You’re at a stoplight, hands on the wheel of your brand-new electric vehicle (EV). The light turns green, and you’re off—not with the screech of tires, but with the silent, smooth surge that only an EV can provide. Now, we all know that electric cars are renowned for their brisk acceleration, but what about the other end of the spectrum? Yes, today we’re talking about the slowpokes, the Sunday drivers of the electric world—the slowest accelerating EVs you can buy in 2024.
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s set the stage with some context. The EV market is booming, with more than 300 individual configurations available, including various battery sizes, ranges, powertrain setups, and wheels. For this exploration, we’ve gathered data on approximately 250 configurations, focusing on their 0 to 60 mph acceleration times. It’s important to note that not all manufacturers list acceleration times for all their models, so there’s a bit of uncertainty involved, typically in the range of 0.1-0.2 seconds, especially when considering the 1 ft rollout subtraction for performance models like the Lucid Air or Tesla Model S Plaid.
Let’s talk speed—or the lack thereof. While the Lucid Air Sapphire tops the charts with a blistering 0-60 mph in 1.89 seconds, and several models break the sub-3-second barrier, we’re here to shine a light on the other end of the spectrum. Interestingly, about half of all listed EVs can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 4.5 seconds, and over 80% do it in under 6 seconds. But what about the ones that take their sweet time? Less than 40 out of about 250 configurations need between 6.0 and 9.0 seconds to hit 60 mph from a standstill.
These more leisurely EVs are a fascinating bunch. They may not have the lightning-fast reflexes of their top-tier cousins, but they offer a range of benefits that can be just as appealing. For instance, the Rivian R1T pickup, with its quad-motor powertrain, was once the least expensive model to hit 60 mph in about 3 seconds, with a price tag of $88,000. Fast forward to 2024, and we see that the market has adjusted, with even more affordable options providing impressive acceleration.
One of the standout surprises is the 2025 Volvo EX30 Twin Motor Plus AWD. With a 0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds and a price tag of $46,195, it’s a game-changer for the market, offering high performance at a relatively low cost. Similarly, the Tesla Model Y Performance remains a strong contender, with an estimated 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds and an effective cost of $46,630 after the federal tax credit.
But let’s not get too carried away with the speed demons. Our focus here is on the EVs that take a more relaxed approach to acceleration. These are the cars that remind us that the journey is just as important as the destination, and sometimes, taking a little longer to get there can be a good thing. They represent a diverse range of vehicles, from luxury sedans to rugged pickups, each with its own unique charm.
As we delve into the specifics of these slower accelerating EVs, we’ll consider factors like price, range, and overall value. We’ll also look at how these cars compare to their gas-powered counterparts and what they offer in terms of driving experience. After all, there’s more to a car than just how quickly it can go from 0 to 60.
Buckle up and get ready for a leisurely ride through the world of the slowest accelerating electric cars you can buy in 2024. Whether you’re in the market for a new EV or just curious about the latest trends, this is one journey you won’t want to miss.
Let’s shift gears and delve into the detailed look at the slowest accelerating electric vehicles of 2024. These cars may not set your pulse racing with their acceleration, but they offer a unique blend of features that cater to a different set of priorities.
The electric vehicle landscape is diverse, and while many buyers are drawn to the high-performance models, there’s a significant segment of the market that values efficiency, comfort, and sustainability over sheer speed. This is where the slower accelerating EVs come into play, offering a more relaxed driving experience without the aggressive torque and power of their faster counterparts.
Starting with the more modest performers, we have the Mercedes EQB 350 4Matic. With a 0-60 mph time of 6.0 seconds, it’s not the quickest off the line, but it offers a comfortable and luxurious ride that’s typical of the Mercedes brand. The EQB is a compact SUV that provides a practical and stylish option for families or individuals who prioritize space and comfort over speed.
A more laid-back model is the Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium ER RWD.
Clocking in at 6.1 seconds for the 0-60 mph sprint, this variant of the Mach-E offers a balance between performance and range. It’s a testament to the versatility of the electric vehicle market, showing that you can have a sporty, iconic nameplate without necessarily having the quickest acceleration.
The EQE 350 4Matic and its SUV version both reach 60 mph in 6.2 seconds.
These models are part of Mercedes’ EQ range, which is dedicated to electric mobility. They offer a refined and high-tech interior, with a focus on digital features and sustainable materials. The EQE models are perfect for those who want a premium electric vehicle that’s more about sophistication than speed.
For those who are looking for a more budget-friendly option, the VinFast VF 8 Standard Edition Eco might be a suitable choice. With a 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds, it’s on the quicker side of the ‘slow’ spectrum, but it’s still far from the top performers in terms of acceleration. However, it offers a competitive range and a modern design that may appeal to a wide range of buyers.
The Chevy Equinox EV 2RS eAWD hits 0-60 mph in just 5.9 seconds.
This electric iteration of the popular Equinox SUV is a clear indication of the shift towards electrification across all segments of the automotive market. It’s designed to be an accessible and practical electric vehicle for everyday use.
Moving on to the Tesla Model 3 RWD, it’s interesting to note that even Tesla, a brand synonymous with quick acceleration, has models that are more subdued in their performance. The Model 3 RWD has a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds, which is still brisk but not as jaw-dropping as some of its siblings. It’s a testament to Tesla’s commitment to offering a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets.
The Volkswagen ID.4 AWD Pro and Pro S both have a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. These models are part of Volkswagen’s ID series, which is at the forefront of the brand’s electric revolution. The ID.4 combines practicality with a clean and modern design, making it a strong contender in the family SUV category.
The BMW i4 eDrive35 rounds out our list with a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. This model is part of BMW’s expanding electric portfolio and offers a blend of the brand’s driving dynamics with electric efficiency. It’s a car that appeals to those who appreciate the BMW badge but are also conscious of their environmental footprint.
While these electric vehicles may not win any drag races, they each offer a compelling package of features that cater to a different set of priorities. Whether it’s luxury, practicality, affordability, or brand loyalty, there’s an EV for everyone—even if speed isn’t the top criterion. As the electric vehicle market continues to grow and diversify, we can expect to see even more options for consumers who prioritize different aspects of the driving experience over acceleration.
Remember, the joy of driving an electric vehicle isn’t solely measured by how quickly it can go from 0 to 60 mph. It’s also about the quiet, the smoothness, and the instant torque that can make even the slowest accelerating EVs a pleasure to drive. So, whether you’re cruising down the highway or navigating city streets, these electric vehicles prove that sometimes, slower can indeed be better.
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2024 U.S. Electric Cars Listed By 0-60 MPH Acceleration: Quickest To Slowest
The Fastest and Slowest Selling Cars in 2024
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