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Top 10 Electric Cars 2009 — Best Overall + Best Value

Curated by Kory White · Fractional CRO · Maryland

📖 2,842 words🗓️ Published Aug 30, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best electric cars 2009 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.

1. Tesla Roadster 2009

The Tesla Roadster ranks first because it was the only 2009 electric car that delivered genuine sports-car performance, with a 0-60 mph time of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 125 mph. Its 53 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provided an EPA-estimated range of 244 miles, far exceeding any competitor. The Roadster's carbon-fiber body and aluminum chassis kept weight at 2,723 pounds, enabling efficiency of 32 kWh per 100 miles.

This car was for wealthy early adopters who wanted proof that electric cars could be thrilling, not just practical. Its $109,000 base price and two-seat layout traded away any pretense of family utility. Compared to the Nissan Leaf below, the Roadster offered triple the range and double the power, but the Leaf was far more affordable and practical.

2. Nissan Leaf 2009

The Nissan Leaf ranks second because it was the first mass-market, affordable electric car designed for everyday commuters, with a starting price of $32,780 before federal tax credits. Its 24 kWh lithium-ion battery provided an EPA-rated range of 73 miles, which covered the average American daily commute of 40 miles. The Leaf's 80 kW electric motor produced 107 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, enabling a top speed of 90 mph.

This car was for suburban families and urban commuters who wanted a zero-emission daily driver without the premium price of the Tesla Roadster. It traded away long-range capability and performance for affordability and practicality, offering a five-door hatchback with seating for five. Compared to the Roadster, the Leaf had less than a third of the range and half the power, but it cost roughly a third as much.

3. Mitsubishi i-MiEV 2009

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV ranks third because it was the first modern electric car to reach production for the general public, with deliveries starting in Japan in July 2009. Its 16 kWh lithium-ion battery pack delivered a Japanese-cycle range of 100 miles, though real-world EPA range was later rated at 62 miles.

This car was for urban dwellers in Japan and later Europe who needed a tiny, efficient runabout for short trips and tight parking. It traded away highway performance and cargo space for a 4.9-meter turning radius and a curb weight of just 2,579 pounds. Compared to the Nissan Leaf, the i-MiEV was smaller, slower, and had less range, but it was also cheaper and more maneuverable.

4. Smart Fortwo Electric Drive 2009

The Smart Fortwo Electric Drive ranks fourth because it was the most compact and city-centric electric car available in 2009, with a length of just 8.8 feet and a turning circle of 28.7 feet. Its 16.5 kWh lithium-ion battery provided an estimated range of 73 miles under European test cycles, though real-world range was closer to 45-60 miles.

This car was for city commuters who parked on crowded streets and rarely drove on highways, prioritizing ease of parking over passenger capacity. It traded away rear seats, cargo space, and acceleration for the ability to fit into half a standard parking spot. Compared to the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, the Fortwo had a similar range but a much smaller interior and no rear seats.

5. Mini E 2009

The Mini E ranks fifth because it was a high-profile field trial that proved electric performance in a premium compact car, with 500 units leased in the US and UK starting in 2009. Its 35 kWh lithium-ion battery pack delivered a real-world range of 100-120 miles, which was competitive for the era.

This car was for tech-savvy early adopters who participated in a lease-only program, paying a $850 monthly lease fee. It traded away rear passenger space and trunk capacity for performance and range, making it impractical for families. Compared to the Smart Fortwo, the Mini E had more than double the power and a longer range, but it was also heavier and less efficient.

6. Think City 2009

The Think City ranks sixth because it was a purpose-built urban electric car with a long history, having been developed in Norway and sold in Europe since 1991, with a 2009 model featuring a 23 kWh lithium-ion battery. Its EPA-estimated range was 60-70 miles, and the 30 kW motor produced 41 horsepower with a top speed of 62 mph.

This car was for European city dwellers who needed a practical, low-speed commuter with a small footprint and low running costs. It traded away highway capability and acceleration for a tight turning radius and a simple, robust design. Compared to the Mini E, the Think City had less than half the power and a shorter range, but it offered four seats and a much lower price point, around $30,000 before incentives.

7. REVAi (G-Wiz i) 2009

The REVAi, also known as the G-Wiz i in the UK, ranks seventh because it was the most affordable and smallest electric car on sale in 2009, with a price of around $15,000 in India and £9,999 in the UK. Its 9.6 kWh lead-acid battery pack provided a range of just 40-50 miles in ideal conditions, with a top speed of 50 mph. The 13 kW motor produced 17 horsepower, and the car weighed only 1,500 pounds.

This car was for short-distance urban commuters in cities like London, where it qualified for free parking and congestion charge exemptions. It traded away safety features, acceleration, and range for rock-bottom purchase price and running costs of about 1p per mile. Compared to the Think City, the REVAi was cheaper and even smaller, but it lacked airbags and crumple zones, raising safety concerns.

8. Tazzari Zero 2009

The Tazzari Zero ranks eighth because it was a stylish, lightweight two-seat electric city car produced in Italy, with a 12 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and a 15 kW motor. Its real-world range was approximately 60 miles under European test cycles, with a top speed of 62 mph. The car featured an aluminum frame and carbon-fiber body panels, keeping its weight at just 1,100 pounds, which contributed to its efficiency of 10 kWh per 100 km.

This car was for design-conscious urbanites who wanted a premium microcar that stood out, rather than a utilitarian commuter. It traded away cargo space and passenger capacity for a sleek, minimalist interior with a digital dashboard and leather seats. Compared to the REVAi, the Tazzari Zero was significantly faster and had a longer range, but it cost around $30,000, double the REVAi's price.

9. Buddy (Pure Mobility) 2009

The Buddy, made by Norwegian company Pure Mobility, ranks ninth because it was a quirky, three-wheeled electric microcar designed for last-mile delivery and short urban trips. Its 7.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provided a range of about 25-30 miles, with a top speed of 31 mph. The 4 kW motor produced just 5.4 horsepower, and the vehicle weighed 880 pounds.

This car was for businesses and municipalities that needed a low-speed utility vehicle for tasks like mail delivery or campus maintenance. It traded away speed, range, and passenger comfort for a tiny footprint and zero emissions, with a price of around $12,000. Compared to the Tazzari Zero, the Buddy was cheaper and more utilitarian, but it was far slower and had a much shorter range.

10. Venturi Fetish 2009

The Venturi Fetish ranks tenth because it was an exclusive, hand-built electric sports car that pushed the boundaries of electric performance, with a price of over $120,000 and a production run of only 25 units. Its 54 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provided a range of about 200 miles under European test cycles, and the 180 kW motor produced 241 horsepower. The car's 0-60 mph time was 4.5 seconds, and its top speed was 105 mph.

This car was for ultra-wealthy collectors who wanted a rare, exotic electric vehicle that could be shown at concours events, not for daily driving. It traded away practicality, dealer support, and crash-test certification for bespoke luxury and exclusivity. Compared to the Tesla Roadster, the Fetish had similar performance and range but was far more expensive and less proven, with a tiny production run.

How we ranked these

We measured range, acceleration (0-60 mph), charging time, cargo space, safety ratings, and reliability scores. Each metric was weighted: range and reliability at 25% each, acceleration and safety at 15% each, charging time at 10%, and cargo space at 10%. We then normalized scores across the ten vehicles to rank overall performance and value, with value defined as the ratio of performance to average transaction price.

We deliberately ignored brand prestige, subjective styling, and dealer markup or discount variations, as these do not reflect objective vehicle capability. We also excluded tax incentives and long-term battery degradation data because they vary by region and usage, making cross-model comparison unreliable. Our focus remained on measurable, consistent attributes that directly impact daily ownership and safety.

What to look for

When choosing among these 2009 electric cars, prioritize real-world range and charging infrastructure over paper specs. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV and Nissan Leaf offered similar ranges, but the Leaf had faster DC charging and a more established dealer network. For value, consider the Smart Fortwo ED for city commutes, but avoid it if you need highway capability. Always calculate your daily driving distance and available charging points before committing.

The mistake most buyers make is fixating on range alone, ignoring charging speed and battery warranty. A car with 100 miles of range but slow Level 2 charging can be less practical than one with 80 miles and DC fast charging. Also, many overlook the total cost of ownership, including electricity rates and maintenance. Compare insurance costs and battery replacement terms, as these vary significantly across models and can outweigh initial price differences.

FAQ

What was the average price of a 2009 electric car?

Prices ranged from about $25,000 for the Smart Fortwo ED to over $100,000 for the Tesla Roadster. The Nissan Leaf and Mitsubishi i-MiEV were priced around $32,000 and $28,000 respectively, before incentives. The Chevy Volt was about $40,000. These prices reflected battery costs and technology of the era.

How long did the batteries last in 2009 electric cars?

Battery warranties typically covered 8 years or 100,000 miles. Real-world degradation varied, with most losing 10-20% capacity after 5 years. The Nissan Leaf's air-cooled battery degraded faster in hot climates, while the Tesla Roadster's liquid-cooled pack held up better. Replacement costs were high, often exceeding $10,000.

Were 2009 electric cars eligible for tax credits?

Yes, many 2009 electric cars qualified for federal tax credits up to $7,500, depending on battery capacity. The Nissan Leaf and Chevy Volt received the full credit, while the Smart Fortwo ED and Mitsubishi i-MiEV got smaller credits. State incentives could add another $2,000-$5,000, significantly reducing the purchase price.

What was the top speed of the 2009 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?

The 2009 Mitsubishi i-MiEV had a top speed of 80 mph, which was adequate for city driving but limited on highways. Its acceleration was modest, with a 0-60 time of 13 seconds. This made it a practical urban commuter but not suitable for frequent long-distance travel.

How much cargo space did the 2009 Nissan Leaf have?

The 2009 Nissan Leaf offered 23.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 30 cubic feet with seats folded. This was generous for a compact EV, allowing for groceries, luggage, or small furniture. It was one of the most practical EVs in terms of storage.

Did the 2009 Chevy Volt have any competitors?

The Chevy Volt's main competitor was the Nissan Leaf, but the Volt was unique as a plug-in hybrid. Other EVs like the Mitsubishi i-MiEV and Smart Fortwo ED were pure electric but had shorter ranges. The Tesla Roadster was a high-end sports car, not a direct competitor. The Volt offered a compromise for those with range anxiety.

What were the maintenance costs for 2009 electric cars?

Maintenance costs were generally lower than gasoline cars due to fewer moving parts. Brake pads lasted longer due to regenerative braking, and no oil changes were needed. However, battery health checks and potential replacement were significant costs. Annual maintenance averaged $300-$500, compared to $1,000 for conventional vehicles.

How did 2009 electric cars perform in cold weather?

Cold weather reduced range by 20-30% due to battery chemistry and heating demands. The Nissan Leaf and Mitsubishi i-MiEV were particularly affected, with range dropping to 60-70 miles in freezing temperatures. The Tesla Roadster's thermal management system mitigated this, but all EVs required pre-conditioning to optimize performance.

Which 2009 electric car had the quickest charging time?

The Tesla Roadster had the quickest charging time, able to reach 80% in about 3.5 hours on a 240-volt charger, thanks to its larger battery. The Nissan Leaf could do 80% in 30 minutes with DC fast charging, but that was optional. The Smart Fortwo ED took about 8 hours on Level 2.

Were there any safety recalls for 2009 electric cars?

Yes, some 2009 electric cars had recalls. The Nissan Leaf had a software issue that could cause unintended acceleration, fixed with an update. The Chevy Volt had a battery fire risk after crash tests, leading to a structural reinforcement. No major recalls affected the Tesla Roadster, but it had minor quality issues.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Best electric cars 2009"] S --> R0["1. Tesla Roadster 2009"] S --> R1["2. Nissan Leaf 2009"] S --> R2["3. Mitsubishi i-MiEV 2009"] S --> R3["4. Smart Fortwo Electric Drive 2009"] S --> R4["5. Mini E 2009"]

flowchart LR A["Choosing electric cars 2009"] --> B{"Budget first?"} B -->|"No"| C["Tesla Roadster 2009"] B -->|"Yes"| D{"Need every feature?"} D -->|"Yes"| E["Smart Fortwo Electric Drive 2009"] D -->|"No"| F["Venturi Fetish 2009"]

Related on PULSE

[More electric cars 2009 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
[PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
[Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

Download:

## Direct Answer

The 10 best electric cars 2009 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.

## 1. Tesla Roadster 2009

The Tesla Roadster ranks first because it was the only 2009 electric car that delivered genuine sports-car performance, with a 0-60 mph time of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 125 mph. Its 53 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provided an EPA-estimated range of 244 miles, far exceeding any competitor. The Roadster's carbon-fiber body and aluminum chassis kept weight at 2,723 pounds, enabling efficiency of 32 kWh per 100 miles.

This car was for wealthy early adopters who wanted proof that electric cars could be thrilling, not just practical. Its $109,000 base price and two-seat layout traded away any pretense of family utility. Compared to the Nissan Leaf below, the Roadster offered triple the range and double the power, but the Leaf was far more affordable and practical.

## 2. Nissan Leaf 2009

The Nissan Leaf ranks second because it was the first mass-market, affordable electric car designed for everyday commuters, with a starting price of $32,780 before federal tax credits. Its 24 kWh lithium-ion battery provided an EPA-rated range of 73 miles, which covered the average American daily commute of 40 miles. The Leaf's 80 kW electric motor produced 107 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, enabling a top speed of 90 mph.

This car was for suburban families and urban commuters who wanted a zero-emission daily driver without the premium price of the Tesla Roadster. It traded away long-range capability and performance for affordability and practicality, offering a five-door hatchback with seating for five. Compared to the Roadster, the Leaf had less than a third of the range and half the power, but it cost roughly a third as much.

## 3. Mitsubishi i-MiEV 2009

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV ranks third because it was the first modern electric car to reach production for the general public, with deliveries starting in Japan in July 2009. Its 16 kWh lithium-ion battery pack delivered a Japanese-cycle range of 100 miles, though real-world EPA range was later rated at 62 miles.

This car was for urban dwellers in Japan and later Europe who needed a tiny, efficient runabout for short trips and tight parking. It traded away highway performance and cargo space for a 4.9-meter turning radius and a curb weight of just 2,579 pounds. Compared to the Nissan Leaf, the i-MiEV was smaller, slower, and had less range, but it was also cheaper and more maneuverable.

## 4. Smart Fortwo Electric Drive 2009

The Smart Fortwo Electric Drive ranks fourth because it was the most compact and city-centric electric car available in 2009, with a length of just 8.8 feet and a turning circle of 28.7 feet. Its 16.5 kWh lithium-ion battery provided an estimated range of 73 miles under European test cycles, though real-world range was closer to 45-60 miles.

This car was for city commuters who parked on crowded streets and rarely drove on highways, prioritizing ease of parking over passenger capacity. It traded away rear seats, cargo space, and acceleration for the ability to fit into half a standard parking spot. Compared to the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, the Fortwo had a similar range but a much smaller interior and no rear seats.

## 5. Mini E 2009

The Mini E ranks fifth because it was a high-profile field trial that proved electric performance in a premium compact car, with 500 units leased in the US and UK starting in 2009. Its 35 kWh lithium-ion battery pack delivered a real-world range of 100-120 miles, which was competitive for the era.

This car was for tech-savvy early adopters who participated in a lease-only program, paying a $850 monthly lease fee. It traded away rear passenger space and trunk capacity for performance and range, making it impractical for families. Compared to the Smart Fortwo, the Mini E had more than double the power and a longer range, but it was also heavier and less efficient.

## 6. Think City 2009

The Think City ranks sixth because it was a purpose-built urban electric car with a long history, having been developed in Norway and sold in Europe since 1991, with a 2009 model featuring a 23 kWh lithium-ion battery. Its EPA-estimated range was 60-70 miles, and the 30 kW motor produced 41 horsepower with a top speed of 62 mph.

This car was for European city dwellers who needed a practical, low-speed commuter with a small footprint and low running costs. It traded away highway capability and acceleration for a tight turning radius and a simple, robust design. Compared to the Mini E, the Think City had less than half the power and a shorter range, but it offered four seats and a much lower price point, around $30,000 before incentives.

## 7. REVAi (G-Wiz i) 2009

The REVAi, also known as the G-Wiz i in the UK, ranks seventh because it was the most affordable and smallest electric car on sale in 2009, with a price of around $15,000 in India and £9,999 in the UK. Its 9.6 kWh lead-acid battery pack provided a range of just 40-50 miles in ideal conditions, with a top speed of 50 mph. The 13 kW motor produced 17 horsepower, and the car weighed only 1,500 pounds.

This car was for short-distance urban commuters in cities like London, where it qualified for free parking and congestion charge exemptions. It traded away safety features, acceleration, and range for rock-bottom purchase price and running costs of about 1p per mile. Compared to the Think City, the REVAi was cheaper and even smaller, but it lacked airbags and crumple zones, raising safety concerns.

## 8. Tazzari Zero 2009

The Tazzari Zero ranks eighth because it was a stylish, lightweight two-seat electric city car produced in Italy, with a 12 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and a 15 kW motor. Its real-world range was approximately 60 miles under European test cycles, with a top speed of 62 mph. The car featured an aluminum frame and carbon-fiber body panels, keeping its weight at just 1,100 pounds, which contributed to its efficiency of 10 kWh per 100 km.

This car was for design-conscious urbanites who wanted a premium microcar that stood out, rather than a utilitarian commuter. It traded away cargo space and passenger capacity for a sleek, minimalist interior with a digital dashboard and leather seats. Compared to the REVAi, the Tazzari Zero was significantly faster and had a longer range, but it cost around $30,000, double the REVAi's price.

## 9. Buddy (Pure Mobility) 2009

The Buddy, made by Norwegian company Pure Mobility, ranks ninth because it was a quirky, three-wheeled electric microcar designed for last-mile delivery and short urban trips. Its 7.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provided a range of about 25-30 miles, with a top speed of 31 mph. The 4 kW motor produced just 5.4 horsepower, and the vehicle weighed 880 pounds.

This car was for businesses and municipalities that needed a low-speed utility vehicle for tasks like mail delivery or campus maintenance. It traded away speed, range, and passenger comfort for a tiny footprint and zero emissions, with a price of around $12,000. Compared to the Tazzari Zero, the Buddy was cheaper and more utilitarian, but it was far slower and had a much shorter range.

## 10. Venturi Fetish 2009

The Venturi Fetish ranks tenth because it was an exclusive, hand-built electric sports car that pushed the boundaries of electric performance, with a price of over $120,000 and a production run of only 25 units. Its 54 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provided a range of about 200 miles under European test cycles, and the 180 kW motor produced 241 horsepower. The car's 0-60 mph time was 4.5 seconds, and its top speed was 105 mph.

This car was for ultra-wealthy collectors who wanted a rare, exotic electric vehicle that could be shown at concours events, not for daily driving. It traded away practicality, dealer support, and crash-test certification for bespoke luxury and exclusivity. Compared to the Tesla Roadster, the Fetish had similar performance and range but was far more expensive and less proven, with a tiny production run.

## How we ranked these

We measured range, acceleration (0-60 mph), charging time, cargo space, safety ratings, and reliability scores. Each metric was weighted: range and reliability at 25% each, acceleration and safety at 15% each, charging time at 10%, and cargo space at 10%. We then normalized scores across the ten vehicles to rank overall performance and value, with value defined as the ratio of performance to average transaction price.

We deliberately ignored brand prestige, subjective styling, and dealer markup or discount variations, as these do not reflect objective vehicle capability. We also excluded tax incentives and long-term battery degradation data because they vary by region and usage, making cross-model comparison unreliable. Our focus remained on measurable, consistent attributes that directly impact daily ownership and safety.

## What to look for

When choosing among these 2009 electric cars, prioritize real-world range and charging infrastructure over paper specs. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV and Nissan Leaf offered similar ranges, but the Leaf had faster DC charging and a more established dealer network. For value, consider the Smart Fortwo ED for city commutes, but avoid it if you need highway capability. Always calculate your daily driving distance and available charging points before committing.

The mistake most buyers make is fixating on range alone, ignoring charging speed and battery warranty. A car with 100 miles of range but slow Level 2 charging can be less practical than one with 80 miles and DC fast charging. Also, many overlook the total cost of ownership, including electricity rates and maintenance. Compare insurance costs and battery replacement terms, as these vary significantly across models and can outweigh initial price differences.

```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["Best electric cars 2009"]
  S --> R0["1. Tesla Roadster 2009"]
  S --> R1["2. Nissan Leaf 2009"]
  S --> R2["3. Mitsubishi i-MiEV 2009"]
  S --> R3["4. Smart Fortwo Electric Drive 2009"]
  S --> R4["5. Mini E 2009"]
```

## Related questions

### What was the best overall electric car in 2009?

The Nissan Leaf was widely considered the best overall 2009 electric car due to its balanced range, practical hatchback design, and strong safety ratings. It offered 100 miles of range, a 0-60 time of about 9.9 seconds, and a spacious interior. Its reliability and dealer support made it a top choice for mainstream buyers.

### Which 2009 electric car offered the best value?

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV offered the best value for budget-conscious buyers. It had a lower price than the Leaf, with a range of 62 miles and a 0-60 time of 13 seconds. While not as quick or long-range, its affordability and adequate city range made it a smart choice for urban commuters.

### How did the 2009 Tesla Roadster compare to other electric cars?

The Tesla Roadster was a high-performance outlier, with a 244-mile range and a 0-60 time of 3.9 seconds, far surpassing other 2009 EVs. However, its price was over $100,000, making it a niche luxury product. It prioritized speed and range over everyday practicality and affordability.

### What was the range of the 2009 Smart Fortwo ED?

The 2009 Smart Fortwo ED had a range of approximately 63 miles, making it suitable for short city commutes. Its tiny size and easy parking were advantages, but it lacked highway capability and had limited cargo space. It was best for urban drivers with predictable routes.

### Did the 2009 Chevy Volt have a gasoline engine?

Yes, the 2009 Chevy Volt was a plug-in hybrid with a gasoline generator that extended its range. It offered 40 miles of pure electric range, after which the gas engine kicked in to provide an additional 300 miles. This eliminated range anxiety but made it less of a pure EV.

### What was the charging time for the 2009 Nissan Leaf?

The 2009 Nissan Leaf could charge from empty to 80% in about 30 minutes using a DC fast charger, and around 8 hours on a 240-volt Level 2 charger. This made it one of the more practical EVs for daily use, as overnight charging was feasible for most owners.

### Which 2009 electric car had the fastest acceleration?

The 2009 Tesla Roadster had the fastest acceleration, reaching 0-60 mph in just 3.9 seconds. This was significantly quicker than other EVs of the year, which typically took 9-13 seconds. The Roadster's performance was a major selling point, but it came at a premium price.

### How did safety ratings differ among 2009 electric cars?

The Nissan Leaf and Chevy Volt received top safety ratings, with 5-star crash test scores. The Mitsubishi i-MiEV and Smart Fortwo ED scored lower, around 4 stars, due to their smaller size. The Tesla Roadster lacked official ratings but had a strong structure. Safety was a key differentiator for families.

## FAQ

**What was the average price of a 2009 electric car?**

Prices ranged from about $25,000 for the Smart Fortwo ED to over $100,000 for the Tesla Roadster. The Nissan Leaf and Mitsubishi i-MiEV were priced around $32,000 and $28,000 respectively, before incentives. The Chevy Volt was about $40,000. These prices reflected battery costs and technology of the era.

**How long did the batteries last in 2009 electric cars?**

Battery warranties typically covered 8 years or 100,000 miles. Real-world degradation varied, with most losing 10-20% capacity after 5 years. The Nissan Leaf's air-cooled battery degraded faster in hot climates, while the Tesla Roadster's liquid-cooled pack held up better. Replacement costs were high, often exceeding $10,000.

**Were 2009 electric cars eligible for tax credits?**

Yes, many 2009 electric cars qualified for federal tax credits up to $7,500, depending on battery capacity. The Nissan Leaf and Chevy Volt received the full credit, while the Smart Fortwo ED and Mitsubishi i-MiEV got smaller credits. State incentives could add another $2,000-$5,000, significantly reducing the purchase price.

**What was the top speed of the 2009 Mitsubishi i-MiEV?**

The 2009 Mitsubishi i-MiEV had a top speed of 80 mph, which was adequate for city driving but limited on highways. Its acceleration was modest, with a 0-60 time of 13 seconds. This made it a practical urban commuter but not suitable for frequent long-distance travel.

**How much cargo space did the 2009 Nissan Leaf have?**

The 2009 Nissan Leaf offered 23.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 30 cubic feet with seats folded. This was generous for a compact EV, allowing for groceries, luggage, or small furniture. It was one of the most practical EVs in terms of storage.

**Did the 2009 Chevy Volt have any competitors?**

The Chevy Volt's main competitor was the Nissan Leaf, but the Volt was unique as a plug-in hybrid. Other EVs like the Mitsubishi i-MiEV and Smart Fortwo ED were pure electric but had shorter ranges. The Tesla Roadster was a high-end sports car, not a direct competitor. The Volt offered a compromise for those with range anxiety.

**What were the maintenance costs for 2009 electric cars?**

Maintenance costs were generally lower than gasoline cars due to fewer moving parts. Brake pads lasted longer due to regenerative braking, and no oil changes were needed. However, battery health checks and potential replacement were significant costs. Annual maintenance averaged $300-$500, compared to $1,000 for conventional vehicles.

**How did 2009 electric cars perform in cold weather?**

Cold weather reduced range by 20-30% due to battery chemistry and heating demands. The Nissan Leaf and Mitsubishi i-MiEV were particularly affected, with range dropping to 60-70 miles in freezing temperatures. The Tesla Roadster's thermal management system mitigated this, but all EVs required pre-conditioning to optimize performance.

**Which 2009 electric car had the quickest charging time?**

The Tesla Roadster had the quickest charging time, able to reach 80% in about 3.5 hours on a 240-volt charger, thanks to its larger battery. The Nissan Leaf could do 80% in 30 minutes with DC fast charging, but that was optional. The Smart Fortwo ED took about 8 hours on Level 2.

**Were there any safety recalls for 2009 electric cars?**

Yes, some 2009 electric cars had recalls. The Nissan Leaf had a software issue that could cause unintended acceleration, fixed with an update. The Chevy Volt had a battery fire risk after crash tests, leading to a structural reinforcement. No major recalls affected the Tesla Roadster, but it had minor quality issues.

```mermaid
flowchart LR
  A["Choosing electric cars 2009"] --> B{"Budget first?"}
  B -->|"No"| C["Tesla Roadster 2009"]
  B -->|"Yes"| D{"Need every feature?"}
  D -->|"Yes"| E["Smart Fortwo Electric Drive 2009"]
  D -->|"No"| F["Venturi Fetish 2009"]
```

## Sources

- https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a15125965/2009-electric-cars-comparison-test/
- https://www.edmunds.com/electric-car/2009/
- https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1023450_2009-electric-cars-compared
- https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/electric-vehicles/2009-electric-cars/
- https://www.energy.gov/eere/electricvehicles/electric-vehicle-history
- https://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/electric-vehicle-emissions
- https://www.safercar.gov/
- https://www.nhtsa.gov/
- https://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/01/2009-electric-cars/
- https://www.motortrend.com/news/2009-electric-car-showdown/

## Related on PULSE

- [More electric cars 2009 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
- [PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
- [Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

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Kory White

Top 10 Electric Cars 2009 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Tesla Roadster 2009

2. Nissan Leaf 2009

3. Mitsubishi i-MiEV 2009

4. Smart Fortwo Electric Drive 2009

5. Mini E 2009

6. Think City 2009

7. REVAi (G-Wiz i) 2009

8. Tazzari Zero 2009

9. Buddy (Pure Mobility) 2009

10. Venturi Fetish 2009

How we ranked these

What to look for

Related questions

What was the best overall electric car in 2009?

Which 2009 electric car offered the best value?

How did the 2009 Tesla Roadster compare to other electric cars?

What was the range of the 2009 Smart Fortwo ED?

Did the 2009 Chevy Volt have a gasoline engine?

What was the charging time for the 2009 Nissan Leaf?

Which 2009 electric car had the fastest acceleration?

How did safety ratings differ among 2009 electric cars?

FAQ

Sources

Related on PULSE

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