5 Electric Cars More Powerful Than the Tesla Model S Plaid
Whereas the 2026 Tesla Model S remains a compelling option for those seeking a high-performance electric vehicle, several other EVs now offer more power. The Model S comes in two trims: a base model with 670 horsepower and the Model S Plaid boasting 1,020 hp, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under 2 seconds, according to reviews.
However, several competitors surpass the Model S in raw horsepower. The 2026 Lucid Air, particularly in its Sapphire trim, delivers 1,234 hp, a gain of over 250 hp compared to the Tesla. The Sapphire trim can reach 60 mph in 1.89 seconds and has an EPA-estimated range of 427 miles, though it carries a price tag of $249,000.
Venturing into the realm of electric hypercars, the Rimac Nevera offers up to 2,107 hp, more than double that of the Model S Plaid. The Nevera can accelerate to 60 mph in as little as 1.66 seconds, with a top speed of 267 mph. Production is limited, and the estimated price starts above $2 million.
The Yangwang U9 Xtreme, a luxury offering from Chinese EV maker BYD, pushes the boundaries even further with over 3,000 hp. The U9 Xtreme recently achieved a top speed of 308.4 mph at the Automotive Testing Papenburg test track in Germany, surpassing the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport’s previous record. BYD plans to produce only 30 units of the U9 Xtreme.
The Aspark Owl Roadster, a Japanese electric hypercar, produces a maximum of 1,953 hp and claims a 0 to 60 mph time of 1.72 seconds. Only 20 units of the Owl Roadster are planned for production.
Finally, the 2026 Lotus Evija, with 2,011 hp, also exceeds the Model S’s power output. Lotus claims a 0-60 mph time of under 2 seconds. However, the Evija is currently not approved for road employ in the United States and is priced at $2.4 million.
The selection of these EVs was guided by horsepower, with a focus on fully electric models offering greater power than the Tesla Model S. While the Model S provides a balance of practicality, range, and performance, these alternatives prioritize power, often at the expense of everyday usability and affordability.