Electric vehicles are known for their instant torque, but not all EVs are created equal when it comes to speed. While affordable options like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Hyundai Kona Electric offer zippy city driving, they’re not designed for the drag strip. However, high-performance EVs are changing the game, rivaling and often surpassing the acceleration of some of the world’s most powerful gasoline-powered sports cars. This article explores the fastest electric cars currently available, focusing on established brands with readily available models and independently verified performance data, along with a glimpse at some exciting upcoming EVs.
2021 Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S Plaid reigns supreme with a mind-bending 0-60 mph time. (Image credit: Tesla)
Current Speed Demons
These are the EVs currently on the market that boast blistering acceleration:
Tesla Model S Plaid (1.98 seconds)
The Tesla Model S Plaid currently holds the crown for the quickest 0-60 mph time. Tesla claims a 1.99-second sprint, but Motor Trend recorded an even more astonishing 1.98 seconds in their testing. This incredible performance comes from a tri-motor setup generating over 1,020 horsepower, drawing power from a 100 kWh battery pack.
Lucid Air Dream Edition Performance (2.2 seconds)
Lucid’s Air Dream Edition Performance is a serious contender in the speed race. While Lucid claims a 1.89-second 0-60 mph time, Motor Trend clocked it at 2.2 seconds. Still, that’s an incredibly fast time, achieved by a powerful triple-motor system. It’s worth noting that Motor Trend tested a prototype, and the production version might be even quicker.
Front three quarter view of the Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance EV.
The Lucid Air Dream Edition delivers impressive performance. (Image credit: Lucid)
Porsche Taycan Turbo S (2.4 seconds)
The Porsche Taycan Turbo S may not hold the top spot anymore, but it’s still incredibly fast, reaching 60 mph in a mere 2.4 seconds and completing the quarter-mile in 10.3 seconds. Its 93.4 kWh battery pack and electric powertrain produce a formidable 750 hp and 774 lb-ft of torque with Launch Control.
The Porsche Taycan Turbo S remains a strong performer in the EV speed arena.
Audi RS e-tron GT (2.9 seconds)
The Audi RS e-tron GT boasts a stunning 0-60 mph time of 2.9 seconds. While not as quick as the Tesla or Porsche, its performance is undeniably impressive, coupled with a stylish design. It packs a punch with 637 hp and a 93.4 kWh battery.
Audi RS e-tron GT
The Audi RS e-tron GT combines speed with sleek aesthetics. (Image credit: Audi)
Mercedes AMG EQS (3.0 seconds)
The Mercedes-AMG EQS hits 60 mph in 3.0 seconds, delivering both speed and luxury. Its powerful motor generates 649 hp and 700 lb-ft of torque, providing exhilarating acceleration alongside a comfortable and luxurious interior.
Front three quarter view of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS.
The Mercedes-AMG EQS offers a blend of performance and luxury. (Image credit: Stephen Edelstein / MaagX)
Electrifying the Future: Upcoming EVs
Several highly anticipated EVs promise even more impressive performance:
Tesla Model X Plaid
The Tesla Model X Plaid, while recently launched, hasn’t undergone extensive third-party testing yet. However, early indications suggest it will be incredibly quick, offering SUV practicality with supercar-like acceleration.
Tesla Model X
The Tesla Model X Plaid is poised to be a high-performance SUV. (Image credit: Tesla)
Tesla Cybertruck
The tri-motor Tesla Cybertruck Plaid is projected to hit 60 mph in under 2.9 seconds. While official power figures haven’t been released, estimates suggest around 800 hp and 1,000 lb-ft of torque.
Tesla
The Tesla Cybertruck promises a unique blend of performance and utility. (Image Credit: Tesla)
Tesla Roadster
Tesla’s next-generation Roadster aims to be a game-changer, boasting a claimed 1.9-second 0-60 mph time and an 8.8-second quarter-mile. Its massive 200 kWh battery pack is expected to deliver unprecedented performance, with estimated power output around 1,000 hp.
Tesla Roadster
The Tesla Roadster aims to set new standards for EV performance.
The landscape of high-performance electric vehicles is constantly evolving, with new models pushing the boundaries of speed and acceleration. From established players like Tesla, Lucid, and Porsche to emerging contenders, the future of fast EVs is undeniably exciting.
