The Complex Relationship in Electric Cars

Electric cars enjoy the advantage of immediate torque, but this doesn’t necessarily equate to high speed.

Affordable electric cars, such as the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Hyundai Kona Electric, exhibit nimbleness in city driving but don’t make waves on the drag strip. However, when it comes to these upscale models we’re examining here, they can not only keep pace with some of the most potent gasoline-powered sports cars globally but often outperform them.

Our focus here is on well-established automakers, excluding smaller companies like Rimac and Pininfarina, due to their limited availability and the absence of independent testing. Furthermore, we’re not solely relying on manufacturer-provided data; we’re also incorporating acceleration figures like zero-to-60 mph and quarter-mile times as reported by Motor Trend. Additionally, we’ve divided this article into two sections: the first section spotlights currently available EVs, while the second section delves into upcoming models.

Tesla Model S Plaid (1.98 seconds)

The Model S outpaces the Porsche Taycan Turbo S at lower speeds and clinches the zero-to-60 title with an official Tesla-claimed time of 1.99 seconds for the current Plaid model, a notable achievement. In Motor Trend’s Plaid test, however, the EV accelerated to 60 mph in a jaw-dropping 1.98 seconds. Equipped with a 100 kWh battery pack, the Model S boasts a remarkable 1,020 horsepower, firmly establishing its supremacy over all competitors. Even the second-fastest car on our list lags behind the Model S Plaid by 0.4 seconds, a noteworthy distinction given the close competition among the options lower down the list.

Porsche Taycan Turbo S (2.4 seconds)

There was a period when the highest-performing Tesla achieved a quicker 0-60 mph time than the top Porsche, although the Porsche held an advantage in the quarter-mile race. Today, the Model S Plaid prevails in both categories, but the Porsche Taycan Turbo S remains remarkably swift. This vehicle can accelerate to 60 mph in a remarkable 2.4 seconds and cover the quarter-mile distance in a speedy 10.3 seconds. While the Taycan features a slightly smaller 93.4 kWh battery pack compared to the Model S, its electric powertrain still delivers an impressive 750 horsepower and 774 lb.-ft. of torque when Launch Control is engaged. Under regular driving conditions, it generates 616 horsepower.

Lucid Air Dream Edition Performance (2.7 seconds)

Lucid represents another entrant in the tech-driven automotive landscape, and their endeavors have yielded quite impressive outcomes. Among the various Lucid Air variants, the swiftest presently available is the Lucid Air Dream Edition Performance. However, anticipation builds for an even faster model called the Lucid Sapphire, which is poised to arrive in the future.Now, let’s delve into the performance metrics. The Lucid Air Dream Edition Performance boasts a remarkable 1,050 horsepower and 921 lb-ft of torque, propelling it from a standstill to 60 mph in a blistering 2.7 seconds. While it may not match the top speeds of the quickest Tesla and Porsche models, it still commands an exhilarating level of acceleration that stands out in today’s automotive landscape.

Audi RS e-tron GT (2.9 seconds)

Audi’s e-tron lineup boasts an array of Electric cars, but among them, the RS e-tron GT stands out as both the fastest and the epitome of cool. While it may not match the sheer velocity of the Tesla and Porsche counterparts in this category, achieving a zero-to-60 mph time of 2.9 seconds is undeniably impressive, and it manages to do so while exuding a style that arguably outshines the Model S. In terms of power, the RS e-tron GT delivers a formidable 637 horsepower, with the ability to adjust depending on the driving mode. Paired with a 93.4 kWh battery, it may not offer the expansive range of the Model S or Lucid Air, but it’s a trade-off for the undeniable allure of its design and performance.

Mercedes AMG EQS (3.0 seconds)

The Mercedes-AMG EQS stands apart from its competitors on this list by delivering a zero-to-60 time without the customary “3” at the start, but this certainly doesn’t label it as slow. Although it might not exude the same visual allure as the Audi RS e-tron GT, the EQS boasts its own set of compelling qualities.First and foremost, it envelops passengers in an exceptionally luxurious and comfortable interior, offering a wealth of creature comforts to satisfy even the most discerning tastes.When it comes to acceleration, the EQS doesn’t disappoint. As previously noted, it sprints to 60 mph in just 3.0 seconds, which is undeniably quick. This impressive performance is attributed to its robust powertrain, which dishes out a commanding 649 horsepower and a hefty 700 lb-ft of torque.While it may not achieve the blistering speeds of some of its counterparts, the Mercedes-AMG EQS provides a harmonious blend of speed and opulence, making it a compelling choice for those who seek both exhilaration and luxury in their electric vehicle.

Upcoming Electric Cars models

Tesla Model X Plaid

The Model X Plaid is on the verge of breaking into the upper echelon of this list. However, with its recent rollout, there’s still a scarcity of comprehensive testing to confirm its top-speed credentials. Nonetheless, it’s a safe bet that this SUV-sized powerhouse will deliver impressive speed. If you’re in the market for an SUV that defies convention with its astonishing speed, the Model X Plaid might just be your perfect fit. The Tesla Model X Plaid is the epitome of an electric car that keeps its uniqueness hidden from plain view. At first glance, it appears quite ordinary when compared to its standard Model X counterpart. However, don’t be deceived by its unassuming design, as beneath the surface lies an astonishing reservoir of power. By the way, it’s worth noting that “Plaid” is pronounced as “pled.” In the realm of electric performance, numbers can truly astound. Consider this: the most budget-friendly Tesla Model X offers a generous 576 kilometers of range (according to WLTP standards), propels from 0 to 100 km/h in a swift 3.9 seconds, and achieves an impressive top speed of 250 km/h. These are undoubtedly commendable figures.

However, brace yourself for a paradigm shift as we delve into the extraordinary. The Tesla Model X Plaid, boasting a still-respectable 543 kilometers of range (WLTP), completely redefines the meaning of acceleration by surging from 0 to 100 km/h in a mind-blowing 2.6 seconds, topping out at an astounding 262 km/h.

How is such an incredible feat possible? The answer lies in a staggering system output of 1,020 horsepower. Yes, you read that correctly – one thousand and twenty horsepower! To put it in perspective, that surpasses the power of the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 by a substantial nineteen horsepower.

Lucid Air Sapphire

In the world of Electric cars, there’s a new player in town, and they’re not holding back. Lucid’s Air Sapphire, part of their performance sub-brand, boasts a staggering 1,200+ horsepower. This four-door EV can go from 0 to 60 mph in under two seconds, hit 100 mph in less than four, and conquer a quarter-mile dragstrip in under nine seconds. But creating such astonishing numbers isn’t a walk in the park. Lucid achieved this feat by equipping the Air Sapphire with three motors, an upgrade from the standard two in the Air, resulting in over 1,200 bhp. Massive carbon-ceramic brakes, stiffer suspension, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires ensure this 2.5-tonne powerhouse can handle its incredible power. With Lucid’s own performance sub-brand, the Air Sapphire takes on the challenge of rivaling even the Model S Plaid. It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about making a noticeable difference in the world of high-performance Electric cars. So, if you thought 1,100+ bhp cars needed a go-faster division, Lucid’s Air Sapphire is here to prove you right.

Tesla Roadster

When it comes to electric supercars, Tesla’s upcoming Roadster stands as a true marvel, poised to redefine speed and performance. If Tesla’s claims hold true, this car will be one of the swiftest Electric cars on our list. Picture this: 0 to 60 mph in a mere 1.9 seconds, and a quarter-mile dash in a mind-boggling 8.8 seconds. These feats are partly owed to its substantial 200 kWh battery pack.

While the exact power output of this electric powerhouse remains a mystery, estimations hover around the 1,000 horsepower range, a number that certainly aligns with its blistering performance. However, eager enthusiasts have been met with delays, as the $200,000 Roadster has seen its release pushed back multiple times, leaving anticipation at an all-time high.

The Roadster doesn’t just redefine speed; it pushes the boundaries of aerodynamic engineering, achieving record-setting performance and efficiency. It’s the first supercar to excel in every performance category while accommodating seating for four. If that weren’t enough, the lightweight, removable Glass Roof stows away in the trunk, promising an exhilarating open-air, convertible driving experience.