THE PORSCHE TAYCAN

This four-door coupé styled sports saloon is pitched straight at the Tesla Model S, though the Porsche has even sleeker lines. Porsche denies that Tesla was a key rival. The Tesla is more affordable and has a better range of up to 630 km. Meanwhile the Taycan looks a little like its stablemate Panamera. Although a little sleeker and more satisfyingly balanced.

Firstly, there are three types to choose from – 4S, Turbo and Turbo S. Horsepower differs according to choice, but even the entry-level car is very fast and powerful. The base 4S model delivers 522 or 563 horsepower according to battery. These include the Turbo, 670-hp and the Turbo S, a solid 750-hp. Taycan range is in the 301 to 346 km mark, dependent on the model. It’s worth mentioning that EV range diminishes when the weather is very cold.

A MOTORING BENCHMARK

Behind the Taycan’s great performance are two electric motors that drive all four wheels. Unique to the entire EV field is a two-speed transmission operating on the rear motor. For a bit extra, Taycan buyers can opt for an 800-volt fast charger that’s said to take the battery from five to 80 per cent charge in just over 22 minutes. Public EV charging facilities don’t always include fast charging but at least they’re becoming further widespread.

The Porsche Taycan is roomy inside given its styling and reasonably tall adults can sit comfortably in the rear seats. Buy the car with a rear centre seat for the occasional youngster. In addition to occupant space, the Taycan offers good luggage capacity. Boosted by a small compartment upfront, you’ll find this mostly in the rear. It’s good to see Porsche presenting an electric car with all the performance characteristics that reinforced the company’s name. Rival manufacturers with high-performance EVs at the design stage will be using the Taycan as a benchmark. Even so, not many of them will match its appeal.

THE VERDICT

ENGINE: Two electric motors driving all four wheels.

TRANSMISSION: Two-speed automatic.

ACCELERATION: Zero to 100 km/h 2.8-seconds.

TOP SPEED: 388 – 412 km/h.

I LIKED: Amazing performance, even for a torque-rich electric car. Excellent styling with better balance than Porsche’s Panamera. Quite good range for most users.

I DIDN’T LIKE: Very expensive at the high end of the range and less affordable than a Tesla Model S.

MARKET ALTERNATIVES: Tesla Model S and little else.

WHO DRIVES ONE? Porsche enthusiasts who have waited for the manufacturer to bring an EV to market. People new to the Porsche stable who want an exotic car from a well proven maker. Buyers tired of waiting for the many EVs promised by upscale makers who haven’t delivered.

PRICE AND AVAILABILITY: Shipping now starting at €108.337.

WORDS TONY WHITNEY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PORSCHE

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