Thinking about going electric in 2026? Excellent decision. The electric vehicle market has matured considerably: ranges now exceed 500 km, charging times are shrinking, and the options have never been more varied. But where to start? Here is our complete guide to choosing the electric vehicle that truly fits your needs.

1. Define your budget

The purchase price of a new electric vehicle starts at around €5,000 for a compact city car and can exceed €100,000 for a premium sedan. But the purchase price is only part of the equation. Here's what to consider:

• Government incentives: In some European countries, the ecological bonus can reach €5,000 to €7,000 depending on your income. The conversion bonus can add up to €5,000 if you scrap an old combustion vehicle.
• Usage cost: Electricity costs 3 to 5 times less than gasoline per kilometer. For 15,000 km per year, count about €350 for electricity versus €1,500 for fuel.
• Maintenance: No oil changes, no timing belt, no spark plugs, no air filter, no exhaust system. Annual maintenance is mainly limited to tires, brakes, and cabin filter. Savings: 30% to 50% compared to a combustion vehicle.
• Financing: Classic loan, long-term leasing, lease with purchase option: compare offers. Lease with purchase option is often advantageous because it includes maintenance and insurance.

2. Evaluate your required range

This is the most frequently asked question. The WLTP range announced by manufacturers is measured in the laboratory. In reality, here's what you need to know:

• Daily commutes: If you drive less than 100 km per day, a WLTP range of 300 km is more than enough. You'll charge at home overnight once or twice a week.
• Long trips: If you regularly travel between two cities 400 km apart, aim for a minimum of 500 km WLTP. Sedans like the BYD Seal (570 km) or SUVs like the XPENG G6 (525 km) are excellent choices.
• Impact of conditions: In winter, range can drop by 15% to 25% due to heating and cold batteries. On the highway at 130 km/h, expect 20% less than the WLTP cycle.

3. Choose your charging type

Charging is the second key criterion. Three options are available to you:

• Home charging (recommended solution): Installation of a 7.4 kW wallbox by an IRVE-certified electrician. Cost: €500 to €1,200 (with a €300 tax credit). A full charge takes 6 to 8 hours — perfect overnight. You wake up every morning with a full battery.
• Public charging stations: Thousands of stations are available in parking lots, shopping centers, and on public streets. Typical power output: 7 to 22 kW. Convenient for charging while you shop or during your workday.
• Highway fast charging: DC 150-350 kW stations allow you to go from 20% to 80% in 20 to 35 minutes. Ideal for long trips. In the time it takes to have a coffee, you're back on the road.

4. Compare models by category

Here is our selection of the best electric vehicles by category in 2026:

• Sedans: BYD Seal (from €23,000, range 570 km), Xiaomi SU7 (from €28,000, range 830 km), Geely Galaxy E8 (from €22,000, range 665 km)
• Compact SUVs: BYD Atto 3 Evo (from €16,000, range 630 km), Zeekr X (from €19,000, range 560 km), Lynk & Co Z20 (from €15,000, range 530 km)
• Family SUVs: XPENG G6 (from €16,000, range 525 km), BYD Sealion 7 (from €24,000, range 605 km), NIO EL6 (from €43,000, range 529 km)
• City cars: BYD Dolphin Surf (from €8,000, range 405 km), Dongfeng Box (from €9,000, range 310 km), Leapmotor T03 (from €6,000, range 265 km)

5. Think about resale

The used electric vehicle market is rapidly structuring. Electric vehicles depreciate on average 15% to 20% in the first year, then 8% to 10% per year. Premium brands (ZEEKR, BYD, MG) retain their value better. The battery is the main depreciation factor: a vehicle with a battery state of health (SOH) above 90% sells well.

6. Take a test drive

This is the essential step. Nothing beats getting behind the wheel. During your test drive at Autoluxary, test:

• Driving silence and acoustic comfort
• Acceleration responsiveness (instant torque!)
• Regenerative braking and one-pedal driving
• Ergonomics of the central screen and controls
• Visibility and driving aids

Ready to make the leap? Contact us for a personalized test drive or browse our online catalog. Our advisors support you from A to Z.