On April 30th, pulsestacks reported that during the 2024 Beijing International Auto Show, pulsestacks was invited to discuss the new Porsche Taycan model with Mr. Kevin Giek, Vice President of the Taycan product line. Focusing on the recently launched Porsche Taycan models, especially the Taycan 4 tailored specifically for Chinese consumers, they delved into Porsche's latest developments.
Interview Date: April 25, 2024, 14:00-14:30
Interviewee: Kevin Giek - Vice President of the Taycan Product Line
Kevin Giek - Vice President of Taycan Product Line
· Exclusive to China - Recap of Taycan 4 New Car Information
Taycan 4 is tailored for Chinese consumers, offering not only stronger power but also groundbreaking improvements in range and charging speed. It comes standard with a 105 kWh high-performance upgraded battery, delivering an output power of 380 kW (517 PS) and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds.
The new Taycan 4 comes standard with many high-value features, including adaptive air suspension, Porsche Sport Chrono package, and all-new LED matrix headlights. In addition to performance upgrades, features like the BOSE surround sound system, electronic sports car sound, parking assistance system with panoramic imaging, comfort access system, 14-way power-adjustable seats, privacy glass, and dual electric charging port covers enhance the enjoyment of pure driving pleasure.
Thanks to improved pulse inverters, optimized software, enhanced thermal management systems, a new generation of heat pumps, improved energy recovery and four-wheel drive strategy, as well as a maximum energy recovery power of up to 400 kW, the new Taycan 4 achieves a range of 676 km under CLTC comprehensive conditions. Additionally, as a China-exclusive model, it comes equipped with many high-value features, including adaptive air suspension, Porsche Sport Chrono components for a richer driving experience; BOSE® surround sound system, electronic sports car sound, parking assistance system with panoramic imaging, comfort access system, 14-way power-adjustable seats, privacy glass, and electric charging port cover, making the driving experience more enjoyable; while the new matrix beam LED headlights with sophisticated high-tech optical elements enhance safety during driving.
First, Mr. Kevin Giek introduced the highlights of the new Taycan 4 model to the journalists present:
We have designed a completely new front end and headlights for the new Taycan 4, such as the new LED matrix headlights, which contain 32,000 LED bulbs, providing a front lighting distance of up to 600 meters, creating a remarkable lighting effect like a beam carpet.
The fenders feature unique designs, and Porsche has introduced new car paint colors, as well as new wheel designs and styles. The wheels have been designed after careful consideration of aerodynamics to reduce air resistance.
We will also introduce adaptive air suspension as a standard feature in the new Taycan 4. The power battery is of the NMC811 high-voltage charging type, with a capacity increased to 105 kWh. Therefore, in terms of charging capability, the new charging equipment we are introducing can charge from 10% to 80% in 18 minutes. The model has a range of 676 kilometers under CLTC comprehensive conditions.
Kevin Giek - Vice President of Taycan Product Line
We have improved its overall efficiency by 35%. In terms of range, depending on the model and differences, it has increased by approximately 30-35%. The new introduction is a brand-new rear electric motor designed specifically for the Taycan, with an efficiency improvement of 5-7% compared to the old motor, reaching a maximum power of 380 kilowatts. The Taycan 4 is designed specifically for the Chinese market. All modifications and upgrades are guided by information provided by the Porsche China team and finalized by Porsche headquarters.
The rear of the car features new lighting design, including a new taillight. One minor drawback is that due to market regulations, the "Porsche" logo at the rear only lights up when starting and arriving (at the end of a journey), whereas in other parts of the world, it can remain illuminated continuously, which looks very attractive.
The new electric motor and updated transmission system software allow our energy recovery to reach 400 kilowatts, a significant increase from the previous 270 kilowatts of the old engine.
We have also introduced a new interior option: a leather-free interior. Take a look inside, it showcases a completely new design with a leather-free interior. For this model, we offer the Bose sound system as standard, along with all-wheel drive. An updated infotainment system has been launched as well. This means that we will provide a special infotainment system for the Chinese market based on demand, applicable to all models. While this feature is currently introduced in this model in China, all Taycan models will come equipped with this functionality. We have partnerships with platforms like WeChat, Bilibili, QQ Music, and Baidu Maps.
Kevin Giek - Vice President of the Taycan Product Line
Reporter Question: The first generation Taycan has already been a leader in the industry with its 800-volt high voltage system and gearbox. How will the second generation Taycan continue to lead the electric vehicle industry?
Kevin Giek: In this model, we have retained the gearbox because our top models require it to achieve maximum efficiency at high speeds and the necessary torque at low speeds. This is why we have kept the gearbox for the Taycan. We have also maintained the 800-volt voltage, as everyone is now considering higher voltages. We have completely updated the high-voltage charging system: it is a brand-new internal device; it is a combination boost charger, but we have decided to keep the 800-volt voltage because all other components are designed for 800 volts.
The maximum power of the Taycan 4 is 380 kilowatts, the Turbo S boasts a maximum power of 700 kilowatts, and the Taycan Turbo GT with Weissach Package, equipped with Weissach components, reaches a maximum power of 760 kilowatts. We offer the Taycan 4, Turbo, Turbo S, and Taycan Turbo GT to meet all customer expectations. However, the Taycan 4 is specifically designed for the Chinese market and Chinese preferences.
The Taycan 4 accelerates from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in just 3.9 seconds, the Turbo S in 2.4 seconds, and the Taycan Turbo GT with Weissach Package in 2.2 seconds.
Reporter Question: China has unique driving habits, road infrastructure, regulations, and complex classifications of road users. What adjustments have been made for testing the Taycan in China? While the Taycan is known for its moose test and excellent driving performance, what changes have been made for ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) that Chinese consumers are concerned about? How does the localization adaptation compare to overseas models?
Kevin Giek: Currently, our driving system is globally standardized without distinctions like U.S., European, German, or Chinese versions. We offer two levels of assistance systems: basic and advanced versions. This system is similar, if not almost identical, to those used in the Panamera, Cayenne, and Taycan. We employ nearly the same equipment and technology, but it is not fully autonomous driving. Therefore, we refer to it as the Porsche Intelligent Driving System (Porsche inno drive). It allows you to set speeds, recognize all signs, automatically adjust speeds, and maintain lane position, but the Taycan is not fully autonomous.
Reporter Question: This generation and the previous ones are all based on the J1 platform. What significant reforms can we expect for the platform in the future?
Kevin Giek, Vice President of the Taycan product line:
Currently, the Taycan is still based on the J1 platform. Looking ahead, there will definitely be new platforms developed in the future. At present, the Taycan is still based on the J1 platform. For example, most of the platform remains the same, all based on the J1 platform, but when designing this car, some new elements were incorporated. For instance, there have been some modifications made to the core inside the battery. Originally, it was NMC622, and now it is NMC811. The battery has been modified, enhancing its performance. Therefore, even though the platform is almost the same, we have many new changes.
Reporter's Question: Have you visited the booth of a Chinese electric car manufacturer today? If so, what are your positive thoughts and what improvements do you think we need to make?
Kevin Giek: I took a look this morning and saw the Chinese electric cars. They look very stylish, some are similar to Taycan. From sedans to SUVs, there is a full range of electric vehicles in the Chinese market, presenting a great opportunity. However, I still believe our design is the best.
Closing Thoughts:
Clearly, Porsche must pay attention to Taycan's performance in the Chinese market. It is a high-end, luxurious, and fun-to-drive sports sedan that combines high performance with practicality. The Taycan 4 model developed specifically for Chinese users ensures driving safety with all-wheel drive and appropriate performance, reducing the risk of loss of control with high horsepower rear-wheel drive.
Undoubtedly, China's smart electric car sector is rapidly rising, reshaping the global automotive landscape. Porsche continues to be popular in the high-end market with outstanding design, reliable quality, and enjoyable driving performance. However, Porsche's sales in China have recently shown a downward trend. It is believed that Porsche headquarters also feel a sense of urgency about this. The Macan EV and Taycan 4 models unveiled at the 2024 Beijing Auto Show are clearly key players that Porsche is counting on to boost sales. With both models making a strong push, Porsche is expected to increase its presence in the high-end new energy vehicle market, which is something to look forward to.
