It's a very specific perspective to assume that the sticker price is relevant.

Almost no-one I know owns a new car regardless of their income bracket. 5-10 years old is the norm. Many have cars that are just on the cusp of the emissions regulations (approx 15-20 year old petrol car in London).

A car that costs 3K is perfectly serviceable, you can drive across the country with it. I don't think I could find an electric car with even a 200 mile range for less than five times that.

Since the Ukraine war electricity has been more expensive than petrol too.