Does a 0-60 time still matter in the BEV market?
13 December 2024
For decades, how quickly a car could go from 0 to 60mph (100kph) has provided an important indicator of desirability. But is this statistic still relevant in an increasingly electrified and varied automotive landscape? James Roberts, Autovista24 web editor, investigates.
Precise data and statistics are central to the automotive industry. When marketing a new vehicle, many carmakers highlight key metrics that help promote performance, economy, and durability. One long-standing measurement is focused on acceleration. More specifically, the 0-60mph metric.
The time it takes for a vehicle to reach 60mph from standstill, has long been recognised as a standard measure of linear acceleration. While only demonstrating one element of performance, it has proved enduring and evocative.
Whether a battery-electric vehicle (BEV) or internal-combustion engine (ICE) vehicle, manufacturers still include 0-60mph times when marketing new models. This is particularly true for higher-performance cars. Alongside power, top speed and range or fuel consumption, acceleration remains key to driving interest.
Subsequently, this statistic is a staple of vehicle-centred discussions and comparisons. However, is this metric truly indicative of a vehicle’s overall performance? In the era of fast-accelerating BEVs, combined with an increased consumer emphasis on range and energy consumption, is a low 0-60mph time still important?
Why is 0-60 important?
A quick 0-60mph time can serve as a status symbol. Behind the wheel, it represents the vehicle’s capabilities and the affinity for performance. However, it can also be seen as something that looks good on paper but is rarely fully exploited in the real world.
To accurately measure a vehicle’s 0-60mph time, specialised equipment and controlled conditions are essential. Both professional publications and carmakers typically conduct these tests at dedicated facilities. This includes bespoke automotive testing tracks or closed airport runways.
Generally, multiple acceleration runs are performed in opposite directions. This is to account for potential environmental factors like wind or road surface variations. Some testers combine a timed 0-60mph figure with a quarter-mile timed run.
‘Like many automotive performance statistics, a car’s 0-60mph figure is one that is typically only achievable under perfect conditions and with an experienced driver,’ stated Autovista Group senior residual value analyst Robert Redman.
‘In day-to-day motoring, it can only really be attempted on odd occasions, such as when leaving the front of the queue at traffic lights. At best, that achieves very little, and at worst, can result in serious damage to the car’s drivetrain,’ he added.
BEVs rewrite the 0-60 rules
Over a decade ago, when BEVs were a niche luxury product, acceleration was a key selling point. Early BEVs like the 2008 Tesla Roadster, could go from 0-60mph in under two seconds.
However, such vehicles were limited in range and practicality. To justify their premium price tag, manufacturers focused on showcasing their impressive acceleration.
This shift has significantly altered performance benchmarks and cascaded down into everyday BEVs currently on the market. Mid-range family cars now possess the acceleration capabilities of high-performance ICE models. Some even match the performance of these cars in terms of 0-60mph times.
‘Sure, the ability to launch a family sedan like a Lamborghini is amusing initially,’ Redman said. ‘However, the reality is that most roads are filled with slower traffic. This increases the risk of accidents.
‘Moreover, the silent acceleration of BEVs lacks the visceral thrill associated with high-performance internal combustion engines. A similar stunt in a petrol or diesel car would likely draw criticism, with other drivers labelling it as showboating or irresponsible,’ he added.
What makes BEVs so quick?
The BEV powertrain is more simple, with fewer moving parts compared to ICE vehicles. This streamlined design reduces energy losses, allowing for more efficient power delivery to the wheels.
Electric motors found in BEVs produce maximum torque from a standstill. This means they deliver full power immediately without a need to climb through a ratio of gears as is the case with ICE vehicles. This allows for smoother and quicker acceleration.
While acceleration metrics have historically been a significant marketing tool, particularly for BEVs, their relevance may diminish over time. As electric technology advances and battery capacities increase, the focus may shift from raw acceleration figures to other factors such as range, charging speed, and overall efficiency.
Range beats acceleration
While impressive acceleration can still excite consumers and differentiate products, it is likely to become less of a defining factor. As BEVs become more commonplace and their performance capabilities considered standard, their relatively rapid acceleration will become the norm.
‘In the past, BEVs primarily differentiated themselves through their notable acceleration,’ commented Autovista Group’s chief economist Dr Christof Engelskirchen. ‘While this remains a significant advantage, the focus is shifting towards a more balanced performance profile. Linear acceleration, a characteristic unique to BEVs, continues to captivate, but factors like range and charging infrastructure are gaining equal importance.’
‘The enhanced performance that comes with BEVs is nice to have,’ stated Redman. ‘Undoubtedly, some will choose the faster variant when purchasing a vehicle. However, that acceleration potential often comes with a reduction in the all-important range, especially if it is used too often.’
Today, reaching a speed above 100mph is achievable for the majority of new cars. Alongside this, a sub-10 second 0-60mph time is nothing unusual. In that respect, this benchmark has lost some of its relevance.
Changing attitudes
According to Redman, many motorists are less attracted by the allure of a quick 0-60 time. Instead, mid-range acceleration is more important in real-world conditions. Getting from 20mph to 40mph, or 30mph to 50mph, is essential for executing safe overtaking and accelerating out of corners.
‘For knowledgeable drivers, this is more important than the standing start time as it is utilised many times during a drive,’ confirms Redman. ‘That is one reason why such drivers will choose a large-capacity diesel over a petrol equivalent, as the former will often provide a much greater amount of mid-range torque. The 0-60mph time is also not an indication of a car’s overall driving experience. A dragster may have a blistering 0-60mph time, but try driving it through a winding mountain road.’
For BEVs, range is key. For prospective buyers, particularly those in sectors where tax benefits are not applicable, range remains critical. This is especially true for individuals who lack home charging options and rely on public or workplace infrastructure. Practicality, including sufficient boot space, is also a significant consideration for many.
According to Engelskirchen, as BEV development continues, priorities from both OEMs and consumers will continue to shift. This could see the importance of the once headline-grabbing 0-60mph figure slipping further down buyers’ list of priorities.
‘As BEVs mature and enter the mass market, the focus is shifting from peak performance to practical range,’ confirmed Engelskirchen. ‘Optimising factors such as battery efficiency, energy management, and aerodynamic design will be key to extending range, without compromising vehicle weight or cost.
‘While advancements in battery technology are promising, a comprehensive approach to vehicle engineering will be necessary to deliver affordable, long-range electric vehicles,’ he concluded.
