Lucid Air Sapphire dethrones Tesla as the fastest electric car
Until recently, the Tesla Model S Plaid version held the crown in acceleration prowess. However, the Lucid Air Sapphire has overtaken Tesla's quarter-mile race record, showcasing superior performance.
10:04 AM EDT, April 24, 2024
The evolution of electric cars continues to impress, extending beyond reduced energy consumption and increased range. These vehicles are not only more visually appealing but are also achieving remarkable performance milestones. Today, the fastest electric models are outpacing supercar giants like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Bugatti in acceleration. Despite their heavier build affecting handling, they remain unmatched in acceleration capabilities.
The Tesla Model S Plaid version once led this category, but the Lucid Air Sapphire has emerged as a genuine "rocket," setting new standards for speed.
Lucid Air Sapphire surpasses Tesla on the track
Automobile performance has always captivated consumers, serving as a benchmark for competition. While the acceleration gap between these models is narrow, the Lucid Air Sapphire has claimed the title of the fastest accelerating car, outperforming Tesla in both the sprint to 60 mph and the quarter-mile dash.
The Tesla Model S Plaid, previously the American manufacturer's fastest offering, completes the quarter-mile in 9.258 seconds. In contrast, in consecutive attempts, the Lucid Air Sapphire finishes in under 9 seconds, with recorded times of 8.94 and 8.92 seconds. Even modified Tesla Model S versions were slower. The Lucid Air Sapphire's preparation included tire warming and battery pre-conditioning.
From a standstill to 60 mph, the Lucid Air Sapphire achieves this in just 1.92 seconds, outpacing the Tesla Model S Plaid, which has 1020 HP and completes the same sprint in 1.99 seconds.
The Impressive Performance of the Lucid Air Sapphire
The Lucid Air Sapphire captivates with its 1,234 horsepower output. Its manufacturer claims it can reach 60 mph even quicker than in these tests – in 1.89 seconds. This model also impresses with its range, exceeding 500 miles. A fast charger can recover 200 miles of range in merely 12 minutes.
Despite its high performance, the Lucid Air Sapphire isn't categorized as a super sports car. It offers luxurious amenities, including four doors and a spacious trunk, alongside creature comforts like ventilated and heated front seats with massage capabilities.
It is available in four versions: Pure (RWD), Touring (AWD), Grand Touring (AWD), and Sapphire (AWD), with outputs of 430, 620, 819, and 1,234 HP, respectively. Their prices start at $69,000, $77,000, $109,900, and $249,000, with the 0 to 60 mph acceleration times of 4.5, 3.4, 3, and under 1.9 seconds, respectively.
A potential track showdown?
The Drag Times team, responsible for the Lucid Air Sapphire's performance measurements, often shares their tests on YouTube. They've hinted at a potential direct competition between the two electric models. Such an event would allow onlookers to witness firsthand which car truly dominates in acceleration under equal conditions, such as wind force and direction or track surface. This promises to determine the undisputed acceleration king.
