Tesla Model S vs Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid

If you thought electric cars were little more than tiny city runarounds, then think again. Ambitious American brand Tesla is aiming to redefine how we think about battery-powered vehicles.

• Tesla Model S review

• Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid review  

Founded just 10 years ago, the company wants to engage affluent early adopters with desirable high-end electric cars. Its long-term aim is to emulate the Silicon Valley business model that’s seen tablets and smartphones go from being the must-have gadgets of the wealthy few to the mainstream big-sellers of today.

Firstly, the brand launched its Lotus Elise-based Roadster, and now there’s the stunning Model S luxury saloon. With a claimed 310-mile range and high performance, it promises to rewrite the rules. There have been 20,000 sold in the US, plus it’s the biggest-selling car in Norway. Right-hand-drive models arrive in the UK this March.

So can the Tesla Model S switch us on to a luxury performance EV? And how will it fare against the Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid plug-in? This supersaloon boasts high- performance pedigree and eco-friendly credentials in equal measure. We put the pair head-to-head...

Head-to-head

Weighing in

The Model S is just 5kg heavier than the Panamera S E-Hybrid. The Tesla’s battery forms the floorpan of the car in a rigid structure, lowering the centre of gravity. The Porsche’s much smaller battery is located below the boot floor and behind the fuel tank. Both cars benefit from near-50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution.

Badge appeal

Tesla is virtually unknown in the UK right now, but in the US it’s already become a highly aspirational brand, with premium outlets and a trendy celebrity customer base. However, there’s no doubting the long-established prestige and reputation of the Porsche badge.

Charging options

While the full EV Tesla is at the mercy of charging point availability, the Porsche’s E-Charge mode allows you to recharge the battery on the move. Alternatively, if you do plug the Panamera in to the mains, it can be fully charged in around two-and-a-half hours. Porsche also offers a home charging unit and, in common with the Tesla, you can programme the car to charge at low-cost times or pre-warm the interior for you.

Future models?

Tesla will launch the Model X this year. It’s an SUV-inspired crossover based on the same floorpan and technology as the Model S. It’ll be the second car in the range now that Roadster production has ended.

1st place - Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid

The Porsche makes more sense for more people than the Tesla – for now. It has decent range and top speed in full-electric mode, yet it’s not totally reliant on charging points. It’s nearly as quick as the Model S, plus it handles better and has a plusher cabin. But it’s expensive to buy and costs more to run.

2nd place - Tesla Model S

Tesla's Model S is the most convincing electric car we’ve driven. It’s an astonishing achievement for a small company and if it fits your driving needs, it could save you thousands of pounds in running costs. But until charging infrastructure improves, its real-world appeal is limited, so it comes second.