While the eyes of the world are on Niagara Falls (or Blackcircles is here), Germany or Asia, for the world’s unveiling of the all-new 100% electric Porsche Taycan, tire manufacturers are jubilant. At least five of them, since they managed to meet the great demands of the German manufacturer and will be designated as the official tire supplier for the new car.
The Porsche Taycan, which is scheduled to arrive in Canada in February 2020, is Porsche’s first 100% electric car. Innovative, it’s full of technology but has not forgotten the most important aspect of it’s personality, the performance.
With its battery of 93.4 kw, the Taycan offers a range of nearly 400 kilometers. And, with the right tools, a recharge capacity of 80% in less than 22.5 minutes. But it is in terms of power that the car explodes: 0-100 in 2.6 seconds, and 0-200 in 9.8 seconds! A good way to make all the other Porsches in the family blush.
The system has also been designed for long lasting use. Thus, the engineers managed to push the machine and make 26 accelerations before the battery is no longer charged!
On the road
But the Taycan takes over where all Porsche stands: it is a real track beast. Two engines, one at the front and the other at the rear, as well as the rear directional wheels, allow an exceptional road holding, and a grip and an astonishing stability. Even the suspensions have been calibrated to ensure maximum performance, but also prevent excessive weight transfer.
In clear terms, even in emergency braking, the car does not move one iota. And believe me, to have attended as a passenger, it remains stoic on the track, despite the redoubled efforts of my pilot to destabilize it.
And it’s here that the tire manufacturers make their entry. Like the Porsche 911s, Taycan’s performance is at the heart of the quality of the car. It required tires of 20 or 21 inches (depending on the version, Turbo or Turbo S) able to contain this power and provide the required braking capabilities.
It took five manufacturers – Pirelli, Michelin, GoodYear, Continental and Yokohama – to create their own tire design that meets Porsche standards. For the moment, we do not know what the standard tires will be at the time of arrival on Canadian soil, but know that you will be spoiled for choice.
The Taycan Porsche is a step forward in the future of Porsche. And in the future of the entire automotive industry. Quality tires had to be on the program, and Porsche did not hesitate.
To follow next February …
