Tesla vs. Other Electric Cars: Pitting Tesla Against 2 Key Rivals

Key Points

• Tesla has been the gold standard for EVs for a number of years.
• Tesla was one of the first EV manufacturers to bring a standardized product to the masses.
• Tesla’s popularity is due to its wide-ranging charging network and eligibility for federal tax rebates.
• The lower-cost models of the Tesla lineup, such as the Model 3, have been the most popular.
• Tesla offers a plush interior electronics suite with a wide variety of entertainment options.

Tesla vs. other electric cars has been a point of contention for many EV enthusiasts. Tesla has been the gold standard for EVs for a number of years. That said, it isn’t the sole manufacturer on the market today.

Multiple companies have entered the market with EVs of their own at competitive price rates. While some may not offer up the same list of features as Tesla, they are still worth considering. If you’ve been in the market for an EV, it can be a difficult decision to choose the best.

There are multiple considerations factored in when comparing Tesla to two of its rivals. The companies covered could very easily sway your decision when it comes to purchasing an EV. So, get a drink and get ready to dive into the world of electric vehicles.

Tesla Overview

Tesla isn’t the first manufacturer to build an EV, but it is the first to make a commercially successful and viable product. As such, it has made the entire Tesla line up a good metric when looking at other EVs.

Tesla has made quite a showing when it comes to EVs, and has a strong second hand market for users on a budget. One thing is certain, Tesla isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

Why Tesla is so Popular

Tesla was one of the first EV manufacturers to really bring a standardized product to the masses. As far as EV manufacturers go, not many are blurring the lines between luxury and mid-range automobiles while maintaining an eco-friendly fuel source.

Something that is ushered Tesla’s popularity is a wide-ranging charging network, one of the first in the United States. Chances are quite good that whatever city you end up in has a Tesla charging station close by.

Cost is another consideration, as up until very recently Tesla has been eligible for the federal tax rebate program. This guarantees a $7,500 rebate for the purchase of a new electric vehicle that has also been built and assembled in the United States.

These rebates are limited in number, so for Tesla to no longer qualify is just a simple attestation to the fact. Prices have been kept somewhat affordable with this rebate in the past, with new Model 3s and Model Ys retailing for well below $40,000 once the rebate is applied.

Best Selling Models

The lower-cost models of the Tesla lineup have proven to be the most popular. The crossover Model 3 has been a perennial bestseller since its introduction. With a suggested retail price of below $50,000 for the basic trim package and over 200 miles of range it is a solid choice.

Those looking for a larger EV would be better suited to look at the Model Y, Tesla’s budget SUV model. It is a more expensive option compared to the Model 3, but still well below the Model S and Model X.

Speaking of the Model S, it has served as a status symbol for a number of years now. The Model S has the distinction of being the very first Tesla model introduced to the general public. It is priced like a luxury car, and as such might be well out of the average household budget.

The Model X rounds out the Tesla lineup, fitting in as a luxury brand SUV of sorts for the whole lineup. Much like the Model S it is priced out of budget for most households.

Tesla vs Two Other Rivals: Side-by-Side Comparison

Before the nitty gritty details, let’s discuss a bit of the method behind today’s testing. This guide will be covering the most popular model from three manufacturers, the Model 3 from Tesla, the Mustang Mach-E from Ford, and the Bolt EUV from Chevy.

All three of these vehicles occupy a similar niche, come in it at similar price points, and are hugely popular choices.

Tesla vs. Other Electric Cars: What’s the Difference?

The odd man out in this comparison is the Chevy Bolt EUV. It is a budget option through and through, but still sees comparable sales figures to the Model 3. It may not be directly comparable in terms of pricing or performance, but is worth mentioning nonetheless.

Performance

In terms of raw performance, the Ford Mustang Mach-E comes out on top. The Tesla Model 3 isn’t far behind when it comes to power, however. Chevy’s Bolt EUV is a bit anemic when looking at stats like acceleration and handling.

When it comes to the question of who wins between Tesla vs. other electric cars, the Model 3 does just fine for itself. In every other conceivable performance metric it does well. It may not boast the strong acceleration of the Mustang Mach-E, but it has considerably more range.

If you’re looking for an EV solely based upon performance, the Tesla Model 3 is the gold standard.

Electronics

Tesla offers a fairly plush experience when it comes to the interior electronics suite. You’ll find a standard complement of choices like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. That aside, you’ll also find a wide variety of entertainment options.

The center infotainment panel of the Model 3 can be a multimedia center, gaming console, or just function as an audio streaming hub.

The Chevy Bolt EUV isn’t going to turn heads with what is on offer in terms of interior electronics. That said, for the budget option it does come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Digital assistants like Alexa can be readily used as well, which aids with navigation and other tasks.

The Mustang Mach-E features similar features to the Bolt EUV. You’ll find the requisite Apple CarPlay and Android Auto choices available. Of note, however, is that Ford allows system preferences to be stored on driver profiles. You get access to three driver profiles, along with a guest profile.

In terms of electronics for the question of who wins in Tesla vs. other electric cars, Tesla comes out on top yet again.

Warranty Information

Tesla has set the standard when it comes to warranties for EVs. There is nothing truly stand out, but the Model 3’s warranty has been instrumental in guiding the automotive industry.

You’ll find a standard limited warranty with four years or 50,000 miles of coverage. The powertrain is covered for eight years or 100,000 miles.

Chevy offers coverage for more of the components overall, but is lacking compared to other manufacturers. The Bolt EUV has a three year or 36,000 mile limited warranty.

The powertrain is covered for five years or 60,000 miles. Regular scheduled maintenance is available for the first three years, however.

The Mustang Mach-E has pretty standard fare for a warranty package. Ford has included three years or 36,000 miles of coverage for the limited warranty. The powertrain and electrical components have slightly more coverage at five years and eight years respectively.

Tesla vs. Other Electric Cars: Must-Know Facts

• The Model 3 remains the most popular EV in the country.
• The Model 3 still qualifies for reduced federal tax credits.
• The Chevy Bolt EUV is the cheapest new EV on the market today.
• The Chevy Bolt EUV still qualifies for the full amount of federal tax credits.
• The Mustang Mach-E has dual motors as its default configuration.
• The Mustang Mach-E still qualifies for the full amount of federal tax credits.

Tesla vs. Other Electric Cars: Which One Wins? Which Should You Choose?

If you’re in the market for an EV, the Tesla Model 3 is a solid and reliable choice. It has had multiple years of proven success and reliable performance. It might not fit the budgets of lower income households, however.

That said, the Chevy Bolt EUV isn’t the flashiest EV on the block. It is cheap, reliable, and fitted with multiple modern electronic options.

The Mustang Mach-E is also a rock solid choice and is most directly comparable to the offerings from Tesla.

Before you talk to your local dealership, make sure to spend some time behind the wheel of any EV you’re looking to purchase.