As part of the electric Porsche‘s midlife refresh, there’s a new Taycan that sits atop the performance tree, appropriately named the Taycan Turbo GT. It’s the new top dog of the range, and with it comes new numbers to beat: 1,092 peak hp, 988 lb-ft of torque and 0-60 mph in as little as 2.1 seconds.
Not yet on the market, but already a record holder: The Taycan Turbo GT has scorched the Nürburgring Nordschleife in a blistering 7:07.55, rewriting the record books for four-door electric vehicles (EVs) and placing it within striking distance of hypercar territory. Just last month, it also set a new record at Laguna Seca in California, with development driver Lars Kern behind the wheel posting a lap time of 1:27.87 which is a track record for a production EV at that track.
Porsche has set up an “attack mode” on the Turbo GT so it can be engaged or deactivated by a paddle on the steering wheel for ease of use while on track. “You can also trigger the boost with racing gloves, and without taking a hand off the wheel,” explains Kern. “With this simple, safe and fast means of operation, the Taycan Turbo GT models are tailored to the needs of a racing driver.”
The Turbo GT features some big upgrades in the powertrain department. New 900-amp pulse inverters – key devices in electric motors that regulate the flow of current into the motor windings – with silicon carbide semiconductors significantly reduce “switching losses” and allow higher “switching frequencies.” The transmission ratio and the robustness of the gearbox have also been improved, allowing for higher torque figures.
To set itself apart from the other variants, the Turbo GT features a front spoiler with aero blades. 21-inch lightweight forged wheels and SportDesign side skirts with carbon fiber inlays give it a track-focused stance. The wing mirrors and B-pillars are also finished in carbon fiber. There’s a new adaptive spoiler for additional downforce around corners, with a Gurney flap that enables a total downforce of 485 pounds.
Inside, it gets 18-way adjustable sports seats and various exclusive elements like unique Turbo GT embroidering and contrasting Volt Blue or GT Silver interior colours. Additionally, it has a charge port door on the passenger side, which is operated manually instead of electrically. Special sound and heat-insulating glass and the “Sound Package Plus” also save weight. The latter does without rear speakers and replaces the BOSE Surround Sound system.
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Images by Porsche.