Did you know that the first successful electric vehicle in the U.S. was rolled out around 1890?
Related: The first electric supercar from Lexus is almost here
William Morrison, a chemist residing in Iowa, created a six-passenger electric vehicle. It boasted a top speed of about 23 km/h. While that invention was really nothing more than an electrified wagon, the invention shows that the concept of EVs is nothing new. But the industry has come a long way over the last few decades — and even more over the last few years.
According to one source, around 66,800 electric vehicles were sold by auto dealers in Canada last year. Annual sales in 2021 were up around 42.5% compared to the year-earlier period.
Some electric cars on the market today rival or even beat the performance of some of the fastest supercars or hypercars powered by combustion engines. Keep on reading to find out about the 5 fastest electric cars that you can potentially get behind the wheel of.
Fastest electric cars: Aspark Owl
It might be hard to believe, but the Aspark Owl can go from zero to 100 km/h in a mere 1.9 seconds. It has more than 2,000 HP and 1,457 lb-ft of torque. One reason why the vehicle is so fast is its weight. The weight of its carbon-fibre monocoque is a mere 265 lbs.
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Tesla Model S Plaid
With a range of 637 km between recharges, the Model S Plaid will put any range anxiety issues to rest for good. It also goes from zero to 100 km/h in 2.1 seconds, reaches a top speed of 322 km/h, and features peak power of 1,020 HP. With front and rear trunks and fold-flat seats, you’ll have room for your family, your pets, and all your luggage.
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Lucid Air Dream Edition
The Lucid Air Dream Edition has the longest range for any electric car rated by the EPA at 520 miles or 836 km on a single charge. It also goes from zero to 100 km/h in 2.42 seconds and also offers up to 1,111 HP.
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Porsche Taycan Turbo S
Using launch control, you can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 2.8 seconds in the Porsche Taycan Turbo S. Overboost Power with Launch Control adds up to 750 HP, and the fully-electric Porsche Taycan can reach a top speed of 260 km/h.
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Rivian R1S
The Rivian R1S goes from zero to 100 km/h in 3.1 seconds. It also boasts a towing capacity of up to 7,700 lbs. It also features three rows, can seat seven passengers, and has over 100 cubic feet of storage space. So, it’s the perfect vehicle if you’re looking to take a road trip or go camping with the family.
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Do You Have a Need for Speed?
If you’re interested in making the switch to an electric vehicle and want something with some get-up-and-go performance, you’ll want to consider some of the entries on this list.
You’ll get to satiate your need for speed, enjoy good range between recharges, and finally get that performance EV you’ve always wanted.
Born and raised in Toronto, Ian Palmer is a freelance writer currently living in Bancroft, Ontario. He mostly covers the automotive and technology spaces. In his free time, he enjoys reading and tinkering with small engine equipment.
