The 10 most influential electric cars in automotive history

From the first models of the 19th century to the futuristic hypercars of today, electric vehicles have always been an integral part of the automotive world. Discover our selection of the 10 electric cars that have had the most impact on the history of the automobile, due to their innovative nature or their impact on the market.

1. Detroit Electric (United States, 1907)

Produced in more than 13,000 copies between 1907 and 1939, the Detroit Electric was prized by the American elite for its quiet engine and crank-free start. Despite a price 10 times higher than that of a Ford T, it appealed to personalities like Thomas Edison and Henry Ford’s wife.

2. GM EV1 (USA, 1996)

First electric car mass-produced by a major manufacturer, the GM EV1 has become an icon. Featuring a futuristic plastic body and a NiMH battery offering up to 142 miles of range, it was unfortunately recalled and destroyed by GM who deemed it unprofitable.

3. Nissan Leaf (Japan, 2010)

First mass-produced electric car, the Nissan Leaf democratized this type of motorization. With more than 650,000 units sold in 13 years of career, it has proven that a zero-emission city car can find its audience. A pioneering model which bows out in 2026.

4. BMW i3 (Germany, 2012)

BMW’s first 100% electric car, thei3 stood out for its high-tech design with an aluminum chassis and a carbon fiber shell. Despite lackluster sales and a cessation of production in 2022, it paved the way for the current electrified models of the Bavarian brand.

5. Tesla Model S (United States, 2012)

The world’s first 100% electric luxury sedan, the Tesla Model S revolutionized its segment with its supercar performance and record autonomy. Regularly updated, it remains the benchmark on the market and has enabled the growth of Tesla, which has become the world number 1 in electric vehicles.

6. Chevrolet Bolt (United States, 2017)

With its range of 240 miles and its affordable price, the Chevrolet Bolt democratized the electric car in the United States. Voted North American Car of the Year 2017, it proved that GM had learned the lessons of the EV1. The Bolt should be replaced by a new generation soon.

7. Volkswagen ID.3 (Germany, 2019)

Designed as the “Golf of the 21st century”, the Volkswagen ID.3 marks a turning point for the German giant after the Dieselgate scandal. Despite a difficult start, this electric compact has established itself in Europe thanks to its price/autonomy ratio. It opens the way to a whole ID range.

8. Polestar 2 (Sweden/China, 2021)

With its typically Scandinavian refined design and vegan interior, the Polestar 2 embodies a new vision of electric luxury. This anti-Tesla sedan focuses on quality more than showing off, without sacrificing performance. A unique model that is already a hit in the United States.

9. Rimac Nevera (Croatia, 2022)

A real electric bomb, the Rimac Nevera pushes the limits of performance with its 1888 hp and 258 mph peak. This Croatian hypercar smashed several track records in 2023, establishing itself as the fastest production electric car in the world. Only 150 copies will be produced.

10. NIO ET7 (China, 2023)

Spearhead of the Chinese brand NIO, the large sedan ET7 caused a sensation by traveling 1044 km without recharging thanks to its 150 kWh semi-solid battery. A feat which solves the problem of autonomy, even if for the moment this model is not marketed outside China.

Reflecting human genius in the perpetual quest for innovation, these 10 models have contributed, each in their own way, to shaping the history of the electric automobile. Their technological innovations and avant-garde ideas have paved the way for a new era of mobility, cleaner and more sustainable. The electric car continues to surprise us! Summary