Two electric supercars recently faced off in a quarter-mile drag race that showcased the growing competition in high-performance electric vehicles. The Tesla Model S Plaid battled the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra in a series of races that produced surprising results.
The Tesla Model S Plaid and Xiaomi SU7 Ultra delivered an electrifying showdown in high-performance EV racing.
The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra brought impressive credentials to the track. It produces over 1,500 horsepower from its triple-motor setup, providing a 500-plus horsepower advantage over its competitor. However, raw power doesn’t always guarantee victory in drag racing.
The Tesla Model S Plaid generates 1,020 horsepower and 1,047 lb-ft of torque from its triple-motor configuration. It weighs 2,190kg, making it 170kg lighter than the SU7 Ultra. This weight advantage proved important during the competition.
Initial races showed the SU7 Ultra struggling with traction due to cold tires. The Chinese-made vehicle consistently caught up to the Tesla at impressive rates as the races progressed. By the final race, both cars showcased their best performances.
In the decisive quarter-mile run, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra crossed the finish line in 9.3 seconds. The Tesla Model S Plaid completed the distance in 9.5 seconds, losing by a narrow margin. The race marked the quickest recorded time for Carwow’s Tesla driver. The Plaid’s official quarter-mile time stands at 9.2 seconds @ 153.0 mph. Recent studies show Tesla’s reliability improvements with scores dropping from 252 to 209 problems per 100 vehicles in 2025.
The Tesla demonstrates extraordinary acceleration metrics. It reaches 0-50 kph in 1.2 seconds and achieves 0-100 kph in 2.3 seconds. The car completes 0-160 kph in 4.5 seconds and 0-200 kph in 6.2 seconds. Its top speed reaches 322 kph.
Pricing positions these vehicles differently. The Tesla Model S Plaid starts at $109,990 in the US market, with current pricing ranging from $131,190 to $149,190. European buyers pay between €107,990 and €134,390, while UK customers face prices from £113,480 to £131,530. The SU7 Ultra commands a price of approximately $73,700 in China, making it significantly more affordable than its American rival.
This competition represents a significant moment in the electric vehicle market. Xiaomi’s entry into high-performance EVs challenges Tesla’s established dominance. The race demonstrates how quickly Chinese manufacturers are advancing in luxury performance segments, pushing technological limits and creating exciting competition for consumers.