The production version of the fully-electric Porsche Taycan has been revealed ahead of an Australian launch in the fourth quarter of 2020.
At launch, Porsche will offer the Taycan Turbo and Taycan Turbo S trim levels. The Turbo packs 500kW and 850Nm which means it can sprint from 0-100km/h in 2.8 seconds.
The flagship Turbo S version can generate up to 560kW and 1050Nm which reduces the dash to triple figures to 2.8 seconds. Both models feature a top speed of 260km/h.
There’s a two-speed transmission installed on the rear axle, developed by Porsche. First gear gives the Taycan even more acceleration from a standing start, while second gear with a long gear ratio ensures high efficiency and equally high power reserves. This also applies at very high speeds.
When the 93.4kWh performance battery pack is fully charged, the Turbo S has a driving range of up to 412km, while the Turbo can cover up to 450km according to WLTP cycle.
Each variant has an electric motor on the front axle and rear axle, thus making the cars all-wheel drive.
The Taycan is the first production vehicle with a system voltage of 800 volts instead of the usual 400 volts for electric cars. This means that 100km of range can be replenished in five minutes with a compatible charger. Taking the battery from five to 80 per cent takes as little in 22.5 minutes.
Porsche is using a centrally networked control system for the Taycan chassis. The integrated Porsche 4D Chassis Control analyses and synchronises all chassis systems in real-time. The system comprises adaptive air suspension with three-chamber technology including PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) electronic damper control, as well as the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control Sport (PDCC Sport) electromechanical roll stabilisation system including Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus).
There’s also a unique energy recuperation system. At up to 265kW, the potential recuperation power is significantly higher than that of competitors. According to Porsche, driving tests have shown that approximately 90 per cent of everyday braking is performed by the electric machines alone – without the hydraulic wheel brakes being activated.
When it comes to the exterior design, the four-door Taycan retains plenty of Porsche DNA. It’s long, low and wide with a sloping roofline, pronounced shoulders and a typical Porsche rear end with an integrated light bar.
On the inside, the layout is new and showcases a new direction for the brand. The highlights include a free-standing, 16.8-inch curved instrument cluster and a central 10.9-inch infotainment display. All user interfaces have been newly designed for the Taycan. The number of classic switches and buttons has been greatly reduced. Instead, control is intelligent and intuitive – using touch operation or the voice control function, which responds to the command “Hey Porsche”.
For the first time, Porsche will offer an entirely leather-free interior. The cabin will make use of recycled materials to underscore the sustainable concept of the electric sports car.
To provide high levels of comfort, rear passengers get recesses in the battery in the rear footwell called ‘foot garages’.
Two luggage compartments are available: the front section has a capacity of 81L while the rear can hold 366L.
The Taycan will arrive in Australia in the fourth quarter of 2020. Porsche will announce local pricing in early 2020, at which time formal orders will also open. In the meantime, Porsche advises interested buyers to submit an official expression of interest with their local Porsche Centre.
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