The Electric Cars You’ll Soon Be Able to Drive: A 2026 Forecast
Electric vehicles are not just a distant concept; they are arriving sooner than you think. As automakers race toward an all-electric future, buyers are waiting for the next wave of models to hit showrooms, ranging from hyper-performance supercars to affordable electric trucks.
If you’re thinking about buying an electric vehicle, understanding what’s coming next is critical. The market is changing rapidly, and knowing what’s on the horizon—from performance EVs to practical family haulers—could save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
Let’s dive into the electric cars that aren’t available yet but are already generating significant buzz in the automotive industry.
2026 Electric Vehicle Showcase
Alfa Romeo Giulia EV (Expected: 2028)
The legendary Giulia sport sedan is set for a complete overhaul, moving to an all-electric powertrain. Alfa Romeo has confirmed that the electric Giulia will come in three flavors: a base model around 350 hp, a Veloce variant pushing closer to 800 hp, and the top-tier Quadrifoglio delivering over 1,000 hp.
This powerhouse will ride on Stellantis’s STLA Large platform, featuring 800-volt, ultra-rapid charging capabilities and an estimated driving range of up to 500 miles. While pure electric performance is the focus, rumors suggest the new Giulia might also be offered with combustion engine options, potentially blending old-school thrills with next-generation technology.
What This Means for You: If you’re considering a high-performance sedan and want the latest tech, keep this on your radar. However, with a 2028 release, you have plenty of time to shop for current EV models.
Should You Buy, Wait, or Rent/Invest? Wait, especially if you are attracted to extreme performance. The power figures suggest extreme performance pricing; you’ll be paying a premium. Instead, consider current high-performance EV options or lease a high-performance ICE car until then.
Best Financial Strategies: If you’re a performance enthusiast, waiting might secure you a cutting-edge EV with massive horsepower. However, for budget-conscious buyers, this is far off. Consider leasing current models to keep costs low.
Alfa Romeo Stelvio EV (Expected: 2027)
Before the Giulia arrives, Alfa Romeo will introduce a new electric Stelvio SUV. This model will share the STLA Large platform with the sedan and will also offer electric and hybrid powertrains. Unfortunately, the electric version has been delayed and is not expected to launch in the U.S. until 2027.
What This Means for You: Buyers looking for a stylish, high-performance electric SUV from a luxury Italian brand should watch this space.
Should You Buy, Wait, or Rent/Invest? Wait if you are committed to Alfa Romeo. If you need a luxury electric SUV sooner, the BMW iX3 or Genesis GV60 are available now.
Alpine EVs (Expected: 2030)
Alpine, the high-performance division of Renault, plans to enter the U.S. market later this decade. Initially spearheaded by the compact A390 fastback crossover, the company’s plans have been adjusted due to import tariffs. The launch, originally set for 2027, is now expected around 2030, possibly featuring the A110 electric sports car and a larger SUV alongside the original Alpine vision.
What This Means for You: For sports car enthusiasts looking for European flair and high performance, this is a future prospect.
Should You Buy, Wait, or Rent/Invest? Wait. Alpine is still building its lineup and has yet to establish a strong U.S. presence.
Audi TT EV (Expected: 2027)
Audi is developing a new electric sports car based on the radical Concept C. Roughly the size of a Porsche 911, this EV is anticipated to sit between the TT and R8 in terms of performance, heralding a new design language for the brand.
The concept highlights a return to physical controls and features a retractable display. Details remain limited, but the concept is rear-wheel-drive and expected to share a platform with the upcoming Porsche 718 EV. Audi has confirmed a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive variant will also be available. The RWD concept weighs a claimed 3,726 pounds.
What This Means for You: This is significant news for Audi loyalists and fans of the TT or R8.
Should You Buy, Wait, or Rent/Invest? Wait. If you’re interested in a German electric sports car, your options today include the Porsche Taycan or Tesla Model S, both of which offer more range and horsepower.
Best Financial Strategies: If you’re considering a high-performance sports car, you might want to wait for this unique RWD option. However, compare the pricing and availability of current models like the Porsche Taycan—you may save time and money.
Bentley EV SUV (Expected: 2027)
Bentley will reveal its first electric car, an ultra-luxury urban SUV, in 2026. Positioned below the Bentayga, this “compact” SUV still boasts imposing dimensions at nearly 197 inches long. A concept called the EXP 15 previews the styling, featuring a bold, squared-off front end and a decadent interior.
The Bentley EV will likely use the same platform as the Porsche Cayenne EV. Sales are expected to begin in early 2027. Based on trademark filings, we believe it will be called the Barnato, named after one of Bentley’s legendary racers from the 1920s. Future Bentley EV plans have been pushed back until at least 2030.
What This Means for You: For buyers in the ultra-luxury segment, this is the next big thing from a legacy brand.
Should You Buy, Wait, or Rent/Invest? Wait. You will get a modern luxury EV from Bentley. If you need something now, consider current Mercedes-Benz electric SUVs.
BMW i3 (Expected: Late 2026)
The new BMW i3 arrives as the electric counterpart to the long-running 3-Series. It sports BMW’s new design language and rides on the Neue Klasse platform shared with the iX3 SUV. An 800-volt architecture supports ultra-fast charging up to 400 kW, while a 109-kWh battery promises an estimated 440-mile range.
The i3 will launch in the U.S. as the i3 50 xDrive, with 463 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque. The interior features a minimalist design with a thin display along the base of the windshield and a trapezoidal central touchscreen. Sales begin before the end of 2026.
What This Means for You: A more affordable, smaller luxury electric sedan from BMW.
Should You Buy, Wait, or Rent/Invest? Wait. If you’re looking for a BMW electric sedan, compare this to the Audi A6 e-tron or Mercedes-Benz C-class EV.
BMW iM3 (Expected: 2027)
The upcoming BMW i3 will also spawn the first all-electric M3. Expected to be called the iM3, it will use BMW’s next-generation EV platform with 800-volt architecture. A quad-motor setup with two motors per axle should produce over 600 hp and deliver brutal acceleration. The front motors can be decoupled, and BMW is also planning simulated engine noises to enhance driver engagement, sampling various historic M V8s and V10s.
What This Means for You: A high-performance electric M3 is finally here.
Should You Buy, Wait, or Rent/Invest? Wait. If you desire a truly high-performance electric car, this is it. For now, consider current high-end EVs like the Tesla Model S.
BMW iX3 (Expected: Summer 2026)
The BMW iX3 arrives as the electric counterpart to the popular X3 SUV, sporting a sleek, unorthodox design with a thinner interpretation of the iconic kidney grille. The U.S. version will feature a 463 hp dual-motor setup, achieving 62 mph in 4.9 seconds. A 109-kWh battery is expected to provide around 400 miles of range and support 400-kW charging.
Inside, the iX3 features a new dashboard where a thin strip along the windshield serves as a massive 43-inch, full-width head-up display, replacing a traditional gauge cluster. A 17.9-inch touchscreen handles infotainment. Sales will start in the summer of 2026.
What This Means for You: The electric X3 arrives for summer 2026, offering high performance and a radical new design.
Should You Buy, Wait, or Rent/Invest? Buy if you need an electric luxury SUV soon. However, wait to see the Mercedes-Benz GLC-class EV or
