How fast do electric cars go from 0 to 60?

Electric cars typically accelerate from 0 to 60 mph anywhere from about 7–8 seconds for entry-level models to under 2 seconds for the quickest hypercars, with the majority of mainstream EVs landing between 4–6 seconds. That spread reflects differences in battery size, motor output, traction systems, vehicle weight, and whether a car is tuned for efficiency or performance.

The spectrum of EV 0–60 times

The following breakdown shows common 0–60 mph ranges by EV category, along with representative examples to help set expectations when comparing models.

• Entry-level/affordable EVs (roughly 7–9 seconds): Examples include older Nissan Leaf variants and compact models focused on efficiency rather than outright speed.
• Mainstream family EVs (roughly 4.5–6 seconds): Popular crossovers and sedans like Tesla Model 3 RWD (around 5.8s) and Model Y Long Range (about 4.8–5.0s), Hyundai Ioniq 5 AWD (around 4.4s), and similar peers.
• Performance trims of mainstream models (roughly 3–4 seconds): Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition (about 3.5s), Kia EV6 GT (around 3.2s), Hyundai Ioniq 5 N (about 3.2–3.4s depending on test).
• High-performance luxury sedans/GTs (roughly 2.3–2.9 seconds): Porsche Taycan Turbo S (as low as ~2.3–2.6s depending on model year and testing), Tesla Model 3 Performance (about 2.9–3.1s).
• Halo cars and hypercars (under ~2.0 seconds in ideal conditions): Tesla Model S Plaid (claimed 1.99s with rollout; independent tests often ~2.1–2.3s), Lucid Air Sapphire (as low as ~1.9s in instrumented tests), Rimac Nevera (about 1.7–1.9s in various verified runs).

While outliers grab headlines, most shoppers will find today’s mainstream EVs deliver sports-car-like acceleration in everyday trims, with performance versions offering supercar-level thrust.

Standout examples and their verified times

Below are notable EVs with widely reported or independently tested 0–60 mph times. Figures vary with test methods, rollout conventions, weather, and surface conditions.

1. Tesla Model 3 RWD: Around 5.8 seconds (varies slightly by model year and wheel/tire). Model 3 Long Range AWD: roughly 4.2s. Model 3 Performance: commonly 2.9–3.1s depending on rollout and conditions.
2. Tesla Model Y Long Range: roughly 4.8–5.0 seconds; Model Y Performance: around 3.5 seconds.
3. Hyundai Ioniq 5 AWD: about 4.4 seconds; Ioniq 5 N: roughly 3.2–3.4 seconds when using launch control and optimal conditions.
4. Kia EV6 GT: approximately 3.2 seconds with launch control engaged.
5. Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition: about 3.5 seconds.
6. Porsche Taycan Turbo S: as low as roughly 2.3–2.6 seconds depending on model year, battery, tires, and test methodology.
7. Tesla Model S Plaid: claimed 1.99 seconds with a one-foot rollout; independent tests commonly record around 2.1–2.3 seconds.
8. Lucid Air Sapphire: instrumented tests have recorded about 1.9 seconds (with rollout and ideal prep).
9. Rimac Nevera: multiple instrumented runs have shown roughly 1.7–1.9 seconds (with rollout and excellent surface prep).

These examples illustrate both the breadth of performance and the importance of context—some numbers reflect specialized launch modes, preconditioned batteries, sticky tires, or drag-strip surfaces.

What factors affect an EV’s 0–60?

EV acceleration is influenced by hardware, software, and test conditions. The items below explain why published times and real-world results can differ.

• State of charge and battery temperature: Peak power is typically available near the middle-to-high state of charge (often above ~70–80%) and when the pack is properly warmed or preconditioned.
• Traction and tires: All-wheel drive, tire compound, and road surface dramatically impact launch grip and repeatability.
• Rollout methodology: Using a one-foot “rollout” (common in drag racing) can reduce 0–60 times by roughly 0.1–0.3s versus true from-standstill measurements.
• Vehicle mass and gearing: Heavier SUVs may be slower than lighter sedans with similar power; fixed gear ratios and motor characteristics also matter.
• Powertrain control and launch modes: Performance modes, launch control, and torque vectoring can unlock faster sprints than default drive settings.
• Thermal limits and repeat runs: Heat buildup can reduce power on subsequent launches unless the car has robust cooling.
• Altitude and weather: Higher elevations and very hot or cold temperatures generally hurt performance.
• Software updates: Some EVs receive over-the-air updates that can alter acceleration performance or launch procedures.

When comparing claims, check whether times include rollout, note the test environment, and look for independent instrumented results alongside manufacturer figures.

What should you expect day to day?

In everyday driving, most modern EVs feel quick off the line thanks to instant torque, even if their published 0–60 times aren’t headline-grabbing. Family-focused models typically deliver brisk 4–6 second sprints that outpace many gasoline rivals, while performance trims can approach or surpass supercar benchmarks. For consistent best results, keep the battery at a healthy state of charge, precondition when available, and use the car’s performance settings as intended.

Summary

Electric cars span a wide 0–60 mph range: roughly 7–8 seconds for entry-level models, 4–6 seconds for mainstream family EVs, 3–4 seconds for performance trims, and under 2 seconds for top-tier halo cars in ideal conditions. Real-world results depend on charge level, temperature, traction, and whether a test uses rollout, but the bottom line is clear—EVs deliver exceptional off-the-line acceleration across nearly every segment.

Are all electric cars as fast as Tesla?

The Lucid Air Sapphire is the fastest mass-produced electric car, with a top speed of 205 mph. The quickest EV is the Tesla Model S Plaid, with a 0-60 mph time of 2.3 seconds in Edmunds’ testing. If you’re thinking “Aren’t fast and quick the same thing?” Not quite.

What electric car has 0 to 60 mph?

2021 Tesla Model S Plaid: 0–60 MPH in 2.1 Seconds
Add it all up, and you get a screaming sedan-shaped surface-to-surface missile with a monstrous 1,020 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. The acceleration of a Model S Plaid is both an experience and a demonstration of powerful physical forces.

What is the biggest weakness of the electric car?

Cost and availability of EV batteries are two primary disadvantages of electric cars.

Which is the fastest electric car?

The fastest electric car by top speed is currently the BYD Yang Wang U9 Track Edition, which hit a record 293.5 mph in August 2025. In terms of acceleration (0-60 mph), the Rimac Nevera is the fastest, achieving 0-60 mph in as little as 1.74 seconds.
 
Here’s a breakdown:

• Fastest Top Speed: BYD Yang Wang U9 Track Edition at 293.5 mph 
• Fastest Acceleration: Rimac Nevera, with 0-60 mph in 1.74-1.85 seconds 

It’s important to differentiate between “fastest” (top speed) and “quickest” (acceleration). 
Top Speed Champion 

• BYD Yang Wang U9 Track Edition: Achieved a record-breaking 293.5 mph in August 2025.

Acceleration King 

• Rimac Nevera: This hypercar is known for its incredible acceleration, reaching 60 mph in under two seconds, with some tests showing 1.74 to 1.85 seconds. It uses a quad-motor setup to deliver its power.

Other Notable Fast EVs

• Lucid Air Sapphire: Opens in new tabA powerful and fast luxury sedan, achieving over 200 mph top speed and a 0-60 mph time under 2 seconds. 
• Tesla Model S Plaid: Opens in new tabA former champion in the performance EV arena, capable of a 200 mph top speed and a 0-60 mph time of 1.99 seconds. 
• Porsche Taycan Turbo GT: Opens in new tabAnother very fast production EV known for its performance capabilities, according to this YouTube video.