The Macan is Porsche’s second electric vehicle. The Taycan led the charge, and was executed very well. Despite a revised model expected this year, I really can’t fault the original Taycan both on and off the track. With Porsche’s commitment to 80% electric by 2030, it’s important that they get their initial vehicles spot on. And a lot is riding on this launch specifically. The Macan has been Porsche’s secret weapon, slowly gaining popularity over the years and now selling well over 10 times that of its siblings the 911, and the Taycan.

Pia Muehlenbeck

Electric cars rely on a low drag coefficient to glide through the wind as smoothly as possible. Despite the incredible raw power that comes from an electric drive train, wind resistance is actually the biggest enemy of EV’s.

The Macan employs some unique modifications from the previous generation to enable it to stay as aerodynamic as possible when driving. The ‘brow’ over the rear window is gone, and instead is replaced by an active spoiler that funnels air in the right direction based on the speed and resistance the car is experiencing.

The lights and surrounding areas have taken inspiration from the Taycan and feature air scoops to guide wind correctly, and variable wind deflectors in the lower grill to maintain a balance between cooling and resistance.

The regeneration tech also borrows from the Taycan’s incredible power system to push up to 240kwh back in to the battery during braking to ensure maximum range.

It’s clear to see the direction that Porsche are heading visually with their new iterations of existing models; a sleeker look with a bigger focus on Porsche’s flyline, and the split four point daytime running lights will likely become a mainstay across the entire electric range moving forward.

Personally, I find this point in the EV transition to be very exciting. Up until now, there have only been a few key players and for the customer, this means only a few choices. Now, we’re seeing more established brands join the EV train and the snowball effect is really starting to become noticeable.

It’s important to remember that we’re not going to say goodbye to petrol cars for a while. Battery technology and charge infrastructure need to improve drastically before cross country road trips can be a no-brainer. But with the Macan offering a 600km range, the options for the average daily driver are getting better by the day.

Kane Vato – Editor in Chief

Disclaimer:

* When tested on the track under test conditions.

^The published electricity consumption (kWh per 100 km), charging times (hours/minutes) and kilometre (km) range are estimates determined in accordance with the Worldwide Harmonized Light-Duty Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) – see www.porsche.com/wltp. The WLTP is the test procedure used in the European Union and does not apply in Australia, where the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) remains the appropriate test standard under ADR 81/02. Actual figures will vary as they are dependent on many factors including driving style, road and traffic conditions, weather conditions, a vehicle’s features, equipment, accessories, condition, load and use. Extra features and accessories (attachments, tyre formats, etc.) can change relevant vehicle parameters such as weight, rolling resistance and aerodynamics can also affect the electricity consumption and performance values of a car. The published charging times are estimated using the vehicle’s charging equipment and European charging facilities, with the battery temperature under optimum conditions and the vehicle having an initial charge status of 5%. CO₂ emissions can also be generated at the power source when vehicles are being charged, unless 100% renewable energy is used. As Australian models have not been tested in accordance with the NEDC procedure, the published figures do not apply in Australia and must not be relied upon in making a decision as to whether to purchase a vehicle. Please contact an Official Porsche Centre to obtain more information.

The published fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions figures are determined by Porsche AG laboratory testing in accordance with ADR 81/02 on test vehicles. Actual figures will depend on many factors, including without limitation: road and traffic conditions, fuel quality, environmental conditions, individual driving style, vehicle load, vehicle condition and use (including any additional equipment and/or accessories) and how the vehicle is driven. For hybrid or electric vehicles, CO₂ emissions can also be generated at the power source when vehicles are being recharged, unless 100% renewable energy is used. Generally, fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions will differ from the published figures in real world driving conditions. Published figures should only be used for the purpose of comparison between vehicles.

Blueprint of Tomorrow (Kane Vato & Pia Muehlenbeck) were hosted by Porsche Australia for this event.