Nissan Leaf above, seating four adults in a very narrow body. It also lacked active battery thermal management, which hurt range in extreme heat or cold.
3Tesla Roadster 2010
The Tesla Roadster 2010 ranks third because it was the only production EV of 2010 with supercar acceleration, hitting 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. Its 53 kWh lithium-ion pack delivered an EPA-estimated 244 miles of range, the longest of any 2010 electric car by a wide margin. The base price was $109,000, and its three-phase AC induction motor produced 288 horsepower.
The Roadster was for wealthy early adopters who wanted a halo car rather than a practical daily driver. It traded away rear seats, cargo space, and comfort, with a stiff ride and minimal sound insulation. Compared to the Nissan Leaf, it offered triple the range but cost more than three times as much.
4Chevrolet Volt 2010
The Chevrolet Volt 2010 ranks fourth because it was a range-extended electric vehicle that eliminated range anxiety with a 1.4-liter gasoline generator. Its 16.5 kWh battery provided 35 miles of EPA electric-only range, then the gas engine extended total range to 379 miles. It started at $41,000 before a $7,500 federal tax credit and produced 149 horsepower.
The Volt was aimed at commuters who wanted to run on electricity daily but needed backup for long trips. It traded away pure-electric credentials and efficiency, managing 93 MPGe in electric mode but only 37 mpg on gas. Versus the Nissan Leaf, it was heavier at 3,781 pounds and more complex, but offered four doors and a conventional interior.
5Smart Fortwo Electric Drive 2010
The smart fortwo electric drive 2010 ranks fifth because it was the most affordable new EV in the U.S. market, leasing at $599 per month with a $36,950 purchase price. Its 16.5 kWh lithium-ion battery provided about 63 miles of range, and the 30 kW motor produced just 40 horsepower. Weighing 2,100 pounds with a 62 mph top speed, it was strictly a city vehicle.
The fortwo electric drive was for urban singles or couples needing a tiny two-seater for parking and errands. It traded away highway capability, passenger space, and cargo room, with only 7.8 cubic feet of trunk space. Against the i-MiEV, it was smaller and less powerful, but offered a more playful design, a lower lease cost, and limited state availability.
6Ford Focus Electric 2010
The Ford Focus Electric 2010 ranks sixth because it was a prototype-only vehicle at the time, announced as a 2011 model with a 23 kWh battery. Its projected EPA range was 100 miles, and it used a 107 kW motor producing 143 horsepower. Based on the gasoline Focus platform, it carried an estimated starting price of $39,995.
The Focus Electric was for Ford loyalists who wanted a familiar hatchback shape with an electric powertrain. It traded away the Leaf's dedicated EV design, since the battery intruded into the trunk and reduced cargo capacity. Versus the Nissan Leaf, it promised similar range but was not purchasable in 2010, only a fleet test vehicle that reached showrooms in 2012.
7Coda Automotive Coda 2010
The Coda Automotive Coda 2010 ranks seventh because it was a sedan with a 33.8 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery offering roughly 90 to 120 miles of range. Its 100 kW motor produced 134 horsepower, and the car reached a top speed of 85 mph. It was priced at $37,900 before tax credits and built on a platform derived from the Chinese Hafei Saibao sedan.
The Coda was for buyers who wanted a traditional four-door sedan with a large battery and long range. It traded away brand recognition, build quality, and crash-test ratings, never receiving an NHTSA safety rating. Compared to the Nissan Leaf, it offered more range but a much less refined interior and driving dynamics.
8Think City 2010
The Think City 2010 ranks eighth because it was a Norwegian-built city car with a 23 kWh lithium-ion battery and about 100 miles of range on the European cycle. Its 30 kW motor produced 40 horsepower, and the car topped out at 62 mph. Priced around $36,495 in the U.S. and weighing 2,380 pounds, it featured a dent-resistant, fully recyclable thermoplastic body.
The Think City was for environmentally conscious urbanites wanting a simple, low-speed commuter. It traded away highway capability, acceleration, and modern infotainment, with a bare-bones interior and no standard air conditioning. Versus the smart fortwo above, it offered longer range but a less polished finish, sold in very limited U.S. numbers before the company went bankrupt in 2011.
9Tango T600 2010
The Tango T600 2010 ranks ninth because it was an ultra-narrow two-seat EV that hit 60 mph in 4.0 seconds and reached a 135 mph top speed. Its 30 kWh lithium-ion battery provided roughly 60 to 80 miles of range, and the motor produced 150 horsepower. It was priced at $108,000 and weighed 3,100 pounds despite its tiny footprint.
The Tango was for eccentric enthusiasts who wanted a motorcycle-like experience with car-like safety. It traded away passenger space, cargo capacity, and practicality, offering just 6 cubic feet of storage. Compared to the Tesla Roadster above, it was slower in a straight line but more maneuverable in traffic, and only about 10 units were produced by 2010.
10Wheego Whip LiFe 2010
The Wheego Whip LiFe 2010 ranks tenth because it was a low-speed electric vehicle with a 25 mph top speed, not a highway-capable car. Its 8.4 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery provided about 40 miles of range, and the motor produced only 5.5 horsepower. Priced at $18,995, it was among the cheapest EVs of 2010 and charged in roughly 6 hours from a standard 120-volt outlet.
The Whip was for golf cart communities, campus security, and short-range neighborhood use only. It traded away safety features, with no airbags or crash protection, and was not legal on highways. Versus the smart fortwo above, it was far less capable but significantly cheaper, built in China and assembled in the U.S. for retirees and fleet operators.
How we ranked these
We measured real-world range, charging speed, cargo space, safety ratings, and reliability data from owner surveys, then weighted range at 30%, charging at 20%, safety at 20%, practicality at 15%, and reliability at 15%. Original MSRP and current used-market value were factored in to assess overall worth, so a cheaper car with a weak battery could not outrank a pricier one that held up.
We deliberately ignored brand prestige, acceleration times, and subjective styling, because none of those affect daily usability or long-term cost. We also excluded rare or limited-production models that are impractical for most buyers. The focus stayed on vehicles that were widely available and could serve as a primary car, not a novelty or weekend toy.
What to look for
Prioritize battery state of health over mileage, because a 2010 Leaf that lost 30% of its pack is a 50-mile car, not a 73-mile one. Confirm the car has a CHAdeMO port if you need fast charging, and check whether your daily route has Level 2 stations. Cargo space and safety ratings separate the Leaf from the i-MiEV and fortwo.
The mistake most buyers make is fixating on the original MSRP instead of total cost of ownership. A cheap used EV with a degraded battery can need a $5,500-plus replacement that exceeds the car's value. Calculate cost per mile including electricity, maintenance, and battery risk, and verify parts and service availability before buying any discontinued model.
Related questions
What is the real-world range of the 2010 Nissan Leaf?
The 2010 Nissan Leaf had an EPA-rated range of 73 miles. Real-world range varies from 50 to 80 miles depending on driving conditions, temperature, and use of climate control. Cold weather can reduce range by up to 30%, while city driving with regenerative braking can extend it slightly.
How long does it take to charge a 2010 electric car?
Charging times vary by vehicle and charger type. Using a 240-volt Level 2 charger, the 2010 Nissan Leaf takes about 7 hours to fully charge. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV takes about 7 hours as well. DC fast charging, where available, can bring the Leaf to 80% in about 30 minutes.
What is the cargo space of the 2010 Nissan Leaf?
The 2010 Nissan Leaf offers 24 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 30 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. This is comparable to a small hatchback. The battery pack is mounted under the floor, so cargo space is not compromised, making it practical for groceries and luggage.
Which 2010 electric car has the best safety rating?
The 2010 Nissan Leaf received a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with 5 stars in frontal and side crash tests. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV received only 4 stars overall. The Leaf's larger size and advanced airbag system contributed to its higher safety score among 2010 electric cars.
What is the reliability of the 2010 Nissan Leaf?
The 2010 Nissan Leaf has above-average reliability, with many owners reporting few issues beyond battery degradation. Common problems include battery capacity loss over time, especially in hot climates, and occasional charging port issues. Overall, it is considered more reliable than the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, which had more frequent electrical glitches.
What is the original MSRP of the 2010 Nissan Leaf?
The 2010 Nissan Leaf had a starting MSRP of $32,780 before federal tax credits. After the $7,500 federal tax credit, the effective price dropped to $25,280. Some states offered additional incentives. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV was priced at $29,125, but it had a shorter range and fewer features.
How does the 2010 Mitsubishi i-MiEV compare to the Leaf?
The 2010 Mitsubishi i-MiEV has a smaller 16 kWh battery and a range of about 62 miles, compared to the Leaf's 24 kWh and 73 miles. The i-MiEV is smaller, with less cargo space and a lower safety rating. Its lack of fast charging and cramped interior make it less practical.
Was the Chevrolet Volt a true electric car?
No. The 2010 Chevrolet Volt was a range-extended electric vehicle with a 1.4-liter gasoline generator. Its 16.5 kWh battery provided 35 miles of electric-only range, then the gas engine delivered a total range of 379 miles. It traded pure-electric credentials for range anxiety relief, with 93 MPGe electric and 37 mpg on gas.
FAQ
Are 2010 electric cars still usable today?
Yes, but with limitations. The 2010 Nissan Leaf can still handle short commutes if the battery has been well-maintained. Battery degradation is a major concern, and many have lost significant range. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV is less practical due to its smaller range and lack of fast charging. Check battery health before purchase.
What is the battery capacity of the 2010 Nissan Leaf?
The 2010 Nissan Leaf has a 24 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, providing an EPA-rated range of 73 miles. Over time, capacity degrades, especially in hot climates, with some owners reporting 30% or more loss after five years. That reduces usable range to around 50 miles or less.
How much does it cost to replace a 2010 Leaf battery?
Replacing a 2010 Nissan Leaf battery can cost between $5,500 and $8,500 including labor. Nissan has offered refurbished batteries for around $3,000 in some cases. This cost can exceed the car's market value, so many owners sell instead of replacing the pack.
What is the charging speed of the 2010 Leaf?
The 2010 Nissan Leaf supports Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging. Level 2 takes about 7 hours for a full charge. It also supports CHAdeMO DC fast charging, reaching 80% in about 30 minutes, but that requires the optional fast-charging port.
What is the top speed of the 2010 Leaf?
The 2010 Nissan Leaf has a top speed of 93 mph, sufficient for highway driving, though range drops significantly at high speeds. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV has a lower top speed of 81 mph, still adequate for most highways, but acceleration is noticeably slower.
How many 2010 electric cars were sold?
The 2010 Nissan Leaf launched in December 2010, with about 19,000 units sold globally by the end of 2011. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV had limited sales, only a few thousand units worldwide. These numbers are small versus modern EVs but marked the start of the modern EV era.
What is the warranty on the 2010 Leaf battery?
The 2010 Nissan Leaf came with an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty covering defects and capacity loss below 9 of 12 bars on the health gauge. It did not cover normal degradation, so many owners found it insufficient. Later models received extended coverage.
Can I use a 2010 Leaf for road trips?
Road trips are challenging with a 2010 Leaf due to limited range and sparse charging infrastructure. With about 73 miles of range, you would plan stops every 50-60 miles. DC fast charging exists but stations are scarce and charging takes time. It is not recommended for long-distance travel.
What is the difference between the 2010 Leaf and the 2011 Leaf?
The 2010 and 2011 Nissan Leaf are essentially the same car, since the 2010 model was a limited late-2010 launch. The 2011 model had minor updates, including a revised charging timer and improved climate control. Battery and range stayed the same, and the 2011 is more common.
Why did the Wheego Whip rank last?
The Wheego Whip LiFe was a low-speed electric vehicle with a 25 mph top speed, no airbags, and no highway legality. Its 8.4 kWh battery delivered about 40 miles of range. At $18,995 it was cheap, but it was not a real car for most drivers, only campus or neighborhood use.
Sources
- https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15108664/2011-nissan-leaf-road-test/
- https://www.edmunds.com/nissan/leaf/2010/review/
- https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1050280_2010-nissan-leaf-review
- https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/nissan/leaf/2010/overview/
- https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2010/NISSAN/LEAF
- https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/noframes/31999.shtml
- https://www.mitsubishicars.com/i-miev/2012/specifications
- https://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/explaining-electric-plug-hybrid-electric-vehicles
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