Why try an EV?

But making the change is not always as easy as, dare we say it, flicking a switch. There are some new considerations compared to an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle, like how to keep the vehicle charged, how far it will drive on a single charge and how different it is to drive.

These aren’t easy to experience in a half-hour test drive at the local showroom.

SIXT, a partner of NRMA, now offers a deal called "My EV Experience" to allow drivers rent an electric vehicle at a great price before making a decision on whether to buy or lease one.

Currently, SIXT has seven EVs available to hire. They include the BYD Atto 3, the Tesla Model 3, the Model Y, the upmarket BMW IX3 and the sporty Kia EV6 are also available at certain locations.

There are various models in all states, with availability of certain models depending on location.

Four – the Tesla Model 3, Tesla Model Y, BYD Atto 3 and BMW iX3 - are available through the My EV Experience exclusively to My NRMA members. Members can access this offer by going to the My NRMA app, tapping on the Benefits icon at the bottom of the screen, then selecting the My perks tab.

Here’s what you can expect from each of SIXT’s EVs – and which variants are available to buy for what price in Australia.

The BYD Atto 3 has already proven itself in the Australian EV market thanks to a combination of high tech, price and availability.

The Atto 3 Standard Range variant starts at $48,011, while the Extended Range version is available for $51,011 before on-road costs.

Under the hood, both the standard and extended models of the Atto 3 are equipped with a 150kW electric motor, delivering a peak torque of 310Nm.

This enables a brisk acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.3 seconds – quick by traditional vehicle standards and an experience you will want to try for yourself. The standard Atto 3 houses a 50.1kWh battery, whereas the extended variant boosts battery capacity to 60.4kWh.

In terms of driving range, the extended model of the BYD Atto 3 has a WLTP-certified range of 420km, ensuring ample distance for longer journeys. This range, for its price point, represents some of the best value for money on the market.

Reviewers have commended the Atto 3 for its generous equipment list that adds to its appeal. However, NRMA reviewer Tim Pomroy said, “the Atto 3 falls behind its peers, with on-road manners more suited to the city,” noting that the regenerative braking is wanting.

Overall, the BYD Atto 3 offers a balance of power, range, and affordability, wrapped in a package that's both practical and enjoyable to drive – and is well worth trying for yourself.

The Tesla Model 3 is undeniably the sleek embodiment of electric innovation and minimalism globally and locally. In Australia, it now starts at AU$61,900 for a rear-wheel-drive variant and goes up to $71,900 for a long-range dual motor variant.

Starting in 2024, a newly designed “Highland” model will arrive on Australian shores so keep this in mind when hiring. It is not possible to order a performance variant currently in Australia currently.

That said, the Tesla Model 3 is one of the most efficient EVs on the market, delivering excellent range for the lowest electricity cost.

It offers a compelling WLTP range of up to 629km in its long-range format (keeping in mind this is a figure based on standardised testing based on a mix of combined city and highway driving.)

The 2024 Model 3 delivers a punch with up to 340kW of power and 493Nm of torque in its long range format and up to 194kW/340Nm in its single-motor setup, blending efficiency with exhilarating performance.

Reviewers praise the Model 3's crisp acceleration and poised handling, and its safety features and Autopilot capabilities further cement its appeal among EV enthusiasts. NRMA reviewer Tim Pomroy missed the presence of a heads-up display but commended its regenerative braking.

The Tesla Model Y presents an attractive blend of performance and utility and starts at $65,400 for the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) variant, $78,400 for a long-range variant and $91,400 for the performance variant.

The RWD features a 60kWh (57.5 kWh usable) lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery offering up to 455km WLTP driving range, while its 255kW motor outputs a not-to-be-sniffed-at maximum 420Nm torque.

The Model Y Long Range is powered by a dual-motor setup with a 78kWh (75kWh usable) NMC battery, generating 378kW power and 493Nm torque. It offers 533km WLTP range, combining performance with extended range.

At the top-of-the-range, the Model Y Performance also boasts a dual-motor AWD system, this time outputting 413kW of power with maximum 660Nm of torque. Its 82kWh (76kWh usable) battery offers up to 514km driving range, and it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds.

Automotive journalists have commended the Model Y’s smooth handling and spacious interior, citing its balance between agility and comfort. NRMA reviewer Kris Ashton praised its high-tech interfaces, roomy interior, comfortable seating and best-in-class energy efficiency, but found the ride quality and steering wanting.

The Kia EV6 landed in Australia in 2022 in two single-motor variants (the Air and a GT Line) and one dual motor GT Line variant, boasting the first locally tuned driving dynamics of any EV from Kia.

Granted, at the time the only other EV Kia sold was the e-Niro - but it has also paved the way for the locally tuned EV9, the only seven-seater EV currently on sale in Australia.

As for the EV6, the base model Air RWD starts at approximately AU$67,990. It boasts a 77.4 kWh battery, along with all other variants – this makes it somewhat unique in the EV market in that the cheapest variant is also the one with the most range - a not unimpressive 528 kilometres WLTP.

The single-motor GT Line takes it up a notch, dishing out 239kW power and a hefty 605Nm torque, while delivering 484km WLTP range, while the GT-Line AWD offers up to 239kW and 605Nm of torque, and 424km WLTP range.

Critics laud the EV6’s rapid acceleration and responsive handling, complementing its eco-friendly credentials. The EV6's modern interior, featuring sustainable materials, and its sleek, aerodynamic design further enhance its appeal.

Additionally, its 800V electrical architecture enables ultra-fast charging, adding to its practicality for Australian consumers.

The BMW iX3 was priced from $114,900 when it first arrived in 2021, merging luxury with a 74 kWh battery that offered a WLTP range of approximately 460 kilometres.

It is available in now in the one variant but with two trims – the M Sport and the M Sport Pro. The introduction of the “entry-level” M Sport brought the starting price down to $89,100 before on-roads, broadening its appeal somewhat.

While it is certainly not BMW’s cheapest EV – the German carmaker has recently introduced a slew of EVs that avoid a bloated luxury car tax – it offers up many if not all the tech, safety and EV-related goodness that BMW can muster.

Under the hood, it delivers 210 kW of power and 400 Nm of torque, providing a smooth yet responsive driving experience.

Reviewers often praise its regenerative braking system and adaptive suspension for contributing to a comfortable ride, and highlight the iX3’s refined interior and impressive infotainment system.

NRMA reviewer Kris Ashton placed it in his “Best Cars in 2022,” noting that it "it looks good inside and out and provides a true sense of luxury.”

However, the absence of all-wheel drive, a deviation from BMW's traditional SUV offerings, has been met with criticism.

SIXT includes free charging on the Chargefox network when you hire one of its EVs. When you pick up the car, SIXT will give you an RFID card or fob which allows you to activate charging at Chargefox chargers for free.

A Type 2 cable and “trickle charger” that can be plugged into a standard power point are also included, for use in situations where an AC charger may not have a tethered cable, or if you want to charge at home.

Another big plus is the ability to return the car with a low battery – removing the stress of finding a charger close to the return point.