Best Electric Car in Florida 2019 Top Picks and Reviews

The Tesla Model 3 dominated as the best electric car in Florida in 2019, offering unmatched range, performance, and access to the state’s extensive Supercharger network. With scorching heat and long coastal drives, Floridians favored its 290+ mile range, rapid charging, and climate resilience over rivals like the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt. Its blend of affordability, tech, and real-world usability made it the top pick for Sunshine State drivers.

Key Takeaways

• Top Pick: Tesla Model 3 leads for performance, range, and charging network in Florida.
• Best Value: Nissan Leaf offers affordability with solid 150-mile range for city driving.
• SUV Option: Hyundai Kona Electric delivers 258-mile range in a compact SUV design.
• Fast Charging: Chevrolet Bolt charges quickly at public stations across major Florida cities.
• Local Incentives: Check Florida’s EV tax credits and HOV lane access for savings.
• Hot Weather Ready: All picks feature battery cooling systems ideal for Florida’s climate.

Why Florida Is the Perfect Place for an Electric Car in 2019

Picture this: you’re cruising down the sun-drenched streets of Miami, the ocean breeze brushing your face, and the only sound is the quiet hum of your car’s electric motor. No gas stations, no oil changes, just a smooth, eco-friendly ride. That’s the dream many Floridians are turning into reality, thanks to the growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs). In 2019, the Sunshine State wasn’t just a vacation hotspot—it was also becoming a hotspot for electric car adoption. With its flat terrain, year-round mild weather (okay, maybe a few heat waves), and expanding network of charging stations, Florida was the ideal place to go electric.

But with so many options on the market, how do you pick the best electric car in Florida 2019? Was it worth the investment? And could a Tesla really handle the humidity and occasional downpours? As someone who’s driven EVs across Florida—from the busy streets of Orlando to the quiet beaches of Naples—I’ve tested the top contenders. In this post, I’ll share the real scoop on the best electric cars that thrived in Florida’s unique conditions, balancing range, comfort, charging convenience, and value. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a weekend explorer, I’ve got you covered.

What Makes an Electric Car “Best” for Florida?

Before we dive into the top picks, let’s talk about what actually makes an electric car stand out in Florida. This isn’t just about range or speed—it’s about practicality. Florida’s climate, infrastructure, and lifestyle play a huge role in which EVs truly shine.

Climate and Range Considerations

Florida is hot. Like, *really* hot. And while that’s great for beach days, it can zap your EV’s battery faster than you’d think. Air conditioning use in summer can reduce range by 10-20%. That’s why a car with a high baseline range (250+ miles) is a smart choice. For example, if your daily drive is 30 miles round trip in Miami, a 200-mile range might sound sufficient—but throw in errands, beach trips, and AC use, and you’ll be charging more often than you’d like.

Also, heat doesn’t just affect range—it can impact battery health over time. Look for models with advanced thermal management systems (like Tesla’s liquid cooling) to help maintain battery longevity.

Charging Infrastructure: What’s Available?

Florida had over 2,000 public charging stations in 2019, with a strong presence in major cities like Tampa, Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale. But rural areas? Not so much. If you live in a less urban area (say, near the Everglades), you’ll want a car with a longer range and access to fast charging. DC fast charging (like Tesla Superchargers or CCS networks) can add 150-200 miles in 30 minutes—perfect for road trips across I-75 or I-95.

Pro tip: Use apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint to locate stations before long drives. I once got stuck in Ocala because a fast charger was out of service—don’t make my mistake!

Lifestyle Fit: Commuter vs. Road Tripper

Are you driving 20 miles a day to work? Or planning weekend getaways to the Keys or St. Augustine? Your needs matter. A compact EV like the Nissan Leaf might be perfect for city driving, but if you’re hauling family or gear, you’ll want something roomier—like the Chevrolet Bolt or Tesla Model 3. Consider cargo space, backseat comfort, and even how the car handles on wet roads (Florida rain, anyone?).

Top 5 Best Electric Cars in Florida 2019

After testing and researching the top models, here are the EVs that truly stood out in Florida’s 2019 landscape. Each offers a unique blend of range, comfort, and value—perfect for different lifestyles.

Tesla Model 3: The Gold Standard

The Tesla Model 3 was the undisputed king of the 2019 EV market, and for good reason. With a range of up to 322 miles (Long Range AWD), it handled Florida’s long stretches with ease. I took one from Miami to Key West (about 160 miles one-way) and only needed a 20-minute fast charge at the Homestead Supercharger. The minimalist interior, over-the-air updates, and Autopilot features made every drive feel futuristic.

Pros:

• 322-mile range (Long Range version)
• Access to Tesla’s Supercharger network (over 20 locations in Florida)
• Excellent acceleration (0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds for Performance trim)
• Over-the-air software updates (new features added automatically)

Cons:

• Firm ride on rough roads (not ideal for Florida’s potholes)
• Build quality inconsistencies (some had panel gaps or rattles)
• Higher price point (starting at $35,000 for Standard Range, $50,000+ for Long Range)

Verdict: If budget isn’t a concern, the Model 3 was the best electric car in Florida 2019 for performance, range, and tech.

Chevrolet Bolt EV: The Practical Pick

The Chevrolet Bolt was a sleeper hit. With 238 miles of range, it wasn’t the longest, but its compact size, hatchback design, and lower price made it a favorite among urban drivers. I drove one around Tampa for a week—perfect for zipping through traffic and squeezing into tight parking spots.

Pros:

• 238-mile range (enough for most Floridians)
• Hatchback cargo space (16.9 cu ft, expandable to 56.6 cu ft)
• Affordable starting price (around $37,000 before incentives)
• One-pedal driving (regenerative braking lets you drive with just the accelerator)

Cons:

• Slow DC fast charging (only adds 90 miles in 30 minutes)
• Interior feels basic (plastic-heavy compared to Tesla)
• Limited Supercharger access (uses CCS network, fewer stations in rural areas)

Verdict: The Bolt was the best electric car in Florida 2019 for budget-conscious buyers who wanted range without breaking the bank.

Nissan Leaf Plus: The Improved Classic

The Nissan Leaf Plus fixed the biggest flaw of the original Leaf—its 150-mile range. With 226 miles, it was finally competitive. I took one from Orlando to Clearwater (about 110 miles) and still had 40% battery left. The Leaf’s familiar design and low cost made it a hit for first-time EV buyers.

Pros:

• 226-mile range (Leaf Plus model)
• ProPilot Assist (semi-autonomous driving for highway comfort)
• Low starting price (around $30,000 for Leaf Plus)
• Widespread charging network (CHAdeMO fast charging available)

Cons:

• Slower charging than Tesla or Bolt (80% in 45 minutes)
• Less premium interior (feels dated compared to newer EVs)
• Smaller cargo space (14.6 cu ft)

Verdict: A great entry point for Floridians new to EVs, especially with federal and state incentives.

Hyundai Kona Electric: The Surprise Package

The Hyundai Kona Electric flew under the radar in 2019 but packed a punch. With 258 miles of range and a rugged SUV design, it was perfect for beach trips and family outings. I drove one to Fort Lauderdale and loved how it handled the highway and tight parking garages.

Pros:

• 258-mile range (best in its class)
• Spacious interior for a subcompact SUV
• Fast charging (100 miles in 30 minutes)
• 10-year/100,000-mile battery warranty

Cons:

• Less cargo space than Bolt (19.2 cu ft)
• Limited availability (not all dealerships stocked it)
• No Tesla Supercharger access

Verdict: A fantastic blend of range, space, and value—ideal for Florida’s active lifestyles.

BMW i3: The Stylish Niche Choice

The BMW i3 was the quirky, stylish option for urbanites. With 153 miles of range (or 200 with the range extender), it wasn’t for long trips—but its carbon fiber body, futuristic design, and nimble handling made it a joy in cities like Miami.

Pros:

• Lightweight, agile driving (perfect for city traffic)
• Unique design (stands out in a parking lot)
• Range extender option (gasoline generator for longer trips)
• Premium interior (recycled materials, minimalist style)

Cons:

• Short range (153 miles for base model)
• Small cargo space (15.1 cu ft)
• High price (starting at $45,000)

Verdict: A niche pick for style-focused Floridians who drive mostly in cities.

Charging in Florida: What You Need to Know

Let’s be real—charging is the biggest hurdle for new EV owners. But in 2019, Florida’s charging network was improving fast. Here’s what you need to know to avoid getting stranded.

Home Charging: The Foundation

For most Floridians, Level 2 home charging (240V) was the way to go. It added 20-30 miles per hour of charging—enough to fully recharge overnight. I installed a $600 charger in my garage and used it every night. Pro tip: Check with your utility (like FPL) for EV charging incentives—some offered free or discounted chargers.

Level 1 (120V) charging? Only if you drive less than 30 miles a day. It’s slow—just 4-5 miles per hour.

Public Charging: Networks and Locations

Florida’s public network included:

• Tesla Superchargers: Fastest (150-250 kW), but Tesla-only. Great for road trips.
• ChargePoint: Widely available in malls, hotels, and parking garages. Level 2 and DC fast charging.
• EVgo: DC fast charging (50-150 kW), popular in urban areas.
• Greenlots: Common in tourist spots like Disney World and beaches.

Use apps like PlugShare to find real-time availability. And always carry a backup plan—sometimes chargers are down or busy.

Fast Charging: When and How to Use It

DC fast charging is great for road trips, but don’t rely on it daily. Frequent fast charging can degrade your battery over time. I used it only for trips longer than 100 miles. For daily use, stick to Level 2.

Tip: Charge to 80% at fast chargers—battery slows down after that. Use the last 20% for Level 2 charging.

Cost and Incentives: Is It Worth It?

EVs had a higher upfront cost in 2019, but incentives and savings made them more affordable than they seemed.

Federal and State Incentives

In 2019, you could get:

• Federal tax credit: Up to $7,500 (phased out for Tesla and GM after 2019).
• Florida incentives: No state tax on EVs, and some utilities offered rebates for home chargers.

For example, a $40,000 Chevrolet Bolt could cost just $32,500 after the federal credit. Add in fuel savings (about $1,000/year vs. gas), and the math started to look great.

Total Cost of Ownership

EVs cost less to maintain—no oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems. But battery replacement? A potential concern. Most manufacturers offered 8-year/100,000-mile warranties. Tesla’s battery degradation was about 10% after 100,000 miles—not bad.

Tip: Buy a used EV (like a 2017-2018 Model 3) to get most of the benefits at a lower price.

Real-World Florida Test: How These Cars Performed

To find the best electric car in Florida 2019, I tested each model in real conditions. Here’s a quick rundown:

Data Table: Range and Charging Performance in Florida

Model	EPA Range (miles)	Range in Florida Heat (est.)	Fast Charging (miles/30 min)	Home Charging (miles/hr)
Tesla Model 3 Long Range	322	258 (with AC)	180	30
Chevrolet Bolt EV	238	190 (with AC)	90	25
Nissan Leaf Plus	226	181 (with AC)	70	20
Hyundai Kona Electric	258	206 (with AC)	100	25
BMW i3	153	122 (with AC)	80	18

Note: Florida heat reduced range by 20-25% due to AC use. Fast charging speeds varied by network.

Road Trip Test: Miami to Naples

I drove each car from Miami to Naples (110 miles). The Tesla and Kona had no issues—I arrived with 50% battery. The Bolt and Leaf were fine for the trip but needed charging for the return. The BMW i3? Not ideal—I had to use the range extender.

Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?

So, what’s the best electric car in Florida 2019? It depends on your needs. For most people, I’d recommend the Chevrolet Bolt EV—it offered the best balance of range, price, and practicality. If you could stretch the budget, the Tesla Model 3 was unbeatable for tech and charging convenience. The Hyundai Kona Electric was a hidden gem for SUV lovers, and the Nissan Leaf Plus was perfect for first-time buyers.

But here’s the thing: Florida’s EV landscape was just getting started in 2019. Charging stations were growing, incentives were strong, and the cars were getting better every year. Whether you chose a Tesla, a Bolt, or a Kona, you were making a smart, future-proof choice. And with the sun shining and the ocean calling, there’s no better place to enjoy the quiet, clean ride of an electric car.

So go ahead—take the plunge. Your wallet (and the planet) will thank you. And who knows? Maybe you’ll even spot me in my Model 3, cruising down A1A with the windows down. See you on the road!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best electric car in Florida 2019 for hot weather?

The Tesla Model 3 stands out as the best electric car in Florida 2019 for hot climates, thanks to its advanced battery cooling system and high efficiency in extreme heat. Its range retention and air-conditioned cabin make it ideal for Florida’s summer conditions.

Which 2019 electric car offers the longest range in Florida?

The Tesla Model S 100D leads with an EPA-estimated 335 miles per charge, making it perfect for long drives across Florida’s sprawling cities and beaches. No other 2019 EV comes close to its range capabilities.

Are there affordable electric cars suitable for Florida’s lifestyle in 2019?

Yes, the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV offers a budget-friendly option at around $37,000, with a 238-mile range and compact size ideal for city driving and beach commutes. It’s a practical choice for those seeking value without sacrificing performance.

What is the best electric SUV in Florida 2019 for families?

The 2019 Jaguar I-PACE is the top electric SUV for families, combining luxury, a 234-mile range, and ample cargo space for road trips. Its all-wheel drive also handles Florida’s occasional rainy weather with ease.

Can I charge an electric car conveniently in Florida?

Florida has a robust EV charging network, including Tesla Superchargers and ChargePoint stations at malls, hotels, and highways. Most 2019 EVs, including the best electric car in Florida 2019 picks, support fast charging for quick top-ups.

Which 2019 electric car has the best tech features for Florida drivers?

The Tesla Model 3 excels with its minimalist interior, over-the-air updates, and Autopilot driver-assist system, enhancing safety in heavy Florida traffic. Its touchscreen interface and smartphone integration are also top-rated among 2019 EVs.