The Fastest EVs in 2023
For fans of internal combustion engine power, it’s hard to ignore the impressive numbers EVs tout, from top speeds to torque and 0-60 mph times. In fact, it’s hard not to be swayed toward owning an EV. So if you’re looking for style, technology, and top speed, you might want to look at our list of the fastest EVs in 2023.
The list mostly consists of Teslas and Lucid models, but there are some surprises, as well as the cost of obtaining top speed in the EV age. After all, the old axiom is how fast you want to go depends on how much money you have. Every engine builder asks, “How fast?,” and, “How much do you want to spend?” simultaneously.
Lucid Air Sapphire
200+ mph
0-60: 1.99 sec.
$249,000
With 1,200 hp and an under two-second 0 to 60 time, the Lucid Air Sapphire is the top of the heap. It’s the fastest, most powerful, and has the longest range of any EV. How long it will be able to hold that position remains to be seen. Its main problem now is holding onto reservation holders, as many have fallen out.
Tesla Model S Plaid
200 mph
0-60: 1.99 sec.
$104,990
As is the case with many Teslas models, its price comes in lower than the competition, for mostly the same features and performance. The Model S Plaid is a good example of this strength. For less than half the price of the Lucid Air Sapphire, you are getting almost exactly the same performance, style, and bragging rights.
Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance
168 mph
0-60: 2.5 sec.
$179,000
Being labeled a “Grand Touring” machine, you expect more refinement and less speed-induced freakiness. Power has been tuned back to 1,111 hp, which comes in close to its 1,200 hp sibling Air Sapphire. Factoring in the refinement adds weight, thus the slightly lower numbers.
Tesla Model X Plaid
163 mph
0-60: 2.5 sec.
$104,990
The driveline of the Model S Plaid is stabbed into the Model X, resulting in similar performance numbers. But look at the price compared to the Lucid Grand Touring Performance. Around $75,000 less, so Tesla wins again in the speed versus pocketbook department.
Tesla Model 3 Performance
162 mph
0-60: 3.1 sec.
$52,990
There isn’t a cheaper EV with this kind of performance. Especially related to some under this list, it’s a bargain. Not as sexy as a Taycan or Lucid Air, but with speed and performance, there is always a tradeoff. With the same drivetrain as the Model Y, the Model 3 Performance packs 455 hp.
Porsche Taycan Turbo S
161 mph
0-60: 2.6 sec.
$194,900
When it comes to Porsche, there is intrinsic value involved. So while the price comes close to $200,000, with performance numbers that come close to others on this list, buyers feel they get that certain elan that comes with Porsche ownership. The Taycan is a beautiful sedan, with handling that can surpass other EVs found here, and a healthy 750 hp, too.
Audi RS e-Tron GT
156 mph
0-60: 3.1 sec.
$143,900
You can think of the e-Tron GT as a detuned Porsche Taycan. They’re based on the same platform, body, and technology. If you prefer the styling over the Taycan, and many do, then the $50,000 lower price is really enticing. And 156 mph and 637 hp is nothing to make excuses about.
