Which EV to Buy - Budget $60,000

Lozburgin on 03/08/2024 - 13:51
Last edited 03/08/2024 - 14:05 by 1 other user

Wanting to get an EV, about to get solar panels installed, so just think it makes a lot more sense than getting a new ICE vehicle.

Wanting a medium-sized SUV, space for kids' car seats and plenty of storage for trips away.

Planning to do some test drives shortly, at the moment just thinking either a Tesla Model Y, or BYD Atto. Keen to know what the OzBargainers think about these options, or if there are other EVs out there that are also worthy of consideration.

Budget is around the $50k-$60k mark, planning to buy it outright.

Automotive Electric Vehicle

Comments

        • Windows98 on 06/08/2024 - 22:26

          But people tell me that EVs have no resale value

  • [Deactivated] on 04/08/2024 - 23:06
    -1

    I was recently wondering what the break-even point is for an EV? Seems to me that their massive cost necessitates some pretty high mileage before you break even, and then some to beat what that money could have gotten you in the bank. Even if you save $2k a year, it’s going to take a decade to reach $20k. Surely you can just get a decent diesel for $40k and laugh your way to the bank?

    Or am I missing the point and this is just a rich person “I’m buying a luxury vehicle anyway, might as well get an EV” kind of deal?

    • dogzilla on 04/08/2024 - 23:55

      No different to buying a Ford Ranger when a Hilux will do the same thing at significantly lower cost….just without the w*nk factor of a Ford Ranger.

      In reality, there isn't much difference in what they do in the field, but some people feel they need suburban road warrior status.

      • dogzilla on 04/08/2024 - 23:56
        +1

        Also BYD's are similar price point to many mid-range cars these days now anyway.

        • [Deactivated] on 05/08/2024 - 09:50
          -1

          Sure but when you look at the quality of a BYD wouldn’t the comprison vehicle be a Great Wall for $18k less?

          • Jackson on 05/08/2024 - 11:49

            @[Deactivated]: No, becuase a cheap ICE great wall is likely to have issues with the engine/drivetrain whereas EVs are inherently more reliable, so you are probably less likely to have an major issue with a cheap EV than a cheap or even expensive ICE car. It's also a lot less reliant on servicing, so less chance of a manufacturer arguing against your claim if one comes up.

            The other point that seems to be forgotten is that as EV drivetrains are simpler, once batteries get cheaper (which is happening) when they really get up and running the price of one should be less than an equivalent ICE. In time it should be a win, win, win situation with price, performance and cost of ownership.

      • [Deactivated] on 05/08/2024 - 09:53
        -3

        So I guess back to my original point, the premium you’re paying on the electric battery, electric drivetrain, and any charging infrastructure is probably going to outweigh any savings on maintenance, petrol or rego, at least over for the average (~8y) lifetime and mileage of a new vehicle owner.

        That’s my impression anyway, just curious if there is any purely budgetary reason to buy one of these.

        • Jackson on 05/08/2024 - 11:53

          Not at all, in my case I picked up my first EV for 22k and it's paid me back it's entire price in fuel and maintenance savings in less than 9 years and it's still going and should do for me for at least 13 years. I just picked up my second for 26k and I expect that should be good for at least 25 if initial estimates are expected, but pay back will be a bit longer because I already had an EV and this replaced a second ICE vehicle. It's a no brainer and only going to get cheaper. The initial compromises I had to make were more about vehicle size/type, but that's changed now with bigger vehicles available

          • [Deactivated] on 05/08/2024 - 13:28

            @Jackson: For sure, if you can pick one up for $22k that makes sense. How’d you get a $22k Tesla(?) in 2015 though? Even a BYD is almost twice that price now.

        • dogzilla on 06/08/2024 - 00:23

          well if you have a decent solar system set up correctly you could potentially charge almost for free, plus a few places offer free / reduced cost charging so the benefits of a vehicle you don't have to pay for fuel for is appealing.

        • Euphemistic on 06/08/2024 - 05:20
          +1

          Drinking the fossil fuel kool aid much?

        • smartazz104 on 07/08/2024 - 07:18

          Well buying an EV now makes more sense if it pisses of this man child.

          • Kmartsecurityguard on 07/08/2024 - 08:14
            -3

            @smartazz104: Impressive logic: spending a fortune on an oversized disposable battery with wheels just to “piss off' a stranger on the internet.

            Keep living up to the stereo type and I’ll keep parking in your charging bays.

            • Euphemistic on 07/08/2024 - 08:16

              @Kmartsecurityguard: Batteries arent disposable. They are lasting well over 10 years with very little degradation - except leaf batteries.

            • smartazz104 on 07/08/2024 - 08:55

              @Kmartsecurityguard:

              Keep living up to the stereo type

              I’ll keep parking in your charging bays

              Good on ya champ.

        • filmer on 07/08/2024 - 09:38

          I am confused with most of what you said. Anyone can charge their daily drive at home on a standard wall outlet.

          Even if the power to charge comes from coal (less and less each year) it's still vastly more efficient than using petrol.

          Batteries are recyclable and don't just die after x years.

          Your only 'point' is the fact that fast charging on long drives is no cheaper than petrol, and adds a 30-45 min stop every 4 hours..

          • Euphemistic on 07/08/2024 - 17:41

            @filmer:

            I am confused with most of what you said.

            Anti EV and renewable energy types tend to not make solid arguments. Its no wonder youre confused.

            • filmer on 08/08/2024 - 10:55

              @Euphemistic: Then they'll talk about how hydrogen is the way forward, even though hydrogen production isn't remotely close to green currently.

              • Euphemistic on 08/08/2024 - 11:53

                @filmer: And also having no idea how large the tanks need to be for a vehicle to have a reasonable range.

    • changyang1230 on 05/08/2024 - 13:22
      +2

      My free spreadsheet projects and answers this very question (you can choose to fund with cash vs NL).

      https://www.reddit.com/r/AusFinance/s/VHJ25VpNKu

    • Ryanek on 06/08/2024 - 09:19

      It's not always about "breaking even". People will pay extra to get the latest technology and safety features of a modem car.

      Suggesting a diesel instead of an EV is quite the leap though. Not in the same ball park at all.

      • [Deactivated] on 06/08/2024 - 11:08

        Didn’t know they stopped producing diesels in the 90s. Surely you can buy a new petrol or diesel with the same features for $20k less than a Tesla.

  • superuser on 04/08/2024 - 23:06

    Test drive once more.

  • wiltonson on 05/08/2024 - 05:41

    Model Y RWD. Best all rounder. Also very efficient which means less charging time and smaller bill too

  • cheesecactus on 05/08/2024 - 08:13
    +2

    Considered an MG ZS EV? 10yr warranty and $35k

  • krisj on 05/08/2024 - 08:21
    +5

    I own a Tesla M Y and love it. Just completed a road trip from Melbourne -> Sydney -> Brisbane. Autopilot is grate for long trips. BYD does not have autopilot.

    • juns on 05/08/2024 - 08:59
      +2

      That can't be right. I'm very sure autopilot is just a fancy name for Traffic Aware Cruise Control and pretty sure BYD would have it as well.

      What I love about my model Y is the autosteer (which is just a fancy name for lane assist) which I also believe BYD would also have.

      • Carpe Diem on 05/08/2024 - 09:05

        But Tesla FSD is coming here soon, whereby it will not be just highways but city streets as well.
        It won't be fully autonomous i.e. still needs a human to oversee but this has a profound impact on the driving experience.

        • juns on 05/08/2024 - 09:15

          They are currently focusing HW4 and said further optimisation is required for latest FSD to work on HW3 (which is okay if you're buying a new tesla right now).

          I wouldn't hold my breath since I am on HW3. Not to mention they have to tweak it for RHD.

          • Carpe Diem on 05/08/2024 - 20:57

            @juns: I think there is decent chance it arrives here in the next 12 months, max.
            All US Tesla's have access to FSD atm (even HW 3) just not the very latest version.

            I'm expecting global rollout Some of Europe, China & here, soooon :)

            • juns on 05/08/2024 - 21:07

              @Carpe Diem: You are correct that HW3 in US has FSD. But not the latest FSD 12.5

              Elon musk promised 10 days from 30 July that it will run on HW3. But again, I don't think he is good with time estimation.

              All I am saying is, they are now shifting focus to train latest FSD only in latest hardware and takes a while to support older hardware and that's only in US. Matter will get worse when HW5 is released.

              Highly doubtful people here with RHD Tesla HW3 will ever get latest FSD.

              All that said, I am not complaining about my Tesla. I bought it knowing I will likely never get the FSD and knowing my hardware will at some point stop receiving updates.

              Don't get me wrong, they are a great piece of hardware, but I'm saying all this to set expectation for potential Tesla buyer.

              • Carpe Diem on 06/08/2024 - 11:13

                @juns: I'm assuming the OP is after a new car & so that will come with a HW4.

                Only matters, if they've buying 2nd hand, whereby it would be HW3, which I still think is realistic over the next 12 months.

        • aedeau on 05/08/2024 - 10:17
          +5

          "coming here soon*"

          *elon time.

        • ATangk on 05/08/2024 - 12:31
          +1

          FSD for a subscription. No thanks.

        • serpserpserp on 05/08/2024 - 18:24

          But Tesla FSD is coming here soon

          Will it get here before or after Apple carplay and Android Auto?

      • krisj on 05/08/2024 - 15:49
        +2

        Not really. As far as I know, BYD's cruise control cannot automatically steer the car; it only adjusts the speed.

        Tesla's Autopilot, on the other hand, can safely steer the car, except at junctions, roundabouts, and traffic lights. If you have the advanced Autopilot package like I do, the car can change lanes (or suggest lane changes) on highways as needed, similar to how a human driver would. Just like autopilot software on an airplane, Tesla's Autopilot is a companion to the human driver, not a replacement. With these features, driving on highways becomes much easier.

        • juns on 05/08/2024 - 16:14

          As far as I know, BYD's cruise control cannot automatically steer the car; it only adjusts the speed.

          I don't think that's true. They have what I believe is called "Lane Keeping Assist", that being said, how well it is implemented compared to Tesla, is something I don't know about.

          advanced Autopilot package

          That is a good point, however that is an additional 5k for a feature you pay for (and I know it also includes some other extra stuff like autopark and summon but in my 3 months trial the autopark sucks). That being said, you can't even pay for it even if you want it in a BYD.

          • krisj on 05/08/2024 - 21:54

            @juns: BYD atto assist cannot steer the car. It can only give a warning to the driver by shaking the steering wheel when the car goes out of the lane. Tesla autopilot can actually drive the car itself as I described above.

            • juns on 05/08/2024 - 21:58

              @krisj: I might be wrong here, but I was under the impression what you described is their "Lane Departure Warning", they have another thing called "Lane Keeping Assist".

              • krisj on 05/08/2024 - 23:23

                @juns: I test drove a byd atto in 2022. At least that version couldn't drive itself. I've never seen any youtube video or web site to suggest otherwise. May be I am wrong here.

                • juns on 06/08/2024 - 08:20

                  @krisj: Ok, I think I'm wrong, tried looking in YouTube. Their Lane Keeping Assist does keep you in the lane but it cancels itself (like no warning whatsoever!) on some slight bend. Definitely much worse than Tesla's Autosteer.

                  • noicegarry on 07/08/2024 - 12:51

                    @juns: I've recently bought a Sealion 6 and can confirm the lane keep assist will keep you in the lane around bends, but probably not suited for suburban driving. I mostly use it on the freeway when I don't anticipate any complicated traffic conditions.

                    It's more of an extension to lane keep assist, than a self-driving experience.

                  • smoothymcmellow on 09/08/2024 - 09:00

                    @juns: I have the BYD seal and it definitely steers the car, there is a light that shows when it turns off, it will only really turn off when you change lanes, then come back on when you recenter in the lane. I'm not sure how the tesla differs but it works well enough to lightly hold the wheel and let it cruise

  • PropertyPig on 05/08/2024 - 08:52
    +2

    I’m also in the market for a EV. Recently hired a BYD atto when we went away and the boot space was way too small for us with a pram and one piece of luggage. It drove nicely but too small for our family. I’ve looked at a few Tesla model Y’s but have yet to test drive one. I’m going to test drive the new chery EV’s when they come out as we have a discount with them through my work. Like everyone else has said, test drive them. I’m glad I hired the BYD for a few days as it really gave me a feel for it.

    • hothed on 07/08/2024 - 09:30

      Thanks for the feedback. Im in the same boat, but i dont think a model Y would work for us either. We pack our Mazda 6 wagon to the roof!

  • ReaperX22 on 05/08/2024 - 10:13
    +2

    Model Y surely due for a refresh soon given the Model 3 has been refreshed, I would consider waiting for that, as the 3 greatly improved suspension and cabin noise isolation, at the expense of removing turning signal stalks…

    You could also consider a plug in hybrid.. Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV for example if you mostly short trip. Utilise solar for 90% of your trips without the range anxiety of pure EV

    • McSquintus on 05/08/2024 - 18:32

      Elon has said the Model Y refresh is not coming this yearbm but some may still want to wait.

  • Haha Hihi Hoho on 05/08/2024 - 10:22

    dont buy Y as Juniper is coming. i bought my blue 3 RWD in June for 63k and love it. checked out Seal, and dont really like the front look. EV5 is coming but i heard its going to be closer to 70k?

  • cashless on 05/08/2024 - 10:38
    +2

    Budget is around the $50k-$60k mark, planning to buy it outright.

    OzBargainers doing it tough

  • newbiesh on 05/08/2024 - 11:45
    +1

    outlander phev

    • IMadeYouReadThis on 06/08/2024 - 08:04
      +1

      I was very keen to buy one last year when its price was similar to Tesla Y. Now with Tesla Y significantly cheaper ($63k MY vs $75k PHEV) and with the launch of Sealion 6, it actually makes very little sense to buy Outlander. IMO!

  • BargainsForAll on 05/08/2024 - 11:57
    +1

    Does anyone suggest how big a solar panel system I should install if I get an EV? Looking at getting solar panels. We have an average 15kWh daily usage.

    • l2p10 on 05/08/2024 - 12:17
      +2

      Depends on where you live. If WA single phase your limit is 5kw anyway on solar inverter

      But the general consensus is as big as your roof and your budget can afford. Yes it's more expensive initially, but you are getting paid by the gov for the solar panels rebate. You are more just paying for the labour on extra panels, and inverter upgrade mostly only

      Level 2 charger, Byds charges at 7kw mostly. Tesla can charge at 11kw (3 phase, 7kw single phase). So if you want to cater for it, you probably want a min 13kw panel system with a 10kw inverter

      But if you planning the usual dumb or level 1 chargers, they can only charge at around 2 to 3 kW. Then 6.6kw is probably enough. This way, you likely will need grid charging for your EV anyway.

      • BargainsForAll on 05/08/2024 - 13:19
        +1

        Thanks! Will consider the options

  • punter1 on 05/08/2024 - 12:21

    Join "Shit Cars of Australia" fb group 1st b4 making decision

    • Brick Tamland on 05/08/2024 - 16:45

      I am surprised that group hasn’t self-destructed by now.

  • Oofy Doofy on 05/08/2024 - 16:01
    -1

    Don't do it.

    • Euphemistic on 05/08/2024 - 16:54
      +3

      What a well reasoned and sound point youve made. I feel much better informed now.

      • Oofy Doofy on 05/08/2024 - 19:14
        +3

        He might want to buy one, but I'm fairly certain he'll regret it. It's all relative. He may be loaded and this is just some fun. I don't have enough information.

        BUT, in general, I don't think it is a wise decision.

  • DeeTrance on 05/08/2024 - 18:24
    +1

    Not a a Tesla. They are not cool and cringe worthy

    • Carpe Diem on 06/08/2024 - 11:15
      +1

      Taste is subjective.

      Having the safest car on the road, extremely comfortable & unbeatable performance with the added bonus of FSD in the future is a no brainer.

      • Brick Tamland on 06/08/2024 - 20:20

        I think the Mercedes S class is out of their budget, it also doesn't have FSD but a better version that is capable of level 4 autonomy.

  • McSquintus on 05/08/2024 - 18:34
    +2

    A guy at my work rented a few EVs, including Cupra, a Model Y and I think BYD (don't remember the models). He went with the Model Y saying it was much better overall than the others. I'd suggest renting some out which will give you a better idea on what is actually better for you.

  • DrRalph on 05/08/2024 - 19:15
    -2

    Dont do it.

  • [Deactivated] on 06/08/2024 - 08:56
    +5

    I would recommend Tesla Model Y, which I believe is the safest car on the market. Recently, I was involved in a severe accident, but thanks to my Model Y, I walked away without major injuries.I feel grateful to have made the decision to purchase it.

  • Bumblegrum on 06/08/2024 - 09:02
    -4

    Anyone here that buys an EV that does not include a spare wheel, that is most of them has rocks in their head.

    Picture it, half way from Melbourne to Broken Hill late at night and no spare tyre and bang goes a tyre.

    I hope those EV seats are comfy it’s going to be a long wait….

    Selling cars in this country without a spare wheel should be illegal.

    • Euphemistic on 06/08/2024 - 10:43

      Kept properly inflated modern tyres very rarely go bang. Probably no more likely than a component of your ICE engine going bang and stopping orogress.

      • Bumblegrum on 08/08/2024 - 05:41

        Except you are ignoring real world hazards like potholes, debris on the road spiking a tyre etc.

        One thing EV owners find out after the purchase is the increased consumption of tyres compared to an ICE car.

        • Euphemistic on 08/08/2024 - 06:28

          No. I was saying that tyre blowouts are pretty rare - yes, even on heavily loaded vehicles. The most common issue is punctures, and you can mitigate the problems with a tyre pressure monitoring system and a can of goo.

          If you are buying a car that has to have a spare tyre because you MIGHT go on an outback tour once, you are paying to cart around a spare tyre that will likely never be used.

          If you're travelling remote highways more than twice a year its probably prudent to have a spare. PLUS you should know that remote highways and night driving are more dangerous due to animal strikes than flat tyres.

  • UFO on 06/08/2024 - 10:52
    +7

    Nearly everyone in this thread has completely missed what the OP has asked.
    The decision on whether to buy an EV has already been made, and is not the question posed. Stop sprouting your anti-EV rubbish and get with the program.

    OP, for $60k budget you won't beat the Model Y.
    Go test drive the different options (I love BYD, but they haven't got a good sized EV SUV yet)… as of today the Model Y is the best pick of the $60k bunch.

    In 12-18m there will be more to pick from from of course, but with $60k today- Model Y easily.

  • Roe Jogan on 06/08/2024 - 12:17

    clean low km second hand model 3 performance (they start from 45k for 70k kms and goes higher in price for lower km ones like below)
    https://www.carsales.com.au/cars/details/2021-tesla-model-3-… offer this guy 50k im sure they will take it

    even lower km but higher cost
    https://www.carsales.com.au/cars/details/2022-tesla-model-3-…

    • Jase83 on 06/08/2024 - 13:07
      +1

      He states he is looking at medium size SUV for family duties - a M3P is great, but doesn't really fit the requirement.

  • Jase83 on 06/08/2024 - 12:52
    +2

    Just passed 1yr ownership of base RWD Tesla Model Y. Done 21,000kms, probably 75% or so charged during the 11am-2pm Ovo free power window. Outside of that trickle charge on available solar if needed. Only done two small supercharger top ups out on the road.

    It's been a really great car for family duties, heaps of boot and frunk space for kids stuff and luggage. My wife is not techy at all and picked up everything really quickly. She doesn't use cruise control or autopilot at all (in any of our previous cars also), but does everything else via the screen no issues. Nothing at all needing follow up with Tesla. Slept in the back twice plugged in at a camp site in camp mode, was comfortable enough. Only thing I added was a 3rd party tow hitch and a vertical bike rack. I carry 4 mountain bikes multiple times a week. I still enjoy driving it every time I get in. We still have the old petrol SUV as a 2nd car and sometimes use it if going way out in the country where charging could be an issue.

    It's about 10k cheaper now than when I started my novated lease, but then I got a good interest rate which does not seem to be available anymore on leases.

    • devize on 06/08/2024 - 17:38

      What charger do you have?

      • Jase83 on 06/08/2024 - 20:19
        +1

        Tesla gen3 wall connector on on 32amp single phase circuit - so charges at 7.6kw max. In the 3hrs free period that that about 22.8kw charged of max 60kw capacity.

  • CuteWittleCorgi on 06/08/2024 - 13:34

    Tesla or nothing

  • roundnumbersonly on 06/08/2024 - 15:48

    Model Y. Wouldnt bother with BYD

  • nujee on 06/08/2024 - 18:46

    Are you in a rush OP? I'd just wait till all the Chinese brands and KIA get their act together…Q4 2024 onwards you will be spoilt for choice and watch all the manufacturer scramble to get a piece of the pie.

  • ChickenAdobo on 06/08/2024 - 21:24

    Zeekr X if you after luxury.

  • Duram on 07/08/2024 - 07:55
    -2

    20K for solar 60K for an EV to 'save' 100 dollars on petrol ROFL.

    • surg3on on 07/08/2024 - 10:31

      20k for solar? Have you looked at any Australian pricing ever?

    • Roe Jogan on 07/08/2024 - 12:28

      mate more like 6-7k for 13.2kw size

  • R4 on 07/08/2024 - 09:24
    +1

    All cars, apart from a few niche models, depreciate - why wouldn't a $40K CCP-made EV shitbox depreciate in value?

    Buy a new car, cop the depreciation - as it's always been.

  • hopper on 07/08/2024 - 10:29
    +1

    buy a new RWD tesla or used performance tesla. I would go for used performance.

  • surg3on on 07/08/2024 - 10:29

    Test drive the BYD Atto 3 and consider they dont charge extra for a lot of things. Its good value.

  • hopper on 07/08/2024 - 10:30

    telsa needs to support Car to grid option for the price they are charging :(

Login or Join to leave a comment
Login Join