How does it compare?
Range
Starting with the all-critical range, the JMEV EV3 boasts a commendable 302 km (187 miles) on a single charge, powered by a 31.9 kWh battery. This is fairly competitive given its price bracket. Meanwhile, the Nissan Leaf strides forward with a solid 364 km (226 miles) from its 40 kWh battery. The Renault Zoe exudes French efficiency with 399 km (248 miles) courtesy of a 52 kWh battery. But stepping it up a notch, the BMW i3 holds firm at 300 km (186 miles) with a 42.2 kWh battery – no massively significant leap away from the JMEV. The undisputed champion here is the Chevrolet Bolt EV offering a meaty 417 km (259 miles) range thanks to a 66 kWh battery, ensuring you can wave off range anxiety without breaking a sweat.
Acceleration
When it comes to acceleration, the JMEV EV3 leaves us dangling, with no official data on its sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph). This might make the EV3 more suited for leisurely city drives than heart-thumping traffic light races. The Nissan Leaf gallops from 0 to 100 km/h in a respectable 7.9 seconds, while the Renault Zoe takes a somewhat pedestrian 9.5 seconds. The quirky yet nimble BMW i3 clocks in at a zippy 7.2 seconds, best suited for those adrenaline-inducing jaunts. The Chevrolet Bolt EV sprints to the front with an impressive 6.5 seconds, making it the sports car in this eco-friendly bunch.
Power
Steamrolling to horsepower figures, the plucky JMEV EV3 delivers a modest 48 horsepower (35.8 kW). This is quite the turtle in the field compared to its flashier competitors. The Nissan Leaf provides a hearty 147 h.p. (110 kW), while the Renault Zoe doesn’t zoom far behind with 132 h.p. (98.4 kW). Rocking up with some serious punch, the BMW i3 churns out 170 h.p. (125 kW), making it a sprightly machine. Bringing the thunder, the Chevrolet Bolt EV delivers a shocking(!) 200 h.p. (150 kW), clearly capable of leaving the rest in its electrically charged dust.
Charging Time
When re-fuelling these electric steads, the JMEV EV3 demands patience with a longer charging time, given its smaller battery and lower technology – specifics often left for the buyers discovery. The Nissan Leaf reloads in approximately 8 hours with a standard charger, and can fast-charge to 80% in about 40 minutes. The Renault Zoe takes roughly 9.5 hours from a home charging unit but also fast charges up to 80% in about 70 minutes. BMW i3 completes home charging in just under 6 hours, with fast charging options around 40 minutes to 80%. The Chevrolet Bolt EV also shows impressive figures with about 9.5 hours full charge or 30 minutes to get 160 km (100 miles) using a fast charger.
Price
The JMEV EV3 is, without doubt, the budget kingpin with a jaw-dropping starting price of only $9,220 (about £6,970 or €8,500). The others play their own tunes with the Nissan Leaf starting at around $31,600 (£24,130, €29,040). The ever-chic Renault Zoe comes in at approximately $32,800 (£25,050, €30,145). Not to be outdone, the BMW i3 starts at a cool $44,450 (£33,900, €40,850). Finally, the Chevrolet Bolt EV sets a high entry point at $36,620 (£28,000, €33,650). These pricier models justify their cost with performance, tech, and longer range, but none challenge the JMEVs sheer affordability.

