Shares in the innovative EV maker have soared, but the journey has been stomach-churning.

The auto industry before might have seemed boring and slow-changing, but Tesla ( TSLA -4.97% ) has added excitement to the mix. It disrupted the market by bringing mass appeal to electric vehicles (EVs). And its success has resulted in a valuation of around $1.3 trillion.

Shareholders have captured huge returns along the way. If you invested $5,000 in this top EV stock five years ago, here's how much you'd have today.

Tesla shares have accelerated gains for investors

Tesla has been a monster winner. The stock has surged 186% higher in the past five years (as of Oct. 10), turning that $5,000 starting sum into $14,290 today. While the result is magnificent, it hasn't been a smooth ride.

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