Why do electric cars accelerate faster than most gas-powered cars, even though they have less horsepower?

Question

Why do electric cars accelerate faster than most gas-powered cars, even though they have less horsepower?

In: Technology

Answer 1

I think the assumption in the question is wrong. Most very fast electric cars have gobs and gobs of horsepower. Tesla’s line up starts at nearly 300 horsepower and they have options up to 500 or more. 500 HP is A LOT.

But as other point out, excellent low end torque (and fancy traction control) can do a lot for vehicles when weight and power output are similar.