Tesla is on schedule to introduce its ‘affordable’ vehicle in the first half of 2025, which is unofficially referred to as the Tesla Model Q. While details are under wraps, prices are expected to begin between $30,000 and $35,000 in the U.S. Tesla’s minimalist and spacious design, Supercharger network, and optional Full Self-Driving (FSD) are expected to be the highlights, but competitors are ready with strong global offerings to overshadow it.
We will be introducing several new products throughout 2025. We are still on track to launch a more affordable model in the first half of 2025, and we’ll continue to expand our lineup from there.
Vaibhav Taneja, Tesla’s CFO, at the company’s Q4 and Full Year 2024 Financial Results on January 29, 2025
Here are 9 potential competitors that I think the Model Q needs to watch out for in America and globally:
1. Next-gen Chevy Bolt EUV
Expected to start at around USD 30,000, GM has confirmed that the next-gen Bolt will be introduced for MY2026, refreshed on an updated BEV2 platform using affordable LFP batteries. The new Bolt, which will come only in the EUV body style, is expected to compete with the Model Q’s premium trims, offering improvements over the first-gen car including an Android-based infotainment system, Heat Pump, quicker charging, and around 260 miles of EPA-est. range.
The 2026 Bolt will offer the same value as the original Bolt and much more, and it will be a money maker for us.
Mark Reuss, President of General Motors at GM’s 2024 Investor Day on October 8, 2024
2. Jeep Renegade EV
Last year, Jeep confirmed that it will introduce a budget EV in the U.S. The model in question is the next-gen Renegade EV, which is expected to launch in 2027, riding on the STLA Small platform. In its highest spec, it should offer a dual motor system with around 200 hp, and battery options including LFP or NMC. Although the base targets under $25,000, higher trims with extended range and premium features could directly challenge the Model Q in price and capability.
For the small and compact SUV segments, we have the all-new Renegade that we are analyzing and working strongly in product development, that will be shown with a variant pure-BEV, just below USD 25,000, those are coming.
Antonio Filosa, Brand Chief Executive Officer of Jeep, at the Stellantis Investor Day on June 13, 2024
3. Ford low-cost crossover from Skunkworks
Ford is developing a low-cost vehicle platform through its dedicated skunkworks team based in California. The first vehicle, an electric midsize pickup truck, has been announced for 2027. The low-cost platform will spawn “multiple vehicle styles” and is expected to present a low-cost crossover for the American market. Higher trims offering larger batteries, premium features like BlueCruise and AWD, could climb to $35,000, which would compete closely on the Model Q’s versatility and range.
With a globally competitive electric vehicle cost structure, the platform is designed with minimal complexity to scale quickly by underpinning multiple vehicle styles for both retail and commercial customers.
From Ford’s broadened electrification strategy announcement made on August 21, 2024
4. Honda “0” Series entry-level EV
Honda’s “0” Series EVs will be deployed next year starting with a high-end SUV and sedan. However, the company has confirmed that it will generate vehicles for the lower segments. Nikkei reported that its entry-level product would be built in the U.S., likely at Honda’s new EV manufacturing hub located in Ohio. We’re expecting Honda’s entry crossover to drive 250 miles (EPA-est.) on a single charge, and offer AWD capability, which should match the Model Q’s high-end variants in features and range.
5. Kia EV3
The Kia EV3, a compact crossover, has been confirmed for the U.S. market. This 4.3-meter compact SUV, built on a dedicated front-wheel drive EV platform, sports vertical LED lights, triple-screen panel, and a 0.26 Cd drag coefficient despite its boxy silhouette. We’re expecting a 250-mile EPA range, and a starting price of under $35,000 here in the U.S., targeting young buyers with style and tech. We expect to see the EV3 at Kia’s U.S. dealers in 2026.
6. VW ID.2 X
Volkswagen’s ID.2 SUV arrives at European dealers in 2026, evolving from the ID.2all concept with a base price near €30,000 ($32,767) and an expected WLTP range of 265 miles. Premium trims, offering enhanced batteries, and bigger motors and screens, should align with the Model Q’s upper price range.
“The final model in the line-up – the VW ID.2X – will be unveiled at the IAA in September,” CEO Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen Passenger Cars, confirmed on Linkedin in February 2025. The ID.2X hasn’t been confirmed for the U.S., but it’s evident that VW’s local office is watching this model’s developments.
7. Skoda Epiq
Skoda’s Epiq SUV will be introduced in the EU market alongside the VW ID.2X in 2026, sharing its platform and features. Slotting beneath the Elroq, the top variants, delivering about 249 miles of WLTP range, could reach €33,000 ($36,044), matching the Model Q’s higher trims. Skoda’s reputation for practicality and spacious interiors (17.3 cu.ft) strengthens its competitive position against Tesla’s entry.
8. Toyota Urban Cruiser EV
Toyota’s Urban Cruiser EV, which will be launched later this year in Europe, aligns closely with Suzuki’s eVitara. Built on a new BEV platform, it features a bold “Urban Tech” design with a “hammerhead” front and spacious interior, boasting a sliding rear seat system, a 10.25-inch display, and 106.2 in. wheelbase. It offers two lithium-iron phosphate battery options, 49 kWh (144 hp, FWD) and 61 kWh (174 hp FWD or 184 hp AWD), with AWD enhancing off-road capability. Expected to be priced from around €35,000 ($38,228), its higher trims will target the Model Q globally.
9. Citroen e-C3 Aircross
Citroen’s e-C3 Aircross, available to order in Europe, emphasizes affordability, spaciousness, and distinctive styling. The highest trim level, priced around €27,000 ($29,490), offers usable range for the urban grind but less technological sophistication compared to the future Tesla. Although U.S. availability is out of question, a fully-loaded model is a strong global competitor for buyers looking for a cheaper and more spacious alternative.
10. Renault 4 E-Tech
Unveiled at the 2024 Paris Motor Show, the Renault 4 E-Tech is a chic electric crossover blending retro charm with modern flair. This 163-in. B-segment EV, built on the AmpR Small platform, revives the 1961 Renault 4’s iconic design with a single-piece illuminated grille, circular LED headlamps, and a backlit emblem.
It offers a 249-mile WLTP range with a 52 kWh battery and 150 hp in its highest trim, alongside a dual-screen interior (10.1-inch instrument cluster, 10-inch OpenR Link touchscreen). Expected to start from under €30,000 ($32,767 USD) in France when it goes on sale later this year, I found it to be a stylish, practical urban EV.
Featured image: TopElectricSUV’s exclusive rendering of the affordable Tesla.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
