Racing is difficult because of weight.
Speed is hindered by weight. It is more difficult to move the heavier it is. It can affect fuel economy, acceleration, as well as other aspects. This is not a problem with the Tesla Model X Plaid. It still impresses on the drag strip, even when it’s packed with six people.
DragTimes has released a new YouTube video that shows an electric SUV racing against a Porsche 911 Turbo S . The EV is faster than the stock Porsche 911 Turbo S and produces 1,020 horsepower (760kilowatts) via its all-wheel drive system. The EV weighs in at 5,333 pounds (2.419 kg) without passengers. This is much more than the Porsche’s 3,636-lb (1,649-kg). The Porsche produces a lot more power than the Porsche, with 640 horsepower (477 kW) & 590 pound-feet (890 Newton-meters), respectively, from its flat-six engine of 3.7-liters to all four wheels.
The Porsche is slow to leave the line in the first race. Both cars get off to a good start in the second race, with the Porsche jumping ahead of the Tesla. The Model X catches up to the Porsche just before the finish, completing the quarter mile in 10.326 seconds and 139.30 mph (224.18 km/h). It was followed by the Porsche with a 10.427 second time at 131.59 MPH (211.77 Kph).
The third race finishes with the same results. The Porsche accelerates off the line and takes a small lead but the Tesla manages to pass it before reaching the finish line. The Tesla pulls the drag in 10.367 seconds and reaches 138.67 mph (223.16 km/h). With a 10.481 second time at 132.19 MPH (212.74 KPH), the 911 Turbo S is right in front.
EVs can be made into performance beasts by automakers, but that often means a loss of range. These trade-offs will diminish as battery technology improves. All-electric transportation is possible and affordable. It is possible to have a 10-second SUV that can carry six people and crush Porsche at drag strip. But it is not necessary.