10 Discontinued EVs That Should Make A Comeback

The automotive industry’s shift towards sustainable mobility has been punctuated by the evolution and proliferation of electric vehicles (EVs) across the market. From pioneering models to the latest technological advancements, electric vehicles have made significant strides in capturing consumer interest and reshaping the transportation landscape. This collection of narratives illuminates the journey of various EV models from their inception, highlighting the challenges, successes, and pivotal moments that have defined their presence in the market.

Each EV tale spans different brands and eras and encapsulates a unique narrative of innovation, adaptation, and strategic decision-making within the electric vehicle realm. From initial introductions to moments of discontinuation or transformation, these stories offer insights into the dynamic interplay between technological advancements, market dynamics, and consumer preferences in the ever-evolving electric vehicle industry.

Whether through pioneering breakthroughs, challenges in market reception, or strategic realignments, these accounts paint a vivid picture of the electric vehicle landscape’s evolution, showcasing the industry’s continuous quest for sustainable and efficient mobility solutions.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including Car and Driver, the manufacturers themselves, and TopGear to provide the most comprehensive information possible.

1 Chevrolet Bolt EV

Chevrolet has decided to discontinue its most budget-friendly electric vehicle, the Bolt – at least for the time being. The initial generation of the Bolt made its debut in 2016, and an updated version rolled out in 2022, showcasing a striking redesign and incorporating cutting-edge technology. This transformation significantly enhanced the appeal of this compact EV.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Chevrolet and Car and Driver)

Despite the current halt in production, there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon. Chevrolet has assured consumers of a forthcoming Bolt built on its advanced Ultium EV platform, promising a next-level driving experience. However, the exact debut date for this new Bolt model remains uncertain, leaving eager enthusiasts and potential buyers anticipating its eventual release.

2 Toyota RAV4 EV

In 1997, a limited version of the first-generation RAV4 emerged, initially offered exclusively to fleet customers. This iteration was equipped with a nickel metal hydride battery, bestowing upon it a range of 95 miles. Its synchronous permanent-magnet motors generated 67 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque, reflecting Toyota’s early steps into the realm of electric vehicles.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Toyota)

However, it wasn’t until 2002 that Toyota extended the opportunity for public purchase of the RAV4, managing to sell a modest 328 copies before discontinuing the model shortly after that. The electric SUV made a resounding comeback with its second generation in 2012. Toyota reintroduced the RAV4 to the market, selling approximately 3,700 units between 2012 and 2014. This time, it housed a 41.8-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery, providing an enhanced range of 103 miles.

Although Toyota has entered the EV market with the bZ4X, it stands as the only electric vehicle in the company’s range. In contrast, several of Toyota’s primary rivals have made considerable progress within the EV sector. Even high-end automotive manufacturers such as BMW, Audi, and Porsche have adapted to the evolving landscape by incorporating electric vehicle models into their product offerings.

Its motor performance surged to 154 horsepower and an impressive 220 pound-feet of torque, reflecting substantial improvements in power and efficiency, aligning with the evolving landscape of electric vehicle technology.

3 Honda Fit EV

Following its debut as a concept car at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show, Honda moved forward by actualizing the electric Fit, offering a limited production run of this subcompact gem from 2013 to 2015, with a mere 1,100 examples rolling off the assembly line.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Honda and Car and Driver)

During its inaugural production year, the Fit boasted a 20 kWh lithium-ion battery that powered it to an impressive range of 132 miles, aligning with the evolving landscape of electric vehicles and catering to drivers seeking a practical yet eco-conscious commuting option. Despite its limited production, the electric Fit stood as a testament to Honda’s early exploration of electric mobility and its commitment to offering sustainable transportation solutions.

4 Ford Focus Electric

Ford’s venture into electric vehicles expanded with the introduction of the all-electric Focus, making it their second foray into this market segment, following the earlier release of the Ranger. Spanning from 2011 to 2018, the electric Focus gained traction and popularity, selling more than 9,000 units across the United States during its run.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Ford and TopGear)

The 2017 model year was a significant milestone for the Focus EV, showcasing advancements in battery technology and range capabilities. Equipped with a 33.5-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery, it offered an impressive EPA-estimated range of 115 miles. This range reflected a substantial improvement, providing drivers with increased confidence in their daily commuting and travel needs without compromising on sustainability.

The electric Focus stood out as a practical and eco-friendly option in the evolving landscape of electric vehicles, aligning with Ford’s commitment to offering efficient and environmentally conscious transportation solutions to its consumers.

5 BMW i3

Unveiled in 2011, BMW introduced its inaugural mass-produced electric car through the hatchback model, marking the brand’s significant foray into electric vehicle manufacturing.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from BMW and TopGear)

By 2021, the latest iteration of this vehicle offered an extended range, boasting a rating of 175 miles on a 42.2-kilowatt-hour battery. Notably, customers had the option to equip the i3 with an inline two-cylinder gasoline-powered range extender, enhancing its versatility and mitigating range anxiety for longer journeys.

However, in a pivotal move, BMW announced in June 2021, signaling the discontinuation of the i3 in the United States. This decision marked a shift in the company’s electric vehicle strategy, potentially paving the way for future newer, more advanced electric vehicle offerings.

6 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive

Based on the BlueZERO concept car, the German automaker introduced the subcompact multipurpose vehicle known as the Mercedes-Benz B250e, available from 2014 to 2017, designated with the B250e model name.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Mercedes-Benz and TopGear)

Powered by a 28-kilowatt-hour Tesla-built battery, this vehicle delivered 134 horsepower and an impressive 228 pound-feet of torque. It showcased a range of up to 115 miles on a single charge, offering a blend of efficiency and performance in its segment.

However, in 2017, the company made a strategic decision to discontinue the B250e, redirecting its focus towards the EQ line of electric vehicles. This shift reflected the brand’s commitment to advancing its electric vehicle offerings, potentially exploring more innovative technologies and design approaches in the burgeoning electric vehicle market.

7 Fiat 500e

Unveiled for the first time at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show, an electric iteration of the diminutive hatchback made its debut. Sales commenced in the U.S., starting in California in 2013 and extending to Oregon in 2014, marking Fiat’s entry into the electric vehicle market.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Fiat and TopGear)

Fueled by a 42-kilowatt-hour liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery, this electric model offered a commendable range of 186 miles, complemented by a motor generating 118 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. These specifications reflected Fiat’s commitment to combining efficiency with spirited performance in their electric offering.

Despite the success of its electric 500, Fiat announced in 2019 that it would discontinue its entire 500 lineup in the U.S. This decision signified a shift in the brand’s strategy, potentially signaling a reevaluation of Fiat’s product lineup in the American market amidst changing consumer preferences and market dynamics.

8 Smart Fortwo ED

Making its debut on roads in 2007, the electric iteration of the microcar found its way into the American market in 2011, undergoing a trial run across major U.S. cities.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Smart and Car and Driver)

Powered by a first-generation 60 kilowatt-hour battery, this electric marvel offered a practical range of 84 miles. Its motor delivered 80 horsepower and an impressive 118 pound-feet of torque, emphasizing efficiency without compromising on performance in its compact design.

However, two years after phasing out the gasoline-powered version from the U.S. market in 2017, Smart made the official decision to depart from the U.S. sales space. This move marked a significant shift for Smart in the American automotive market, possibly hinting at a strategic realignment or plans to explore different market segments or technologies.

9 Volkswagen e-Golf

Initially launched in the European market and later arriving in the United States by the end of 2014, Volkswagen introduced an all-electric version of its compact car, maintaining production until 2020.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Volkswagen and Car and Driver)

In its 2019 iteration, this electric variant featured a motor delivering 125 miles of range, showcasing the evolution of Volkswagen’s commitment to electric mobility. The motor’s output reached a commendable 134 horsepower, blending efficiency with a notable performance level that catered to diverse driving needs.

Despite its discontinuation in 2020, this electric compact car left an imprint on Volkswagen’s journey toward sustainable mobility, contributing to the brand’s exploration and development of electric vehicle technology during that period.

10 Honda Clarity EV

Honda introduced the all-electric variant of the Clarity alongside its fuel cell and plug-in hybrid counterparts in 2017. Propelled by a 25.5-kilowatt-hour battery, this electric model achieved an electric range of 89 miles, contributing to Honda’s commitment to environmentally conscious mobility solutions.

Performance Specifications (2018 model)

(Data was collected from Honda and Car and Driver)

However, facing stiff competition and acknowledging the industry’s evolving landscape, Honda made a strategic decision in 2019 to phase out the electric Clarity model while retaining the fuel cell and plug-in hybrid variants. This move reflected Honda’s adaptive approach, ensuring the lineup aligns with market demands and technological advancements while continuing to offer a diverse range of eco-friendly options to its customers.