AI Pinpoints Electric Vehicles You Should Avoid

Electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly gaining traction across the country. In California alone, data from the U.S. Department of Energy shows there were over 1.2 million registered EVs by 2023. While many drivers switch to save on fuel and reduce emissions, not all electric cars are a wise investment.

With the average price of a new EV hovering around $57,734 according to Kelley Blue Book, making the wrong choice can be a costly mistake. To get a modern perspective, we turned to AI, asking ChatGPT a simple question: “Which electric vehicles should I stay away from buying?” The results were interesting, and we compared them with what the experts think.

We Asked AI: Which EVs Should Be Avoided?

Artificial intelligence can be a great starting point for research, though its answers can sometimes vary. We prompted ChatGPT to identify EVs to avoid, and here is the first list it generated:

• Chevrolet Bolt EV/EUV (2020-2022 models)
• Nissan Leaf (older models, pre-2018)
• Mazda MX-30
• Jaguar I-PACE (2019-2023)
• Mini Electric (Cooper SE)
• Fisker Ocean
• Toyota bZ4X
• Subaru Solterra (2022-2023 models)

Interestingly, when asked the exact same question a second time, ChatGPT provided a different set of recommendations:

• BMW i3
• Chevrolet Bolt EV (2017-2021)
• Nissan Leaf (older models)
• Fiat 500e
• Hyundai Kona Electric (early models)
• Volkswagen e-Golf
• Ford Focus Electric
• Tesla Model S (early models)

Why Did AI Flag These Specific Models?

ChatGPT provided several reasons for its warnings. It pointed to major battery fire recalls for the Chevrolet Bolt and noted the severely limited driving range of the Mazda MX-30 and Mini Cooper SE Electric.

For the Toyota bZ4X, the AI flagged recalls concerning wheels that could potentially fall off, along with software glitches. In the case of the Fisker Ocean, it cited reported issues with the company itself and its customer service.

Do Human Experts Agree With the AI?

Just like AI, automotive experts have their own varied opinions. On some points, there was clear agreement with ChatGPT’s assessment.

“The early models of the Nissan Leaf are notorious for battery problems,” stated Melanie Musson, an auto industry expert with AutoInsurance.org. “Since the battery is the foundational component of an EV, having an unreliable one means the car can become worthless instantly.”

However, other experts suggest the AI's lists are too simplistic. Ruth Calkins, general manager at FindByPlate, disagreed with some of the AI's conclusions. “I believe some of the EVs on this list are solid choices, with strengths that outshine their weaknesses, especially when it comes to EVs like the Toyota bZ4X, Subaru Solterra and the Mini Electric (Cooper SE),” she said. Calkins pointed out that these vehicles have standout features that could make them a worthwhile purchase for the right buyer.

Key EV Red Flags to Watch For

Ultimately, choosing a vehicle requires personal research. According to ChatGPT, here are the main red flags to look for when evaluating any EV:

• Poor range: Less than 150 miles for cars not exclusively used for city driving.
• Slow charging speeds: Taking more than 45 minutes for a 10% to 80% charge.
• No thermal battery management: This can lead to rapid battery degradation.
• Manufacturer instability: Financial or support issues with the carmaker.

Before you buy, always check reliability ratings, real-world range, safety scores, and tech features. Shopping around and comparing your options is the best way to make a decision you’ll be happy with.