A recent evaluation conducted by Bruning Law Firm has highlighted the Hyundai Kona Electric as the premier choice among electric vehicles, blending safety with an accessible price tag. This study examined various EVs using a composite score that equally considered crash rates and manufacturer's suggested retail prices. Data normalization techniques were applied to ensure fairness in comparisons, with affordability measured against starting prices and safety represented through normalized fatal crash statistics over several years.

Among the contenders, the Hyundai Kona Electric stood out with a top score of 82.09 due to its remarkably low crash rate and reasonable pricing. Following closely was the Chevrolet Bolt EV, which also demonstrated a strong balance despite having a slightly higher crash frequency. The Ford Mustang Mach-E ranked third, excelling primarily because of its exceptional safety record, though its slightly elevated cost affected its overall ranking. Volkswagen’s ID.4 secured fourth place, showcasing a moderate safety profile paired with a more premium price point. Meanwhile, the Nissan Leaf completed the top five list, thanks to its budget-friendly nature, even if it experienced more crashes per unit sold compared to its peers.

The findings underscore the importance of evaluating both safety and affordability when selecting an electric vehicle. While some models like Tesla's Model Y and Audi’s e-tron offer commendable safety records, their higher price tags can limit accessibility for many consumers. On the other hand, vehicles such as Kia’s Niro EV and Hyundai’s Ioniq EV, although affordable or moderately priced, present significant concerns regarding safety performance. Choosing a vehicle that aligns with both personal budget constraints and safety priorities is crucial, promoting not only individual well-being but also fostering broader adoption of sustainable transportation options.