Last week, we told you about the new Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport, a $2.1 million supercar powered by a 1,001-horsepower 16-cylinder engine that positively bellows while rocketing its über-wealthy owner to a top speed of 253 miles-per-hour.
But while most of us have grown up equating that internal combustion roar with unbridled acceleration, the dawn of the electric car era means high-performance automobiles will soon sound a whole lot different. Like the Tesla Roadster, for example, a battery-powered two-seat sports car that delivers Ferrari-esque acceleration accompanied by a turbine-like whine reminiscent of the original Batmobile.
While the battery-electric models from Ford, Mini, Mitsubishi, and Nissan that will be hitting dealer showrooms over the next 12-18 months are built for efficiency more than speed, don't be surprised if the next car that blows your doors off does so with little more than a whoosh--and a maniacal laugh from its driver.
For a look at green cars you can buy today, check out these DriverTV "virtual showroom experience" videos.
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