In anticipation of the forthcoming spring 2024 launch (which is about three to five months from now), Porsche’s extensively revamped version of the Taycan, the all-electric sports car, is currently in the final stages of intensive testing. The Taycan sports sedan, Cross Turismo, and Sport Turismo models of the new generation have collectively covered an impressive 3.6 million test kilometers across proving grounds, racetracks, and public roads globally.
Photo: Porsche
The testing process has not been for the faint-hearted, with the Taycan enduring extreme conditions ranging from scorching temperatures of +53 degrees Celsius in California’s Death Valley to bone-chilling -41 degrees Celsius north of the Finnish Arctic Circle.
Photo: Porsche
“Faster, higher, further” is the mantra guiding Porsche’s approach to the updated Taycan. After early computer simulations and comprehensive validations on test benches, the electric sports car is now undergoing the final phases of real-world testing on handling circuits and public roads. Kevin Giek, Model Line Vice President, expressed, “Faster, higher, further – we have improved the new Taycan in practically every discipline compared to its predecessor.”
Photo: Porsche
The testing program is likened to that of a new model due to the extensive changes introduced. All three body variants – the Taycan sports sedan, the versatile Taycan Cross Turismo (available with an off-road package), and the sporty-yet-practical Taycan Sport Turismo – will feature significant modifications from launch.
Photo: Porsche
Out of the 3.6 million test kilometers, 300,000 were completed in cold-country conditions, and 200,000 were in hot country locations. In the challenging conditions of Finland, north of the Arctic Circle, the Taycan showcased exceptional driving dynamics on snow and ice, demonstrating almost halved charging times in colder temperatures. The electric sports car navigated frozen lakes and deep snow, proving its capability in demanding winter conditions.
Photo: Porsche
Similarly, in the blistering heat of Death Valley, the Taycan underwent hot-country endurance tests. The Porsche development team rigorously tested the battery charging system and the reliability of the thermal management system under extreme temperatures.
Photo: Porsche
Florian Stahl, Head of Taycan Testing at Porsche, emphasized that “electric cars must undergo the same rigorous testing program as our combustion-engine sports cars.” He added, “Alongside exceptional performance, a key requirement is uncompromising day-to-day usability under all climatic conditions.”
As the substantially upgraded Taycan prepares for its market launch in a few months, it will have completed extensive worldwide tests in a total of 17 countries, facing temperatures ranging from -41 to +53 degrees Celsius. Porsche and electric car enthusiasts eagerly await the debut of the enhanced Taycan, poised to set new standards in electric sports car performance and reliability.
It is safe to say that we could expect the all-new Taycan to enter the Philippines once it is released, but it would definitely take some time.
