Taycan Reviews and Videos
#76
RL Community Team
Rennlist Member
Rennlist Member
Thread Starter
Georg's review in Whatcar was really good. He usually delivers a solid analysis, and this one is one of the best I can remember him reading.
Interesting to read his musings on the future of Porsche EV's, and how this relates to existing Porsches, and competitors:
Interesting to read his musings on the future of Porsche EV's, and how this relates to existing Porsches, and competitors:
Originally Posted by Georg Kacher
Although the Taycan Turbo S performs like a Porsche, its Porscheness does not always ring through loud and clear. Even compared to the Panamera with which it shares its three-chamber air suspension, the EV sister model feels somewhat softer-edged and slicker-moving. It turns high speed into an easily accessible property, juggles expertly its mass and weight, holds the road as if tied down by a set of magic magnetic fields.
It’s hard not to keep comparing this Porsche to the hottest Tesla Model S, which is on paper every bit as quick and just as fast overall, even though it can’t outhandle the Taycan. But is eclipsing a 10-year-old rival by not a huge margin really the milestone effort everyone expects from a brand new, potentially pace-setting Porsche?
There are several answers to this question. One could argue that long-standing parameters like power output, torque, acceleration times and top speed are not necessarily the defining must-haves of a modern EV. After all, the laws of physics prevent motor cars to catapult themselves from 0-100 in under, say, 1.6sec.
There is also very little 1500kW can accomplish that half as much would fail to fix. A similar deadlock applies to cell chemistry, range, consumption, energy density, battery life and charge times. Which leaves the character of the car in question and the scope of driving pleasure it provides as the major deal-making or deal-breaking qualities.
To broaden its appeal and sharpen its profile, Porsche could for instance develop a Range Plus version to close the evident gap in range – 414km for the Taycan Turbo S, a more calming 616km for the top-notch Model S. This difference is bound to hurt in markets like Germany where speed still matters.
Dedicated batteries, a low-drag body kit, narrower tyres, stronger motors and matching performance electronics could also work wonders in an environment where maximum range is more important than momentary peak power.
If speed is a drug, then the Taycan Turbo S gets you hooked in one easy lesson. But many industry observers believe that there are more facets to the ultimate driving experience than sheer velocity.
Qualities such as involvement and interaction, which put a stronger emphasis on car control at the highest level and on best-in-class handling. There is one sure-fire way to accomplish these goals, and that’s by signing off a lightweight rear-wheel-drive Taycan GTS that could perhaps even retain the decontented front axle of the Turbo.
A two-wheel-drive derivative would be less portly, a large portion of the weight would sit on the driving wheels, and by allocating one motor to each driveshaft, a combined output of 350kW-plus would be within easy reach. Such a less-is-more product would bring out the sports car genes, function as credible differentiator to the competition, and help redefine core brand values.
It’s hard not to keep comparing this Porsche to the hottest Tesla Model S, which is on paper every bit as quick and just as fast overall, even though it can’t outhandle the Taycan. But is eclipsing a 10-year-old rival by not a huge margin really the milestone effort everyone expects from a brand new, potentially pace-setting Porsche?
There are several answers to this question. One could argue that long-standing parameters like power output, torque, acceleration times and top speed are not necessarily the defining must-haves of a modern EV. After all, the laws of physics prevent motor cars to catapult themselves from 0-100 in under, say, 1.6sec.
There is also very little 1500kW can accomplish that half as much would fail to fix. A similar deadlock applies to cell chemistry, range, consumption, energy density, battery life and charge times. Which leaves the character of the car in question and the scope of driving pleasure it provides as the major deal-making or deal-breaking qualities.
To broaden its appeal and sharpen its profile, Porsche could for instance develop a Range Plus version to close the evident gap in range – 414km for the Taycan Turbo S, a more calming 616km for the top-notch Model S. This difference is bound to hurt in markets like Germany where speed still matters.
Dedicated batteries, a low-drag body kit, narrower tyres, stronger motors and matching performance electronics could also work wonders in an environment where maximum range is more important than momentary peak power.
If speed is a drug, then the Taycan Turbo S gets you hooked in one easy lesson. But many industry observers believe that there are more facets to the ultimate driving experience than sheer velocity.
Qualities such as involvement and interaction, which put a stronger emphasis on car control at the highest level and on best-in-class handling. There is one sure-fire way to accomplish these goals, and that’s by signing off a lightweight rear-wheel-drive Taycan GTS that could perhaps even retain the decontented front axle of the Turbo.
A two-wheel-drive derivative would be less portly, a large portion of the weight would sit on the driving wheels, and by allocating one motor to each driveshaft, a combined output of 350kW-plus would be within easy reach. Such a less-is-more product would bring out the sports car genes, function as credible differentiator to the competition, and help redefine core brand values.
The following 2 users liked this post by Needsdecaf:
daveo4porsche (09-26-2019),
MM3.9GT3 (09-26-2019)
The following users liked this post:
destaccado (09-28-2019)
#78
#79
This is a very interesting review from Car Throttle and worth the read, addition to the list IMO.
After listing some goodies (and their cost) from the notorious Porsche options list. The Author says:
Nonetheless, the author makes you think at the end regarding a potential Electric Future:
https://www.carthrottle.com/post/the...heres-a-catch/
As you start to push the envelope, though, you remember that you’re driving something that weighs more than a Cayenne Turbo. The Taycan is willing, but it requires a firm hand to be guided through tighter corners at a decent pace.
The car is intended to be rear-led, and although it is possible to make the back wheels break away, you’ll find that even in PSM sport mode, ****-out moments are quickly curtailed. Just as you think about applying corrective lock, the bias between the axles is fiddled with and your short-lived slide is sorted out. If you prefer, it’s possible to switch the traction and stability control off entirely.
The car is intended to be rear-led, and although it is possible to make the back wheels break away, you’ll find that even in PSM sport mode, ****-out moments are quickly curtailed. Just as you think about applying corrective lock, the bias between the axles is fiddled with and your short-lived slide is sorted out. If you prefer, it’s possible to switch the traction and stability control off entirely.
The steering may not be buzzing with feedback, but that’s easy to forgive when the weight and speed are damn near perfect. It’s easy to predict, as with all of the electric power-assisted systems Porsche has at play now.
Away from Adamantium-laced, multi-million quid hypercars, this is by far the best-driving EV there is. But that hasn’t come at the expense of comfort and refinement - the ride is silky smooth whether you’re on 20 or 21-inch wheels, and removing the sound of an engine hasn’t exposed all sorts of horrible noises and vibrations. It’s deathly quiet on the move.
Away from Adamantium-laced, multi-million quid hypercars, this is by far the best-driving EV there is. But that hasn’t come at the expense of comfort and refinement - the ride is silky smooth whether you’re on 20 or 21-inch wheels, and removing the sound of an engine hasn’t exposed all sorts of horrible noises and vibrations. It’s deathly quiet on the move.
This is all quite hard to swallow when a Tesla Model S is £91,800 for the all-singing, all-dancing P100D and its longer range. Is the Taycan worth the difference? I wouldn’t want to say conclusively without getting the two cars together in the same place, but right now it’s looking likely to be a yes. The Taycan looks better, will repeatedly be able to match or better it’s quoted performance figures, is better built, and comes with proper dealer back-up from an established car company.
The Tesla comparisons do raise an issue, though - for all its successes, it’s not as distinct from the Model S as, say, a Porsche Panamera is from a BMW 7-series. Taking away something as complex as an engine does make a car’s character harder to define.
This is something we as car people need to live with. Vehicles of the future will feel more similar to one another than they do now - there’s no way to combat this. Judging by the Taycan, though, there will still be plenty of cars kicking around that are great to drive and come complete with high want-factor.
This is something we as car people need to live with. Vehicles of the future will feel more similar to one another than they do now - there’s no way to combat this. Judging by the Taycan, though, there will still be plenty of cars kicking around that are great to drive and come complete with high want-factor.
#81
But
Earl Colby Pottinger (Tesla, Taycan, Bollinger, Rivian and other BEVs fan.)
#82
This is a very interesting review from Car Throttle and worth the read, addition to the list IMO.
After listing some goodies (and their cost) from the notorious Porsche options list. The Author says:
Nonetheless, the author makes you think at the end regarding a potential Electric Future:
https://www.carthrottle.com/post/the...heres-a-catch/
After listing some goodies (and their cost) from the notorious Porsche options list. The Author says:
Nonetheless, the author makes you think at the end regarding a potential Electric Future:
https://www.carthrottle.com/post/the...heres-a-catch/
#83
Hmmm Interesting conversation on the Taycan and Tesla Model S by Inside EV's Tom Moloughney and the host on E For Electric Youtube Channel, Alex Guberman.
Not sure if the host-Alex was just looking for headlines, or the stereotypical EV guy/Self Confessed Tesla Fanboy who knows nothing about Porsche or ICE/Sports cars. But funny (he seemed quite surprised about several things Tom mentioned about the Taycan and Porsche in general). Tom also gives some key insights for future, potential buyers:
Interesting: Tom's both a Model 3 owner, and has driven many Porsche's in his lifetime. Obviously, he an EV advocate, which is why he feels the way he does. He even mentioned, gave insight on the Ring Shenanigans. LOL
Not sure if the host-Alex was just looking for headlines, or the stereotypical EV guy/Self Confessed Tesla Fanboy who knows nothing about Porsche or ICE/Sports cars. But funny (he seemed quite surprised about several things Tom mentioned about the Taycan and Porsche in general). Tom also gives some key insights for future, potential buyers:
Interesting: Tom's both a Model 3 owner, and has driven many Porsche's in his lifetime. Obviously, he an EV advocate, which is why he feels the way he does. He even mentioned, gave insight on the Ring Shenanigans. LOL
The following users liked this post:
freqflyer (09-30-2019)
#84
Fan Boy!
I really think you need to learn more before you post.
Earl Colby Pottinger (Tesla, Taycan, Bollinger, Rivian and other BEVs fan)
#85
If you think Alex is a Tesla Fan Boy you must be taking some very strong drugs! This guy sold his Tesla because he did not like it and his channel sponsored by BYTON, yet you think he could be a Tesla fanboy.
I really think you need to learn more before you post.
Earl Colby Pottinger (Tesla, Taycan, Bollinger, Rivian and other BEVs fan)
I really think you need to learn more before you post.
Earl Colby Pottinger (Tesla, Taycan, Bollinger, Rivian and other BEVs fan)
Alex asked some dumb questions; argued with or misquoted Tom; was incredulous with Porsche listing 'inferior stats (or whatever the term)' and their history/MO. He even admitted he was a Tesla fanboy. I didn't say, do those things. He did.
Regardless, what he may have or not said/did with Tesla in the past. He did come off a bit partisan and/or aloof to what Tom was saying and Porsches. Maybe it was the competitive aspect which brought it out?...I dunno. LOL. And that's fine: which is why I said he could be doing it for publicity (aka, giving him The Benefit Of The Doubt). No biggie. It was a quip.
Relax.
#86
Instructor
If you think Alex is a Tesla Fan Boy you must be taking some very strong drugs! This guy sold his Tesla because he did not like it and his channel sponsored by BYTON, yet you think he could be a Tesla fanboy.
I really think you need to learn more before you post.
Earl Colby Pottinger (Tesla, Taycan, Bollinger, Rivian and other BEVs fan)
I really think you need to learn more before you post.
Earl Colby Pottinger (Tesla, Taycan, Bollinger, Rivian and other BEVs fan)
The following users liked this post:
CarMaven (09-30-2019)
#87
Instructor
Hmmm Interesting conversation on the Taycan and Tesla Model S by Inside EV's Tom Moloughney and the host on E For Electric Youtube Channel, Alex Guberman.
Not sure if the host-Alex was just looking for headlines, or the stereotypical EV guy/Self Confessed Tesla Fanboy who knows nothing about Porsche or ICE/Sports cars. But funny (he seemed quite surprised about several things Tom mentioned about the Taycan and Porsche in general). Tom also gives some key insights for future, potential buyers:
Interesting: Tom's both a Model 3 owner, and has driven many Porsche's in his lifetime. Obviously, he an EV advocate, which is why he feels the way he does. He even mentioned, gave insight on the Ring Shenanigans. LOL
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8BAcgUcXY-Y
Not sure if the host-Alex was just looking for headlines, or the stereotypical EV guy/Self Confessed Tesla Fanboy who knows nothing about Porsche or ICE/Sports cars. But funny (he seemed quite surprised about several things Tom mentioned about the Taycan and Porsche in general). Tom also gives some key insights for future, potential buyers:
Interesting: Tom's both a Model 3 owner, and has driven many Porsche's in his lifetime. Obviously, he an EV advocate, which is why he feels the way he does. He even mentioned, gave insight on the Ring Shenanigans. LOL
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8BAcgUcXY-Y
The following users liked this post:
CarMaven (09-30-2019)
#88
As was pointed out earlier - a person that breaks the embargo - is a direct reflection of the culture that person embraces.
Porsche the culture of excellence Vs. the culture of spiv and spin.
An easy choice for most. People like Alex reflect failure, not excellence worse still - the lack of ability, insight and ethics is damming.
Needsdecaf - where do you stand in regard to the above You promoted him and his view and his site. A mistake, a misunderstanding or simply an easy path that was consistent with your view.
A poor look / or possibly a mistake/ it wasn’t meant in that way / but will still ill take the hits - ethics
Porsche the culture of excellence Vs. the culture of spiv and spin.
An easy choice for most. People like Alex reflect failure, not excellence worse still - the lack of ability, insight and ethics is damming.
Needsdecaf - where do you stand in regard to the above You promoted him and his view and his site. A mistake, a misunderstanding or simply an easy path that was consistent with your view.
A poor look / or possibly a mistake/ it wasn’t meant in that way / but will still ill take the hits - ethics
Last edited by groundhog; 09-30-2019 at 10:44 AM.
#89
Instructor
As was pointed out earlier - a person that breaks the embargo - is a direct reflection of the culture that person embraces.
Porsche the culture of excellence Vs. the culture of spiv and spin.
An easy choice for most. People like Alex reflect failure, not excellence worse still - the lack of ability, insight and ethics is damming.
Needsdecaf - where do you stand in regard to the above You promoted him and his view and his site. A mistake, a misunderstanding or simply an easy path that was consistent with your view.
A poor look / or possibly a mistake/ it wasn’t meant in that way / but will still ill take the hits - ethics
Porsche the culture of excellence Vs. the culture of spiv and spin.
An easy choice for most. People like Alex reflect failure, not excellence worse still - the lack of ability, insight and ethics is damming.
Needsdecaf - where do you stand in regard to the above You promoted him and his view and his site. A mistake, a misunderstanding or simply an easy path that was consistent with your view.
A poor look / or possibly a mistake/ it wasn’t meant in that way / but will still ill take the hits - ethics
#90
Originally Posted by freqflyer;16137387[b
]Unless one is an EV geek, one would not know Alex takes digs at Tesla to get clicks, yet Tesla keeps inviting him to their events. Alex comes across like many "internet" Tesla fans, not really car people and basing which product is better purely on specs. What do you expect when the majority of Tesla's "internet" fans are more excited about a car that can drive itself than driving it.
Alex, may rant on Tesla in the past for whatever reason as you and Earl mentioned. Agreed!
However, that didn't stop him from being a Tesla fanboy in this video, and being invited to other, past Tesla Events as you noted.
You're correct. Among other things: Alex seemed incredulous that Porsche wouldn't list their more optimistic stats (almost like he was having a meltdown that could be the case). He argued with Tom about 2nd gear being better. He argued with Tom about the Taycan interior being better. And he kept telling Tom: The Taycan was 'the Best Porsche of all time, based off Tom's comment that its the best CURRENT Porsche'. LOL. Note: Tom had to correct him him on the term "current", etc.. There was even more as you know (Alex confessing his feelings/allegiance on the Tesla, etc.), which is his prerogative.
So yes: Alex came off as the stereotypical Tesla/EV lover, who seemingly knew nothing about cars before Tesla. You can't make this up. He did it himself, yes.
Nonetheless, the interview was both very informative and entertaining. So either way, it was good for Alex and the viewers.