The Porsche Taycan Turbo GT: A Radical Approach to Building the Ultimate EV
Introduction:
The Porsche Taycan Turbo GT is not your typical electric vehicle. Built by a small, skunkworks team led by chief engineer Christian Müller, this ultimate EV pushes the boundaries of what is possible in electric performance. With features like a rear-seat delete, bespoke tires, and a focus on aerodynamics, the Turbo GT is a radical departure from traditional Porsche models. Despite its extreme capabilities on the race track, the Turbo GT remains approachable and fun to drive, making it more than just a lap-time machine.
1. The Birth of the Taycan Turbo GT: A Radical Prototype
A few years ago, Stefan Weckbach, then chief engineer for the Porsche Taycan, created a strange prototype that would later become the Turbo GT. With a focus on power and performance, Weckbach and his team pushed the limits of what an electric vehicle could do. The prototype, with its unique features and impressive performance, caught the attention of Porsche test driver Lars Kern, who approved of the project.
2. Evolution of the Turbo GT: From Prototype to Production
After Weckbach’s prototype, the Turbo GT project was revived by Kevin Giek, who gave the team unprecedented freedom to build the ultimate EV. With a small development team answering only to Giek and Porsche’s board, the Turbo GT began to take shape. The car features a number of upgrades compared to the Taycan Turbo S, including a new silicon-carbide inverter, aero treatments, and unique forged wheels.
3. Innovation and Radical Design Choices
The Turbo GT’s development process allowed for radical design choices that wouldn’t happen in a traditional Porsche model. Features like the rear-seat delete, bespoke tires, and lightweight components were all part of making the Turbo GT a high-performance machine. With a focus on speed and agility, the Turbo GT stands out as a unique addition to Porsche’s lineup.
4. Setting Records and Pushing Boundaries
With a focus on performance, the Turbo GT set out to conquer the Nürburgring and claim the title of the fastest electric sedan. With an impressive lap time of 7:07.55, the Turbo GT not only beat out the Tesla Model S Plaid but also became the fastest sedan to ever lap the track. The Turbo GT’s speed and handling capabilities solidify its place as a true performance machine.
5. Approachable Performance and Driving Experience
Despite its extreme speed and capabilities, the Turbo GT remains approachable and fun to drive. With a focus on creating a well-rounded package that delivers on all fronts, the Turbo GT offers more than just track performance. It is a car that is enjoyable to drive on a daily basis, making it a versatile and exciting addition to the Porsche lineup.
Conclusion:
The Porsche Taycan Turbo GT is a true testament to Porsche’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric performance. With its radical design choices, record-setting performance, and approachable driving experience, the Turbo GT sets a new standard for what an electric vehicle can achieve. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the Turbo GT stands out as a shining example of innovation and excellence in electric vehicle technology.