As the push for electrification gains momentum, one sector that exemplifies the undeniable transition to battery-powered technology is the sports car class.
In the past, this exclusive sector of the market was dominated by high-octane, thrill-inducing vehicles. However, there has been a notable shift in recent times, with more and more competitors opting for lithium-ion batteries instead of traditional fuel. As a result, some of the most exceptional sports cars available for purchase are now electric.
This innovative power source not only surpasses the capabilities of traditional internal combustion engines in terms of power and performance, but it also expands the boundaries of what a high-performance car can truly embody.
Our list encompasses a wide range of vehicles, including classic low-slung sportsters, sleek coupés, powerful GTs capable of conquering continents, and yes, even a few SUVs (if we dare to mention them).
Within the realm of automotive craftsmanship, one can find vehicles crafted by renowned manufacturers known for their expertise in creating driver-centric cars, as well as those produced by brands typically associated with more modest offerings. However, the revolution of electric vehicles has played a significant role in equalizing the competition. Although these automobiles may appear diverse on the surface, they all share a common objective of providing an entertaining driving experience.
The market sector in question is known for its rapid pace, constantly welcoming new additions. As a result, some of the showcased cars are readily available for purchase and can be driven straight out of the showroom, while others are merely entries in an order book.
Fortunately, there is a continuous expansion in the range of choices available with each passing year. Now, without further ado, let’s delve right into it and explore the top-notch electric sports cars that can be purchased with your hard-earned money.
The top-notch electric sports cars stand out among the rest.
1. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
Despite its appearance, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N deserves to be classified as an electric sports car because of its exceptional performance and dynamic handling capabilities.
Right from the beginning, the performance division of the Korean brand dedicated themselves to creating the Ioniq 5 N as a vehicle that offers an unparalleled driving experience, and it unquestionably lives up to that promise. In fact, we not only awarded it the title of our top-performing car of 2024, but we would also go so far as to proclaim it as the ultimate electric car for driving enthusiasts.
The Ioniq 5 N harnesses its power from a dual electric motor configuration, with 223bhp allocated to the front wheels and 378bhp distributed to the rear. With a maximum output of 641bhp, this impressive setup enables the Ioniq 5 N to accelerate from 0-62mph in a mere 3.4 seconds.
In addition to selecting from six different drive modes, drivers have the ability to customize the motor’s reaction, adjust the stiffness of the dampers, fine-tune the weight of the steering, and modify the sensitivity of the stability control. Among the car’s more playful characteristics is its artificial engine noise, which offers the option of three distinct sounds.
Not only is the Ioniq 5 N an exceptional sports car, but it also proves to be highly practical for everyday use, thanks to its 84kWh battery that provides approximately 280 miles of range on a single charge, along with impressive maximum charging speeds of 340kW.
The tranquility, seclusion, and comfort of this place make it ideal for both commuting and indulging in the thrill of a track day.
The Porsche Taycan, coming in at number 2 on the list.
Porsche has made a significant entrance into the EV market, showcasing the kind of impact one would anticipate from a dominant player in the industry, albeit with a vehicle that may not align with conventional expectations
Unlike a traditional sports car, the Taycan is a slightly smaller four-door fast grand tourer that can certainly hold its own against the existing Panamera.
With its exceptional body control, impeccable balance, precisely calibrated controls, and tangible steering accuracy, the Taycan showcases remarkable qualities. The fact that it delivers an exceptionally smooth ride on its air suspension further enhances its allure, playing a pivotal role in our unanimous decision to bestow the Taycan with a perfect five-star rating following an extensive evaluation on the road.
Even if one were to navigate the roads blindfolded and with noise-blocking headphones, the unmistakable essence of a Porsche would still be evident in the Taycan. The precise steering, the remarkable nimbleness, and the meticulously tuned suspension all serve as undeniable indicators that this vehicle is undeniably born from the legacy of Zuffenhausen.
Even though there are multiple models available in the lineup, the exceptional qualities of the package are apparent even in the 532bhp 4S variant, which, despite being a lower-level option, still possesses supercar-level acceleration.
With a staggering 751bhp and a price tag of nearly £140,000, the Turbo S variant reigns supreme as one of the most rapid and practical vehicles available. Its mind-blowing acceleration of 0-60mph in just 2.6 seconds solidifies its status as one of the fastest cars in existence. Additionally, the Taycan lineup offers the Sport Turismo and Cross Turismo editions, providing the options of an estate or off-road experience to complement the already impressive Taycan recipe.
In all fairness, a significant portion of our funds would be allocated towards the 590bhp GTS, a vehicle that offers an abundance of power and suspension configurations that are sure to please enthusiastic drivers. Furthermore, this model has an impressive range of nearly 300 miles, allowing for more time spent behind the wheel.
The Audi RS E-tron GT takes the third spot on our list.
Underneath its exterior, the Taycan, adorned with Audi’s RS initials, stands as the first electric car to embody the brand’s essence. Utilizing identical robust electric motors, with one motor per axle, as well as the same three-chamber air suspension, this vehicle shares its foundational architecture. Consequently, the battery pack is also retained, resulting in an impressive WLTP range of up to 285 miles and the capability for ultra-rapid charging at 350kW.
The implications of this are twofold. Firstly, the RS E-tron GT boasts an astonishing level of speed. To be precise, the top-tier model generates a remarkable 612lb ft and 637bhp, enabling it to achieve a 0-62mph acceleration time comfortably under 3.5 seconds.
While it may not possess the same level of panache and engagement as its Porsche counterpart, this vehicle still handles well, especially when it comes to steering.
Although the Audi offers a slightly more relaxed gait compared to the Taycan, the trade-off is not significant, especially considering the refinement advantages of an electric vehicle, making the Audi an equally attractive choice.
4. The Rimac Nivera
Rimac has managed to leave an indelible mark on the automotive industry within a remarkably brief timeframe. In just over ten years, this Croatian company, which originated in Mate Rimac’s humble garage, has evolved into a formidable entity that is now partially under the ownership of Porsche and spearheading the visionary path for Bugatti. Undoubtedly, this ascent can only be described as meteoric.
The Nevera, the latest addition to the Rimac empire, stands as the pinnacle of their success, surpassing the Concept One and C_Two show cars. The Concept One, with its groundbreaking 1073bhp power and £670,000 price tag upon its debut in 2017, is widely regarded as the catalyst for the electric hypercar trend.
Nearly all of the limited production run of the Nevera, totaling just 150 units, have reportedly been reserved by eager buyers. The recent achievement of a record-breaking electric vehicle top speed, surpassing 256mph, has only served to increase its allure for many.
The hardware is undeniably impressive, although it may cause some sticker shock. The vehicle is constructed with a composite tub as its foundation, and it boasts an electric motor for every wheel. The front wheels are equipped with independent single-speed gearboxes, while the back axle features two two-speed dual-clutch transmissions.
With a staggering 1888bhp and an impressive 1696lb ft of torque, the Nevera showcases its power. This enables it to accelerate from 0 to 62mph in a mere 1.95 seconds, reaching a top speed of 258mph. Additionally, its 120kWh battery provides an impressive range of up to 340 miles.
With its double-wishbone suspension, torque vectoring technology, and the capability of reaching level four autonomous driving, this car is equipped with all the latest features – and a staggering price tag of £2.4 million to match.
The Lotus Evija takes the fifth spot on our list.
The focus of recent Lotus headlines has been on the Emira, a sports car from the iconic British brand that aims to rival the Porsche 718 Cayman.
However, the company is touting this particular machine as their final model to incorporate a gasoline engine, as upcoming models will prioritize rapid charging instead of using unleaded fuel. A glimpse of what lies ahead has already been provided by the Evija, an electric hypercar that will be manufactured in a small batch of 130 units.
The sheer numbers may leave one feeling a bit overwhelmed. Lotus was taken aback when they discovered that the combined power output of the car’s four motors is actually 2011bhp, as opposed to the previously stated 1973bhp.
The weight of 1680kg, which is considered light in the realm of electric vehicles, will result in a sensation of freefall when it comes to performance. While specific performance statistics are scarce, Lotus anticipates a sub two-second acceleration from 0 to 62mph and a top speed exceeding 200mph.
However, Lotus is focusing on optimizing the car’s handling and dynamism rather than prioritizing raw statistics, resulting in a power delivery that gradually builds up, similar to the characteristics of a naturally aspirated engine.
While it remains to be seen how much the Evija retains traditional Lotus traits, if any electric hypercar can truly captivate as a driver’s car, Hethel’s endeavor is likely our most promising choice.
