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Top four budget-friendly electric vehicles to look for in 2024

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As the electric vehicle market expands, car enthusiasts on a budget can now explore a range of affordable options in 2024. 

Here are the top four cost-effective electric vehicles (EVs) that promise both sustainability and economic value:

1. Nissan Leaf (starting at $28,140)

Nissan Leaf (starting at $28,140).—Treehugger
Nissan Leaf (starting at $28,140).—Treehugger

The veteran Nissan Leaf, introduced in 2010, remains a compelling choice with a wallet-friendly starting price. Despite its long tenure in the EV world, the Leaf retains its charm and practicality. For safety-conscious buyers, it boasts a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

2. MINI Cooper SE Electric (starting at $30,900)

Mini Cooper SE.—ev.database
Mini Cooper SE.—ev.database

The MINI Cooper SE Electric preserves the iconic design of its gas-powered counterpart, delivering a unique electric driving experience. With a swift 0-60 mph acceleration in under seven seconds and favorable ownership ratings, it stands out as an affordable and stylish option.

3. Hyundai Kona Electric (starting at $32,675)

Hyundai Kona Electric.—EVdatabase
 Hyundai Kona Electric.—EVdatabase

The revamped 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric showcases a captivating design and improved features. The base SE model offers a commendable 200-mile range, while higher trims extend that to an impressive 261 miles. Hyundai’s standard 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty adds an extra layer of confidence for potential buyers.

4. Chevrolet Equinox 1LT (starting at $34,995)

2024 Chevy Equinox EV 1LT.—gmauthority
2024 Chevy Equinox EV 1LT.—gmauthority

Positioned as GM’s affordable EV, the Chevrolet Equinox 1LT enters the market as a worthy successor to the discontinued Chevrolet Bolt. Expected to hit showrooms in mid-2024, this model boasts an estimated 319-mile range on a full charge and accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 5.9 seconds. Its competitive pricing and performance make it a compelling option.

Important consideration for EV buyers

While these EVs offer affordability in terms of purchase price, prospective buyers should be mindful of insurance costs. Electric vehicles often come with higher insurance premiums due to longer repair times and the expense of battery packs. 

To optimise insurance expenses, it’s advisable to compare policies and explore bundling options with renters or homeowners insurance for potential premium reductions.

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Pakistan’s gold prices are still declining; see the most recent

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The price of 10-gram gold reduced by Rs943 to settle at Rs207,733, while the price of gold dropped by Rs1200 to close at Rs242,300 a tola, according to the Sindh Sarafa Jewellers Association.

In the global market, the price of the precious metal fell by $10 to $2,349 per ounce, resulting in losses.

At 04:48 GMT, the spot price of gold had dropped by 0.2% to $2,354.77 per ounce. In the previous session, prices reached a two-week high.

American gold futures dropped 0.6% to $2,361.

Spot silver decreased by 0.4% to $28.03 per ounce, while palladium remained steady at $978.03 and platinum decreased by 0.1% to $992.89.

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Pakistan and the IMF begin talks for a new loan.

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Pakistan is requesting a $6 to $8 billion bailout package from the international lender over the next three to four years to address its financial troubles.

A mission team led by Nathan Porter, the IMF’s Mission Chief in Pakistan, is meeting with a Pakistani delegation led by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb.

According to sources familiar with the situation, Islamabad may face more difficult options, such as raising power and gas bills.

Mr. Aurganzeb informed the IMF team that the country’s economy has improved as a result of the IMF loan package, and Islamabad is ready to sign a new loan programme to further develop.

The IMF mission expressed satisfaction with Islamabad’s efforts to revive the country’s struggling economy.

The IMF praised Pakistan’s economic growth in its staff report earlier this week, but warned that the outlook remains challenging, with very high downside risks.

The country nearly avoided collapse last summer, and its $350 billion economy has stabilized since the end of the last IMF program, with inflation falling to roughly 17% in April from a record high of 38% last May.

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Petrol prices are likely to drop significantly beginning May 16.

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According to sources, the government is set to decrease petrol prices by Rs 14 per litre and diesel prices by Rs 10 on May 16 for the next fortnight’s revision.

Last month, the government reduced the price of fuel and high-speed diesel by Rs5.45 and Rs8.42 per fortnight, respectively.

The current fuel price is Rs288.49 per litre, while the HSD price is Rs281.96.

Meanwhile, oil prices fell further on Monday, as signs of sluggish fuel consumption and comments from U.S. Federal Reserve officials dimmed optimism for interest rate reduction, which may slow growth and reduce fuel demand in the world’s largest economy.

Brent crude prices down 25 cents, or 0.3%, to $82.54 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude futures fell 19 cents, or 0.2%, to $78.07 per barrel.

Oil prices also declined on signals of poor demand, according to ANZ analysts, as gasoline and distillate inventories in the United States increased in the week before the start of the driving season.

Refiners throughout the world are dealing with falling diesel profitability as new refineries increase supply and warm weather in the northern hemisphere and weak economic activity reduce demand.

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