Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers have surged to the forefront of automotive performance, claiming the top three positions in worldwide 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration rankings. This dominance signals a shift in the global automotive landscape, where Chinese brands are no longer just competing on price—they’re now challenging established luxury and performance automakers on speed.
The Top Performers
The GAC Hyptec SSR 2024 Sprint Speed Edition leads the charge with an astonishing 1.9-second acceleration time, outperforming even hypercars from established brands. Following closely behind are the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra (1.98 seconds) and the Zeekr 001 FR 2025 (2.02 seconds), completing a clean sweep for Chinese automakers at the top.
The broader top ten includes several well-known names:
- Tesla Model S Tri-Motor (2.1 seconds)
- Porsche Taycan (2.2 seconds)
- Yangwang U9 (2.36 seconds)
- Lamborghini Revuelto (2.5 seconds)
- Tesla Model X Tri-Motor (2.6 seconds)
- BYD Han L (2.7 seconds)
- Maserati GranTurismo Folgore (2.7 seconds)
A Broader Trend
Further down the list, Chinese brands maintain a strong presence, with models from IM, Zeekr, and Yangwang securing positions among the fastest-accelerating production EVs. The Tesla Model 3 (3.1 seconds) also makes an appearance, demonstrating that the American automaker remains competitive.
This rapid acceleration isn’t limited to high-end vehicles either: the BYD Han L, priced under $40,000, proves that performance is increasingly accessible. By contrast, the Lamborghini Revuelto, nearing $900,000, shows that luxury brands are also pushing for top speed.
China’s New Vehicle Standards
The rise of these fast EVs comes as China reportedly considers new national standards for passenger vehicle acceleration. A draft proposal suggests that all new vehicles should default to a minimum 5-second 0-60 mph acceleration time. While the details are still being debated, this move could standardize performance capabilities and ensure all vehicles meet a baseline level of responsiveness.
The acceleration figures aren’t just about bragging rights. Faster acceleration is linked to safety—better merging, quicker overtaking, and improved overall responsiveness in critical driving situations.
This new standard would further cement China’s influence on automotive performance, ensuring that speed and agility are prioritized in the market.
The dominance of Chinese EVs in acceleration rankings is a clear indication of their growing technological prowess and ambition. These vehicles aren’t just fast; they represent a broader trend toward innovation and affordability in the electric vehicle sector.
