As electric cars gain relevance in the automobile industry, the major high-end marques are seizing the opportunity to lead in the luxury EV space. Popular manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz and Audi are building luxury EVs that promise superior performance, advanced technology, and eco-conscious designs.

In the automotive industry, high-end models are known for their refined driving experience, advanced features, better craftsmanship, and aesthetics. These EVs usually fall under categories such as battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs).

BEVs rely solely on electric power, PHEVs combine a rechargeable battery with a combustion engine while FCEVs are powered by hydrogen fuel cells. Each EV meets specific needs and diverse battery types such as lithium-ion.

BEVs are for those who drive short to medium distances with easy access to charging. PHEVs are for people who need a combination of electric power and petrol engines for flexibility. FCEVs serve the needs of users who need long-range and quick refuelling, especially where hydrogen infrastructure exists.

Each type addresses different aspects of range, convenience, and environmental impact, making them suitable for various user needs.

Here are some of the most luxurious brands with notable EV models to look out for.

Porsche Taycan

Porsche has taken its legacy of high-performance sports cars into the EV space by producing the Taycan EV.

The Taycan is available in several variants, including the Taycan Turbo and Taycan Turbo S. Both models deliver remarkable acceleration and handling. For instance, the Turbo S features a 938-horsepower output which allows the vehicle to reach zero to 96.5km/h in a brisk 2.3 seconds.

The Taycan interior is built with high-quality materials and cutting-edge technology. The Taycan Turbo S features a 10.9-inch touchscreen display on the front passenger side, giving them access to navigation and infotainment functions. It also features an additional 8.4-inch display for climate and navigation controls. With In-Car Video, passengers can also stream videos on the passengers’ display without distracting the driver.  Prices start at around $470,278 without COE (as of 27 Nov 2024). The prices in article are from sgcarmart, and not all include COE into the prices.

BMW iX

The BMW iX is BMW’s latest electric SUV that embodies luxury, utility, and sustainability. It is available in xDrive40 and xDrive50 configurations and offers power outputs ranging from 326 to 523 horsepower.

With a range of up to 400km and 600km respectively, the xDrive40 and xDrive50 compete well with other luxury EVs in the SUV category. This provides impressive acceleration and a smooth driving experience.

The interior of the iX matches BMW’s signature attention to detail. The iX is equipped with the latest in BMW’s iDrive technology and offers an intuitive infotainment system displayed on a curved 14.9-inch screen. The BMW iX xDrive40 costs $487,888 with COE (as of 27 Nov 2024).

Mercedes-Benz EQS

Mercedes-Benz entered the luxury EV market with the EQS—a fully electric luxury sedan that serves as the flagship model of its EQ lineup. The EQS can go on a stunning range of up to 770 km at a single charge and offers a quiet, smooth ride. With a power output of up to 658 horsepower, the EQS can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just under four seconds.

One of the EQS’s standout features is the MBUX Hyperscreen which allows drivers to navigate important driving information on the windscreen while keeping their eyes on the road. This luxury feature gives passengers access to entertainment and navigation controls. The interior is plush and serene, with ambient lighting, high-grade leather, and customisable options. The Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ Electric Art costs $550,888 with COE (as of 27 Nov 2024).

Audi e-tron GT

Audi’s e-tron GT has top-notch performance and a sleek design. The sculptural design unites the dynamic proportions of a gran turismo with the unmistakeable characteristics of an Audi RS model. The e-tron G comes in both standard and RS variants and delivers between 469 and 637 horsepower. This enables it to reach 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds in its most powerful configuration.

With a charging system of 800 volts and a maximum charging capacity of 270 kWh, the battery charges from 5% to 80% in less than an hour. The RS e-tron GT offers a range of around 534 km, ideal for both city driving and longer trips.

The e-tron GT’s interior focuses on the driver and everything is designed to make driving enjoyable. The sports seats are comfortable yet supportive, making them perfect for long drives or fast corners. The steering wheel is also sporty and easy to grip, giving you full control.

The vehicle’s cockpit has a 10.1-inch central display showing everything you need, from speed to navigation so you never have to take your eyes off the road. The Audi RS e-tron GT costs $824,675 with COE (as of 27 Nov 2024).

Rolls-Royce Spectre

Rolls-Royce has made its way into the electric world with the Spectre. This luxurious EV has debuted as the brand’s first fully electric vehicle and is also the most intelligent Rolls-Royce ever.

With 141,200 sender-receiver functions and more than 25,000 sub-functions, this EV has the ability to process complex data and share information effortlessly. It also features over seven driver assistance systems that help to enhance your driving experience.

The Spectre features the SPIRIT digital system – an extension of the Rolls-Royce Architecture of Luxury. SPIRIT manages the functions of the Spectre vehicle and smoothly blends with Whispers,  Rolls-Royce’s exclusive owners app. This allows you to remotely interact with your car and get live information about your car’s performance delivered by luxury intelligence specialists.

The Rolls-Royce Spectre offers a whisper-quiet ride, exceptional power, and the unmatched craftsmanship that defines Rolls-Royce vehicles. It offers an impressive range of about 520 km per charge. The Spectre costs $2,138,888 without COE (as of 27 Nov 2024).

The Discerning Electric Drive

As zero-emissions cars are de riguer in the coming years, more luxury marques are joining the EV bandwagon. The discerning motorist is definitely spoilt for choice with the wide range of EVs available from these marques, as more will hit the road very soon!