There is no denying that electric-powered cars are the in-thing now. Yes, we are slowly walking into the future in the automotive world. However, this doesn’t mean that fuel-powered cars are extinct, far from it.
All the same, electric cars are storming the market, and it is not hard to figure out why. They are efficient, eco-friendly, and available in various designs and configurations to suit buyers’ preferences.
Tesla has been the pacesetter when it comes to electric cars, but Nissan, Jaguar, Hyundai, Audi, and other automakers are gradually bridging the gap and catching up.
If you are looking to make the switch to an electric car but uncertain about the model and make to go for, worry not. Below we have compiled the top 5 electric sports cars on the market today to give you a clearer picture.
1. Tesla Model 3
If you are looking to enjoy the future driving experience today, look no farther than Tesla Model 3. It’s the best electric car in the market now.
This fully-electric four-door sedan sports a modern exterior complementing the luxurious interior. It comes with an EPA-rated 499-km range (base model has a 402 km), not to mention its state-of-art technology, which you can reconfigure to suit your needs. Additionally, Tesla’s over-the-air updates make it up-to-the-minute with every innovation developed. Performance-wise, the AWD 499-km range Model 3 sprints from 0 to 100km/h in as short as 3.4 seconds.
The car is fully electric, so you don’t have to worry about stopping to refuel. An overnight charge will give you a full battery when you wake up. When it comes to safety, Tesla undoubtedly outdid them all. Its aluminium-and-steel build gives it maximum strength in every area.
The carbon fibre spoiler improves the stability of the car even at its top speed of 261km/h. Model 3 comes with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive option. In terms of safety, it has 360-degree visibility working alongside 12 ultrasonic sensors.
Other standard features in the five-seater Model 3 include:
- 15-inch centre touchscreen display
- Wi-Fi hotspot and navigation
- 15 cubic ft. cargo space
Aside from Model 3, another impressive option is the Tesla Model S. It beats the Model 3 on capability alone and accelerates from 0 to 60 miles in 2.4 seconds.
2. Nissan Leaf (ZE1)
Tesla Model 3 may be the best electric car, but when it comes to well-roundedness, it is no match to the Nissan Leaf. With zero-emission, this hatchback-style car is perfect for eco-conscious commuters.
The EPA official range of the 2018 model is 243 km on its fully-charged 40kWh battery pack. The synchronous electric powertrain generates 110kW of power and 320Nm torque. The recently unveiled Nissan Leaf e+ has increased battery pack at 62kWh as well as a 364km (226 miles) range.
With the inclusion of all driver assistance technology, outsmarting traffic is a walk in the park. It is available with ProPilot assist – a semi-autonomous driving aid.
3. Audi e-Tron
Electric. Fast. Luxurious. The Audi e-Tron is another compelling option in this sector. A 95 kWh battery pack powers the two electric motors on the Audi e-Tron. Only 83.6 kWh, however, is usable.
The production version (different from initial specification) has a combined 265kW power output from its two electric motors. The front motor contributes 125kW at a 247Nm torque while the rear unit provides 140kW at a torque of 314Nm.
In terms of performance, it can attain a top speed of 200km/h and can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 6.6 seconds. The EPA rated range is 204 miles. Standard equipment includes:
- 12-way heated and ventilated front seats
- 20-inch wheel
- Panoramic rooftop
4. Jaguar I-Pace
As the first fully-electric Jaguar car, the I-Pace indeed lives up to its felid animal tag and delivers an electrifying drive experience. It sports a beautifully finished handcrafted interior with crisp white illuminations at night.
The powertrain provides 696Nm of torque and accelerates from 0 to 97km/h in 4.5 seconds. Each of the two synchronous electric motors delivers a power output of 147kW. It has an EPA and WLTP-rated ranges of 234 and 292 miles, respectively.
Its wheelbase-positioned 90kWh battery pack provides a low centre of gravity, which adds to its stability and road-handling ability.
5. BMW i3
The i3 was the first zero-emission car by BMW when the company unveiled its electric-car lineup, the BMW i. This B-Class hatchback makes use of a new powertrain consisting of a rear-mounted 130kW electric motor.
It can attain a top speed of 150km/h. The lithium-ion battery pack runs for 2 to 3 days after every full charge. Just like Tesla Model S that has 3G internet connectivity, BMW i3 is a fully-online car.
There are three operating modes, each with different ranges. The lowest mode - Comfort - can cover up to 130 to 160kms, followed by Eco Pro, which has 12% more driving range. In Eco Pro+, the range is 24% more than the comfort mode.
In the last quarter of 2018, BMW announced a 2019 model with a 42.2kWh battery pack. In the interior, the BMW i3 features a strong futuristic appeal. It is generally small, albeit a premium auto, and arguably the most readily available auto in this list.
Worth mentioning
1. Hyundai Ioniq Electric
The Hyundai Ioniq comes in three variants - hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric. Of course, our fascination lies in the electric model. It is a five-door hatchback featuring a 28kWh LiPo battery boasting an all-electric range of 200km and 280km by EPA and NEDC, respectively. There are plans to extend this current range to over 322km.
An 88kW-rated electric motor (delivering 295 Nm torque) powers the car. It comes with an integrated in-cable control box that allows charging from a household outlet.
2. Chevrolet Bolt EV
If you are in search of an electric car but don’t want to spend too much, the Chev Bolt EV should be in your list. It perfectly combines accessibility, usability, and fun and delivers an affordable option.
It packs a 60kWh battery with an integrated cooling system, which has an EPA range of 383km. Bolt EV’s motor delivers 150kW power and 340Nm torque. The 2020 model will feature a 6kWh increase in the battery pack and an added 34km range.
Its interior permanent magnet electric motors allow the car to accelerate from 0 to 977km/h in less than 7 seconds and attain a top speed of 146km/hr. A single-speed transmission pairs with the electric motors resulting in a single modular drive unit.
It supports standard SAE EV charging both at levels 1 and 2(AC). The charging systems and rates for all these cars vary. Most, however, allow for both household charging and charging at specified stations.
Author:
Sam O.