Porsche Introduces New Electric Macan with Impressive Specs and Pricing
Porsche has recently expanded its electric vehicle lineup with the introduction of the new electric Macan. The new model comes in different variants, including an entry-level model that offers 355bhp and an impressive range of 398 miles. With a starting price of £67,200 for the rear-wheel-drive version, the electric Macan is set to compete directly with rivals like the Jaguar I-Pace and the Polestar 4.
Porsche’s Transition to Electric Vehicles
The launch of the electric Macan marks an important milestone in Porsche’s plan to phase out petrol offerings and make electric models account for 80% of its global sales by 2030. The company aims to lay the engineering foundations for future electric models through the development of the Macan, according to Jörg Kerner, vice-president of the Macan product line.
Shared Platform and Design Cues
The new electric Macan has been developed alongside the Audi Q6 E-tron, sharing the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture and key components of its chassis, batteries, and power electronics. The design of the electric Macan takes inspiration from Porsche’s popular Taycan, featuring distinctive rectangular headlights and a wraparound LED rear light bar. The sleeker silhouette and retractable spoiler add to its aerodynamic appeal.
Impressive Performance and Range
The entry-level electric Macan comes with a single permanent synchronous motor attached to the rear axle, producing 355bhp and 415lb ft of torque. This setup allows for a 0-62mph time of 5.7 seconds. However, the key advantage of the single-motor configuration is its better range. Without the added weight of an all-wheel-drive system, the entry-level Macan achieves an impressive WLTP range of 398 miles.
In comparison, the four-wheel-drive models in the lineup use two permanent synchronous motors with a single-speed gearbox on each axle. The Macan 4, for example, delivers a combined 402bhp and 479lb ft of torque, resulting in a 0-62mph time of 5.1 seconds. The range for these models is slightly lower, with the Macan 4 achieving 381 miles, the Macan 4S achieving 376 miles, and the Macan Turbo achieving 367 miles.
Advanced Technology and Dynamic Performance
The interior of the new electric Macan matches that of the current Cayenne in terms of style and layout. It features up to three digital displays, including a curved instrument cluster and an infotainment touchscreen. The infotainment system is based on an Android Automotive operating system and offers a voice assistant feature. The longer wheelbase of the electric Macan allows for greater legroom in both rows and a boot space of 540 liters.
Porsche has developed the electric Macan to deliver class-leading dynamics, aiming to offer the sportiest model in its segment. The vehicle’s low center of gravity and precise steering contribute to a real sports car feeling. The Macan 4 comes with steel suspension and twin-valve dampers, while the Macan Turbo features a more advanced air suspension system with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and variable electronic damping control.
Future Plans and Production
Porsche plans to produce the new Macan alongside the petrol-powered version until the end of 2025 when the lineup will become exclusively electric. The company also has plans to launch a heavily updated version of the Taycan saloon and introduce the electric Cayenne, Boxster, and Cayman in the coming years.
In conclusion, the new electric Macan from Porsche offers impressive performance, range, and technology. It represents a significant step in Porsche’s transition to electric vehicles and sets the stage for future electric models from the brand. With its competitive pricing and strong specifications, the electric Macan is poised to make a mark in the electric SUV market.
