Electric automobiles have been around for much longer than many people realize. In fact, the first electric car in the United States was created in 1890 in DesMoines, Iowa. It was a wagon with room for six that reached whopping speeds of 14 miles per hour. Followed by decades of cars that ran solely on fossil fuels, favored for their increased land speed, by the end of the 20th century Americans increasingly became environmentally conscious.

By 2010, electric vehicle technology was finally able to impress consumers with the mass market introduction of the all-electric Nissan Leaf. Today, most automobile manufacturers offer either a hybrid option or fully electric option in their model lineup. For 2021, here are three cars that are environmentally smart, and also capable of keeping up with their fuel-reliant counterparts.

1. Hyundai Ioniq Electric 

In the last few years, electric-optioned vehicles have become increasingly affordable for anyone considering auto financing. The Hyundai Ioniq is one such budget-friendly electric vehicle to hit the market in recent years. It's offered in hybrid, all electric, and plug-in hybrid options.

The Ioniq is not available in all markets, as it is currently only available in 14 states. However, anyone interested in an electric car with plenty of storage will appreciate the hatchback design.

Not only does the Ioniq offer green travel, but the interior is built from eco-friendly materials that utilize a composite made from sugar cane and volcanic rock, making it the ultimate in environmental friendliness. The touchscreen infotainment center offers everything you'd expect from a car of a higher class. The best feature of the Ioniq is its mpg in hybrid versions, having a fuel economy of 59 highway miles per gallon. Annual fuel costs average an excitingly low $500.

2. Tesla Model 3 Long Range

For those with a larger budget, the Tesla Model 3 offers a fully electric car that can travel distances between 263 and 315 miles on a full charge. A long-range option can travel up to 353 miles. This sleek vehicle comes equipped with an all glass roof, but also offers impressive performance. Depending on which option you choose, can run 0-60 in 4.2 seconds or 3.1 seconds.

Because it is free of fuel, the Model 3 offers a quiet ride with a low center of gravity due to the battery being located below the floor. Because the floor is low and flat, it provides a spacious feel. This is also perhaps a result of its simple interior design.

3. Chevrolet Bolt EV

The Chevrolet Bolt is an all electric compact hatchback that came onto the eco-friendly auto scene in 2016. Its battery range is an impressive 259 miles.

Interestingly, the Bolt was due to receive some updates to the interior and exterior, but when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, these updates were put off until 2022. Updates that did happen include smartphone entry and start and DC fast charging.

Using DC fast charging, the Bolt can be charged up to 90 miles in 30 minutes. A full charge can be achieved in 10 hours using a 240 volt charger.

The Chevrolet Bolt is a sporty vehicle with enough room to comfortably seat a small family. It is expecting a big brother, the Bolt EUV, to join it in the Chevrolet lineup by the summer of 2021.

Electric and hybrid vehicles have come a long way in recent years. While in recent years they were styled to stand out among other vehicles, today it would be difficult to differentiate them from fuel-operated vehicles. Their affordability offers the consumer an easy decision when choosing a vehicle that offers good fuel economy as well as minimal impact to the environment.