Like all drivers, seniors are drawn to the newest generation of cars, including electric vehicles. But when looking for a new car, older drivers may be more concerned about safety features, such as visibility and comfort.
“As drivers age, their physical and mental abilities, driving behaviors and crash risks all change, though age alone does not determine driving performance,” according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association. “Many features of the current system of roads, traffic signals and controls, laws, licensing practices and vehicles were not designed to accommodate older drivers.”
For those who do not consider themselves too technology savvy, there should also be a level of comfort with some of the new and different bells and whistles offered in EVs, as well as an understanding of charging and range.
When it comes to electric cars for seniors, “it’s important to road test the technology as much as the car,” said AAA’s Car Doctor John Paul. “As an example, the Tesla Model 3 is 100% touch screen, and that may be a bit overwhelming for some folks. Other than that, buyers should look for easy entry and exit, a lack of blind spots and technology to make up for age-related issues.”
The lower operational costs and minimal maintenance requirements also attract older drivers.
So, is an EV the best car for retirement? It depends on the driver.
EVs for Seniors
When buying a car, seniors tend to look for affordability, comfort, ease of use and practicality. With these qualities in mind, we reviewed information from several sources, including the AAA Car Guide, to determine some of the best electric and hybrid options.
One EV that checks all the boxes is the Nissan Leaf, a great small electric car for seniors. While it’s one of the older electric models still on the market, the Leaf remains popular, in part, because of its low base price of $28,140. The range is about 212 miles, which is perfect for retirees who only drive locally. Plus, the interior looks more like a gas-powered engine car than a spaceship.
The Kona Electric SUV,which starts under $33,000, is Hyundai’s most affordable EV and another top EV for seniors, although its availability is limited. Owners will love the quiet, roomy interior, its easy maneuverability and its remote smart parking assist and blind-spot view monitor. On the downside, Kona’s range is between 200 and 261 miles and charges more slowly than other models.
For those not ready to say goodbye to their cruising days, consider the Ford Mustang Mach-E. With a 320-mile range and room for five passengers, it’s time to hit the open road. Relive your glory days for less than $40,000.
The Kia EV6 crossover SUV combines style and utility for $42,600. With ample room for passengers and cargo, the most basic model has a range of 232 miles. Large display screens are user-friendly and the EV6 has numerous driver-assist features, including lane-keeping alerts and forward collision warnings.
Hybrid Options
Ranking high in the AAA Car Guide is the Honda Accord Hybrid Touring, a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick+, which also scores points for its affordability and maneuverability. The base price is under $40,000 and the car averages 44 miles to the gallon. The Accord also offers a spacious interior, although there are two drawbacks: A high deck in the rear can limit visibility and a sloping ceiling makes entering and exiting in the rear a bit challenging.
The Toyota Camry Hybrid offers seniors the comfort of a traditional sedan featuring an easy ride with the added benefit of a hybrid drivetrain, which lifts gas mileage to 52 miles per gallon. With a base price under $29,000, it is a solid value.
Don’t Overlook Old Favorites
Seniors looking for a used EV should consider the much-revered Chevy Bolt EV, which was discontinued in 2023. Kelly Blue Book puts the price of a 2023 Bolt at $26,188. The Bolt can travel about 259 miles on one charge. And for those who want to wait for a new model, the upgraded Bolt is scheduled to be on the market in 2025, available as either a hatchback or SUV and with a higher range.
AAA’s Recommendation: Whether you own an electric vehicle or a gas-powered car is up to you – and you should consider lots of factors in making that choice. No matter what type of vehicle you’re choosing, we recommend visiting a dealership, test driving one, and asking as many questions as possible to make an informed decision.
