Top Speed
Top speed is the highest speed a car can reach, limited by power, drag, gearing or an electronic limiter.
What is Top Speed?
Many cars are electronically limited, often to around 250 km/h for powerful models. Electric cars often have lower limits to protect range and the motor. Tyres must have a speed rating that matches the car’s top speed. Some manufacturers raise the limiter as a paid option on high-performance models.
How it works
At top speed, the engine or motor power is fully used to overcome air resistance and rolling resistance.
Why it matters for your car
Public roads have legal speed limits far below most top speeds. Never fit tyres with a lower speed rating than required.
Other terms
- Brake Assist
- Charge Air Pipe (Boost Hose)
- Coil Spring Compressor
- Dashboard Protectant
- Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC)
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
- Dwell Time (Coil Charge Time)
- Fuel Tank
- Headlight Condensation (Moisture In Headlights)
- High-pressure Fuel Pump
- Leaf Spring
- Leak Detection Pump (EVAP Leak Check)
- MAP Sensor (Manifold Absolute Pressure)
- Mud Flaps (Splash Guards)
- Repair Estimate (Quote)
- Reversing Light (Backup Light)
- Stratified Charge Combustion
- Total Cost Of Ownership (TCO)
- Trolley Jack (Floor Jack)
- Unsprung Weight