The classic and beloved Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Corvette are going electric. Well, the former already has, and the latter launches at the end of 2023. Both are blisteringly fast, fun to drive, easy on the eyes and have at least 250 miles of range between charges comparable to their gas-powered siblings.
The Mustang Mach-E has been a bestseller since it was launched in 2021, and the debut Corvette E-Ray is expected to be similarly successful.
Ford Mustang Mach-E
If you are expecting a sexy low-slung convertible, the Mach-E is not it. Ford took a lot of flak for naming an SUV after the beloved pony, but its sports car-like handling, price and interior features have put an end to that. This is a Mustang you can pile the family into and still get the galloping horse logo on the front and on the steering wheel.
Base price is $42,995; the souped-up GT version is $59,995; and the street-legal racer Dark Horse is around double that.
Even the basic model has a 250-mile range between charges, which increases with each trim level, to more than 300 miles. Horsepower is between 311 and 350 depending on model, and it’s available with all-wheel drive.
One convenient feature is the Mach-E’s drainable frunk, which can be filled with ice to use as a cooler or used to store your muddy boots or tent. Simply drain or hose it out, and it’s ready for groceries!
Advanced comfort and security features are standard in all models, plus heated front seats, wireless charging and a panoramic sunroof. Drivers can also set up their phone as a key, so no more fumbling with a fob.
The large 15.5-inch touchscreen can also be programmed to recognize up to three driver profiles, making the Mach-E models a popular choice for police departments, including New York City.
Corvette E-Ray
This looks like a traditional Corvette Stingray on the outside, but everything else about it is new and different, including being the first Corvette with all-wheel drive.
Not a pure EV, this is a hybrid with a 160-horsepower motor powering the front wheels and a 495-horsepower V8 powering the back wheels, for a top speed above 180 mph. The batteries are in between, at the floor of the chassis, helping the E-Ray hang tight on turns.
Because of the extra weight of the motors and battery, the E-Ray features lightweight carbon ceramic brakes similar to those normally found on racecars. And because it is a hybrid and not fully electric, Chevrolet can pack in an 8-speed transmission.
The steering wheel is squared, also like a racecar. General Motors says the deep wrap-around sets are inspired by jet fighters.
It has an underwhelming estimated electric range of under 20 miles and up to 45 mph – what GM is calling “stealth mode,” before switching over to gas. So, the EPG is an equally unimpressive 20-ish miles per gallon, about the same as the non-hybrid, fully gas-powered Stingray.
What is impressive is the power of the E-Ray. Chevrolet claims it launches from zero to 60 in under three seconds, making it one of the fastest ’Vettes ever.
Starting price is $104,295 for the coupe, with a removable roof panel and $111,295 for the convertible, which is about double the price of the gas-powered Stingray. You’re paying to be the first one on the block to drive the E-Ray.
There are plans to launch an EV Corvette SUV, which would compete with the Mustang Mach-E, planned for 2025/26 – unless its price is double.
More EV Sports Cars
High on speed, style and luxury – with the price tag to match.
Fisker Ronin
This boutique manufacturer is U.S.-based, founded by Henrik Fisker, a longtime designer and engineer for Aston Martin, famous for its James Bond cars. This vehicle features a solar roof to power heating, cooling and the entertainment system, saving battery power for driving range.
If you have a well-charged bank balance, this drooler starts at $385,000.
Pinanfarina Battista Hypercar
At 1,900 horsepower, it’s the most powerful Italian car in history, and its sweeping gullwing doors make it one of the most beautiful. Just 150 are being produced, so you know you won’t see yourself coming and going on the road.
The base price starts at an “affordable” $2.2 million.
Fulminea EV Hypercar
Fulminea means “lightning fast” in Italian, a good name for a vehicle able to rocket to 200 mph in under ten seconds. It is produced by boutique sports car maker Automobil Estrema.
All for the “low” price of $2.1 million.
AAA’s Recommendation: Whether you own an electric vehicle or a gas-powered car is up to you – and you should consider lots of factors in making that choice. No matter what type of vehicle you’re choosing, we recommend visiting a dealership, test driving one, and asking as many questions as possible to make an informed decision.
