January 2, 2020

“The past is history. The present is past. The future is now.” Recognise this quote from Transformers: Age of Extinction? While there is distant hope for real-life transformers, right now, electric cars are undeniably the future of automobiles. They are not only more environmentally friendly (think: zero carbon emissions), but also more powerful than internal combustion engine vehicles. If this winning combination isn’t enough to convince you to go electric, these 5 extraordinary, state-of-the-art vehicles might just do the trick. 

Tesla Cybertruck

Tesla’s newest electric vehicle has been generating a lot of buzz, since Elon Musk is known for his off-kilter ideas. The Cybertruck comes in 3 different versions: a rear-drive Single Motor, Dual Motor AWD and a Tri-motor AWD set-up with two motors on the rear axle. Each allowing you to travel up to 250 miles, 300 miles and 500 miles respectively. Additionally, the Tri-motor model is said to be capable of 0-60 mph in under 2.9 secs—the fastest out of the three. Frame-wise, the Cybertruck uses ultra-hard 30x cold-rolled stainless for its body, eliminating dents, damage and long-term corrosion. On top of that, it has armour glass windows and autopilot and adaptive air suspension. Recently, Musk took the Cybertruck out for a spin in Malibu, causing a stir at Nobu, as guests stepped forth to snap photos of it.

Porsche Taycan

The Porsche Taycan rivals that of the Tesla Model S, but has the winning edge in terms of performance. Capable of achieving 0-60 mph in under 2.8 secs and 0-100 mph in under 7 secs, the Taycan also has better thermal management to prevent overheating. The Turbo S is equipped with carbon fibre discs and ten-piston calipers and has 0.4g of braking on regeneration alone, meaning that 265kW goes back into the battery. The statistics alone are unparalleled, which explain why this amazing car is so fast yet efficient. The Taycan also has a low centre of gravity, its own signature sound and amazing control (when it comes to steering and handling)—giving you a surprisingly smooth ride.

Rimac C_Two

Rimac strikes again but this time with the C_Two, successor to the Concept_One electric hypercar. Let’s start with the jaw-dropping numbers. This hypercar has a top speed of 258 mph. Additionally, the C_Two achieves 0-60 mph in 1.85 seconds and 0-100 mph in 4.3 seconds. Equipped with technology so advanced that you can switch from “full grip to extended drifting capability”, the C_Two defies conventional stability and traction control nannies. The car is decked with 8 cameras, a lidar, 6 radars and 12 ultrasonic sensors, making usual lane assist and autobraking a walk in the park. The on-board cameras have facial recognition just like your smartphone, to unlock your car and open the butterfly doors. If fog or rain is detected, the C_Two will adjust its drivetrain and traction management to keep you safe.

Damon Hypersport

Motorbikes have always been seen as a dangerous mode of transport, but the Damon Hypersport might just be able to change that. The Hypersport Pro is said to be equipped with CoPilot technology which has the capability to read roads via sensors, cameras and radar to pick up on the possible hazards around the motorbike and alert the rider. Vibrations will be sent through the handlebars should someone spring out while you’re checking your blind spots. Also, with the new Shift feature set on the Hypersport Pro, you can electronically adjust the bike’s ergonomics anytime. The windscreen, seat, footpegs and handlebars all slide and realign at the same time, going from tucked-in, high-speed supersport, to more relaxed sport-touring, all with a simple push of a button.

Harley-Davidson LiveWire

The Harley Davidson LiveWire is the first all-electric motorcycle to be produced and it doesn’t have a clutch. All you have is the throttle, with an intelligent reflex defensive riding system. The regenerative breaking returns power to the battery as well. The motor achieves 0-60 mph in 3.0 secs and delivers 104 bhp with 86 lb-ft of torque. Four driving modes are preprogrammed: Road, Sport, Rain and Range—allowing you to tweak the throttle mapping, maximum power available, traction control and regen level. For more personalisation, configure and save up to 3 individual settings. To top it off, there is an app that allows you to check on the charging status and alerts can also be sent to you if someone is messing around with your bike.

Image Credits: Tesla, Rimac Automobili, Damon Motorcycles