Two ultra-high performance electric sedans are pushing power and speed limits, Tesla Model S Plaid versus the new Lucid Air Sapphire. These 1,000+ hp EVs aim for unmatched acceleration, but at very different price points.
Model S Plaid has dominated as the quickest production EV with militant performance:
- 1,020 hp and 0-60 mph in 1.99 seconds
- Top speed of 204+ mph
- 405 miles of range
- $89,990 starting price
Lucid Air Sapphire debuts as the new top dog with exotic hypercar-rivaling specs:
- 1,234 hp and 0-60 mph in 1.89 seconds
- 205+ mph top speed
- 427 miles of range
- $249,000 starting price
For now, the Air Sapphire steals the crown as the quickest and most powerful EV at a staggering 1,234 hp. But the Model S Plaid counters with real-world performance, intelligent launch control, and a much lower price.
Lucid Air Sapphire Rolls Off the Assembly Line, Bringing a New EV Sports Sedan to Market
The Air Sapphire boasts advanced torque vectoring and suspension tuning to optimize its power. But it lacks Tesla’s neural network adaptive power management, Model S Plaid’s NACS system tailors motor output for perfect launches tailored to conditions.
Both sedans promise over 400 miles of range despite insane horsepower. But the Model S adds Tesla’s industry-leading fast charging network with 50,000+ Superchargers worldwide.
The Model S Plaid enables hands-free Autopilot driving assistance and soon full self-driving. Lucid’s DreamDrive Pro system offers similar capabilities but without neural net autonomy.
At double the price, the Air Sapphire needs to stand out. While its 1,234 hp and torque vectoring are impressive, the Model S Plaid’s proven combo of usable performance, ( with track package sets new lap record at Nürburgring), intelligent drivetrain, expansive charging, and advanced driver-assist gives it an edge for most buyers.
The Lucid Air Sapphire may claim the title of quickest production car ever built. But the Model S Plaid retains its all-around crown as the ultimate high-performance EV with thrilling speed most drivers can actually afford and enjoy. We’ll see if Lucid has additional tricks in store to take down the Tesla.