But many people can't afford two cars.
Well, looking around my distinctly blue collar neighborhood, I see zero houses with only one car. Most families have at least two cars...some have more.
If you can only afford one car, then one of these electric cars probably wouldn't be the best choice.
On the other hand, I have two cars, neither of which is anywhere near new. Both are paid for, and my driving record keeps my insurance low on both. I don't maintain any sort of collision insurance, since I have never had an accident. If I do, then the money I've saved from not paying for that insurance ought to cover it.
Your situation may be different. However, that doesn't mean that small electric cars for local use don't make sense for others.
It's always funny that people seem to think that their own situation applies to everyone. That's rarely the case.
Good points on the insurance.
Also, older cars cost less to insure.
If you have to have the latest and greatest, insurance will be much higher.
If you can't afford the insurance, get an old clunker and don't have collision. It will be much more affordable then.