A pretty shocking performance.
Up until now, electric performance cars were kind of a pipe dream with too many limitations. Theoretically, it is a great idea, but things like batteries, weight, charging, etc. were too hard to overcome. Thanks to advancements in technology, automakers like Tesla and Fisker along with mainstream automakers have developed ways to help make an electric performance car more viable.
The Tesla Model S is a rear-wheel drive all-electric car that in its Performance trim, is powered by a 416 hp (310 kW), 443 lb-ft., 85 kWh battery. Its factory performance is impressive, going 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds and hitting a top speed of 130 mph (according to factory numbers).
But how fast is it really? Well, the folks at DragTimes decided to put it up against a Dodge Viper SRT10 with an aftermarket exhaust and air filters on the drag strip at Palm Beach International Raceway. With the National Electric Drag Racing Association (NEDRA) in attendance, the Tesla Model S was able to beat the Viper and achieve a quarter-mile run of 12.371seconds at 110.84 mph with a 0-60 mph time of 3.9 seconds. After a few more passes that netted consistent 12.4-second runs, the NEDRA was able to verify and give the Tesla Model S the record for being the fastest production EV in the ¼ mile.
Who says electric cars can’t be fast?
[Source: DragTimes]
What do you think of the performance and record set by the Tesla Model S? Leave a comment and let us know!
