If you’re considering making the shift to electric mobility and looking for a small electric car, we present the six most compact models on the market. Discover the features of the most interesting electric cars for city driving. Smaller vehicles are typically designed for four seats, and their boots offer limited capacity compared to larger electric cars. These features help improve their efficiency by reducing both capacity and weight.
Buying a small electric car in 2024 is more affordable than ever, thanks to government incentives for electric car purchases. In the European market, there is a variety of sizes within the small electric car category, ranging from 2.41 metres in length to just over 4 metres. Read on to discover the six most compact models available.
- 1 The smallest electric car: Citroën AMI from €7,200
- 2 The Fiat Topolino: the second smallest electric car of 2024 from under €10,000
- 3 The Smart EQ fortwo: the third smallest electric car of 2024 from €25,145
- 4 The Dacia Spring 2024: the most compact electric SUV from €19,590
- 5 Mini Cooper 100% electric: the small electric car with a length of only 3.85 metres
- 6 Renault 5 electric: the compact city option
- 7 Advantages of buying a small electric car in 2024
- 8 Key considerations when buying a small electric car
The smallest electric car: Citroën AMI from €7,200
The Citroën AMI stands out as the most compact electric vehicle in our selection, with a length of just 2.41 metres. Classified as a light electric quadricycle, it has legal limitations similar to those of a moped, with a maximum power of 6 kW (8 hp) and a top speed of 45 km/h. Its compact dimensions make it extremely practical for parking in tight spaces.
Dimensions and specifications of the Citroën AMI
The Citroën AMI measures 2.41 metres in length and 1.39 metres in width, with a weight of only 485 kilograms. Its load capacity is limited, supporting up to 64 kilograms. As standard, the Citroën AMI includes a charger that can be connected to a household power socket. However, it is recommended to install a dedicated home charging point for greater convenience and efficiency.
Basic features of the Citroën AMI
- Motor: 6 kW (8.2 hp)
- Battery capacity: 5.5 kWh
- Range: 75 km
- Acceleration: 0 to 45 km/h in 10 seconds
Price and customisation options of the Citroën AMI
You can purchase the Citroën AMI from €7,200, with various customisation options available, including a version designed for people with reduced mobility, the Citroën AMI For All. It is the most affordable model within our selection of utilitarian electric vehicles, with a starting price of €8,890..
The Fiat Topolino: the second smallest electric car of 2024 from under €10,000
The Fiat Topolino is a compact, fun, and 100% electric vehicle, available for less than €10,000 in Europe. Ideal for navigating city streets with agility, the Topolino has a top speed of 45 km/h and does not require a B-type driving licence.
Dimensions and specifications of the Fiat Topolino
The Fiat Topolino measures 2.53 metres in length, 1.52 metres in height, and 1.39 metres in width, excluding external rear-view mirrors. Thanks to its compact design, it is perfect for urban driving and parking in tight spaces.
Basic features of the Fiat Topolino
- Quick charging: Can be fully charged in under 4 hours
- Zero emissions: CO2-free for eco-friendly driving
- Accessibility: Classified as a quadricycle, suitable for people aged 15 and above
- Safety: Equipped with four wheels, providing greater stability
Price and customisation options of the Fiat Topolino
The Fiat Topolino is available in two versions: the standard model and the Topolino Dolcevita, both for under €10,000. It is also available in the Verde Vita colour. Fiat provides a range of after-sales services through authorised workshops, where trained technicians can perform annual maintenance checks and bodywork repairs.
There are various ways to use a charging point for a Fiat Topolino. As standard, it uses a charger that plugs into a household socket, but it is recommended to install a dedicated home charging point for greater convenience and efficiency.
The Smart EQ fortwo: the third smallest electric car of 2024 from €25,145
The Smart EQ fortwo ranks as the third most compact electric car on our list, noted for its two-seat design. With a length of 2.69 metres, this small electric car is perfect for manoeuvring and parking in the city. Equipped with a 60 kW motor, it offers an urban range of 183 kilometres, more than enough for daily city commutes. Additionally, its rapid charging time is only 40 minutes. If you’re looking for a small but sportier car, we recommend checking out the new BYD Song L plug-in hybrid.
Dimensions and specifications of the Smart EQ fortwo
The Smart EQ fortwo measures 2.69 metres in length, 1.66 metres in width, and 1.55 metres in height in its basic version. These dimensions make it a standout option among small electric cars, available from €25,145. Additionally, it is one of the cheapest second-hand electric cars on the market.
Basic features of the Smart EQ fortwo
- Motor: 60 kW
- Battery capacity: 17.6 kWh
- Range: 183 km
- Acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h in 11.6 seconds
Safety and efficiency of the Smart EQ fortwo
The Smart EQ fortwo includes advanced active and passive safety systems, such as the tridion safety cell and an active brake assistant. Additionally, it can autonomously select the appropriate level of energy recovery and features an ECO mode that activates with a single button press, optimising energy efficiency.
The Dacia Spring 2024: the most compact electric SUV from €19,590
The new Dacia Spring 2024 is the brand’s most compact 100% electric SUV, measuring less than four metres in length. It stands out as one of the most accessible small electric cars on the market.
Dimensions and price of the Dacia Spring, one of the cheapest electric cars in Europe
The Dacia Spring measures 3.73 metres in length and 1.516 metres in width. With an initial price of €19,590, it ranks as one of the most affordable and popular small electric cars today. If you’re seeking a faster-charging electric vehicle at the expense of some range, we recommend taking a look at the top electric motorcycles of 2024.
Basic features of the Dacia Spring
- Motor: 44 hp (32 kW)
- Battery capacity: 27.4 kWh
- Range: 230 km in WLTP mixed cycle, 305 km in urban cycle
- Acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h in 19.1 seconds
Equipment and options of the Dacia Spring
The Dacia Spring is homologated for four passengers and is offered in three trim levels: Essential, Extreme, and Cargo. Standard equipment includes manual air conditioning, a trip computer, a parking camera, a 7-inch multimedia screen, digital radio, and a basic set of driving assistants and safety features.
Though modest compared to some competitors, the Dacia Spring is an economical and efficient option for urban journeys, ideal for those seeking a practical and accessible vehicle. If you’re an electric mobility enthusiast, check out the MG7, one of the most anticipated electric cars.
Mini Cooper 100% electric: the small electric car with a length of only 3.85 metres
The fully electric Mini Cooper is a highly attractive option for the city, with a length of 3.85 metres. Although its starting price is higher, from over €37,000, it offers sporty performance and an iconic design.
Dimensions and price of the Mini Cooper electric
The Mini Cooper Electric is 3.85 metres long, 1.93 metres wide (including mirrors), and 1.46 metres tall. It’s important to check that your garage has adequate space for parking, as not all garages are the same size. If you need help installing a charging point for Mini Electric, you can consult our network of charging point installers.
Basic features of the Mini Cooper electric
- Motor: 135 kW (184 hp)
- Battery capacity: 28.9 kWh usable
- Range: 233 km (with the current battery)
- Acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds
The Mini Cooper Electric is ideal for those seeking a small urban electric car with a sporty touch and don’t mind investing a bit more in a high-performance electric vehicle.
Renault 5 electric: the compact city option
The Renault 5 Electric is a promising option for those seeking a small, efficient electric car. With a length of 3.92 metres, this model is smaller than other renowned urban vehicles like the Opel Corsa-e or the Peugeot e-208, making it the ideal city car.
Dimensions and range of the Renault 5 electric
In terms of dimensions, the Renault 5 Electric measures 3.92 metres in length, making it easier to manoeuvre and park in dense urban environments. Two battery options will be offered: one with 52 kWh, offering up to 400 km of range according to the WLTP cycle, and a 40 kWh variant arriving later. If you have questions about charging your Renault 5 and wish to install a charging point for the Renault 5 Electric, we recommend our Trydan electric charger.
Advanced technology and competitive pricing of the Renault 5 electric
The Renault 5 Electric stands out for its advanced technology, including Renault’s official avatar, Reno. This next-generation avatar promises an immersive digital experience, enhancing both driving and vehicle interaction. The Renault 5 Electric’s price will be around €25,000, making it a competitive option in the small urban electric car market.
Basic features of the Renault 5 electric
- Motor: 80 kW
- Battery capacity: 52 kWh and 40 kWh (in a later phase)
- Range: Up to 400 km (with the 52 kWh battery)
- Acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h in under 8 seconds and 80 to 120 km/h in under 7 seconds
The Renault 5 Electric will launch in Europe in late summer or early autumn 2024, offering a combination of efficiency, advanced technology, and a compact design ideal for the city.
Advantages of buying a small electric car in 2024
Los coches eléctricos pequeños, que cuentan con la etiqueta CERO, tienen libertad para circular y estacionar en áreas urbanas congestionadas. Además, su conducción es silenciosa, cómoda y sin complicaciones de cambios o embrague, lo que los hace adecuados para conductores de todos los niveles. Están exentos del impuesto de matriculación y tienen bajos costos de mantenimiento a largo plazo. Destacan por su rápida aceleración y eficiencia energética en atascos y semáforos, ayudando a reducir la contaminación y los gastos operativos.
Small electric cars, which are granted the ECO emissions label, have the freedom to drive and park in congested urban areas in Europe. Additionally, they offer a quiet, comfortable driving experience without the hassle of gear shifts or clutches, making them suitable for drivers of all levels. These cars are often exempt from registration taxes and have low long-term maintenance costs. They stand out for their quick acceleration and energy efficiency in traffic jams and at traffic lights, helping to reduce pollution and operational costs.
Key considerations when buying a small electric car
Before making your purchase decision, it’s essential to consider some key aspects when acquiring a small electric car. One of the most important points is selecting the best electric car charger for home available on the market. If you’re wondering how to choose the best electric car charger for your home, or if you need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us.
What is the typical range of small electric cars?
The main difference in range between small electric cars and conventional vehicles lies in the size of the battery and, therefore, in their energy storage capacity. Small electric cars tend to have smaller batteries due to their reduced size, which limits their range compared to larger electric vehicles. This means that small electric cars generally offer a more limited range, ideal for urban commutes and short trips, while larger electric vehicles may provide longer ranges, making them more suitable for long-distance travel.
How long does it take to charge a small electric car, and how does it differ from typical electric vehicles?
The charging time of a small electric car can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of charger used, battery capacity, and the initial charge level. In general, small electric cars tend to have smaller batteries compared to typical electric vehicles, which can result in shorter charging times.
For instance, some small electric cars may take several hours to fully charge using a standard home charger, while others may offer fast-charging options that can significantly reduce charging times.
The main difference in terms of charging between small electric cars and typical electric vehicles lies in the battery capacity and, therefore, the amount of energy required for a full charge. Typical electric vehicles tend to have larger batteries, which can result in longer charging times compared to small electric cars. However, advances in fast-charging technology are helping to reduce this gap, enabling faster charging times for a variety of electric vehicles.
Are small electric cars more economical?
Yes, in general, small electric cars tend to be more economical than standard or large electric vehicles. This is because they usually have smaller, less expensive batteries, which contributes to lowering the total cost of the vehicle. Additionally, being more compact, they may require fewer materials for production, which can also influence their lower price compared to larger models.
En conclusión, los coches eléctricos pequeños no solo facilitan la vida en la ciudad, sino que también representan una opción económica y ecológica para aquellos que buscan reducir su huella de carbono, además de aprovechar los incentivos actuales para la movilidad eléctrica.
In conclusion, small electric cars not only make city life easier but also represent an economical and eco-friendly option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. Moreover, they allow drivers to benefit from the current incentives for electric mobility.
