Battery range on new EVs continues to move forward at a rapid pace. What was once considered acceptable, around 200 miles, now feels firmly entry-level, while ranges of 300 miles and even further have become the norm across many mid-range and premium models. Below are the best electric cars for range, available now or coming soon in 2026.
The best long range electric cars available in 2026
BMW i3 – Audi A6 e-tron – Lucid Air – Mercedes-Benz CLA – Volkswagen ID.7 – Tesla Model 3
BMW i3
The recently revealed BMW i3 is the fully-electric alternative to BMW’s long-running 3 Series model. Built on a highly efficient EV platform which BMW calls the ‘Neue Klasse’, the i3 offers one of the most impressive battery ranges on the market.
Depending on the battery specified, the i3 can offer a range of up to 559 miles, far eclipsing rivals like the Tesla Model 3. The old 3 Series was always a great choice for drivers doing high annual mileages, and with this seriously impressive range, it looks like the i3 will be able to match the old model’s mile munching characteristics.
Audi A6 e-tron
Audi’s fully-electric executive saloon is another strong contender for one of the best long range electric cars.
In ‘e-tron performance’ specification, equipped with the larger 100kWh battery pack, the A6 e-tron boasts an impressive WLTP rated range of 463 miles – helped by both its strong aerodynamics and impressive efficiency of 4.5 miles per kWh. Despite that efficiency, it’s also no slouch, with a 381 horsepower electric motor. Cars like the A6 e-tron demonstrate the way EVs can seamlessly switch between eye-watering acceleration and efficiency in a way that their ICE counterparts often struggle to hold a candle to.
Lucid Air Grand Touring
American EV startup Lucid offer one of the longest range electric cars available, and is available in North America and select Middle East and European countries. The aptly-named Air ‘Grand Touring’ does what its name suggests, with a quoted range of up to 512 miles, combined with its luxurious interior and impressive performance, making it the perfect grand tourer EV.
Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric
Mercedes-Benz’s most affordable EV is also one of the longest range Mercedes-Benz EVs available. The CLA Electric can offer up a WLTP-rated range of 492 miles, depending on specification, far exceeding other models within its electric lineup.
The CLA platform brings new levels of efficiency to its EV portfolio, with features such as an air-to-air heat pump helping to boost efficiency. Until the arrival of the BMW i3 later this year, the CLA is currently the longest range electric car you can buy in Europe.
Volkswagen ID.7
Volkswagen’s flagship electric saloon, the ID.7, has also proven itself as a long range hero. In Pro S configuration, the ID.7 already has an impressive quoted range from Volkswagen of 436 miles. However, in a recent hyper-miling test, a driver managed to exceed that number – travelling 493 miles on a single charge, driving in a 50 mile loop around the Swiss city of Zurich.
Tesla Model 3
When purchased in ‘Long Range’ specification, the latest Tesla Model 3 is also a great EV for travelling long distances between the plug. In this specification, the Model 3 can do 466 miles on a single charge. This car has some great attributes despite its range, too – including great acceleration, autopilot functionality, and one of the best infotainment systems in the business.
