The Porsche Taycan Turbo GT has made headlines yet again by setting a new benchmark for electric vehicles. This time, the high-performance sedan achieved the fastest lap record for an EV at the renowned Interlagos circuit in Brazil. The achievement underscores the vehicle's exceptional capabilities and places it among the elite in both electric and traditional combustion engine categories.
Former Formula 1 driver Felipe Nasr, who now competes with Porsche Penske Motorsport, demonstrated the Taycan Turbo GT’s prowess by completing a lap in just 1 minute and 42.1 seconds. This remarkable time not only surpasses the previous EV record by nearly eight seconds but also outperforms the lap times of several of Porsche’s most powerful models, including the 911 Turbo S. The accomplishment highlights the potential of electric powertrains to rival and even exceed the performance of their gasoline counterparts.
The success of the Taycan Turbo GT at Interlagos follows similar achievements at other prestigious tracks like Laguna Seca and the Nürburgring Nordschleife. These performances place the vehicle on par with GT4 race cars, a significant milestone for an electric four-door sedan. While future iterations of Porsche’s electric lineup may push the boundaries even further, the current achievements of the Taycan Turbo GT serve as a testament to the rapid advancement of electric vehicle technology. This progress not only challenges conventional automotive norms but also paves the way for a future where electric vehicles dominate racing circuits and everyday driving alike.
Green NCAP has introduced innovative testing methodologies to assess electric vehicles' (EVs) performance in cold conditions. The organization aims to provide consumers with a clearer understanding of how EV energy consumption and driving range are affected by low temperatures. Traditionally, the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) measures energy consumption without considering climatisation, leading to significant discrepancies between official figures and real-world performance. This gap can cause considerable uncertainty for potential EV buyers, particularly those concerned about "range anxiety."
One of the most critical factors impacting EV efficiency is the need for heating in cold weather. Unlike conventional vehicles that can utilize engine waste heat, EVs rely on battery power to warm up the cabin. Dr. Aleksandar Damyanov from Green NCAP explains that this process can significantly increase energy consumption, sometimes doubling the vehicle's energy usage. To address this issue, Green NCAP developed the "cold ambient temperature test," simulating a scenario where an EV is parked outside overnight in sub-zero temperatures. Results from this test have shown a stark difference compared to WLTP figures, with energy consumption increasing by as much as 86 percent.
To provide a more comprehensive picture, Green NCAP plans to introduce a new "warm start" cold ambient test in 2025. This test will simulate a situation where the vehicle starts from a warmer state, such as being stored in a garage. Early findings suggest that this scenario consumes approximately 25 percent less energy than the cold start test. These advancements aim to offer consumers a more accurate estimation of EV performance in winter conditions, ultimately fostering greater confidence in electric mobility.
The automotive industry is actively developing innovative solutions to improve EV heating efficiency. Manufacturers are exploring technologies like heat pumps and battery thermal management systems, as well as targeted heating methods that focus on the driver or passengers rather than the entire cabin. As these improvements continue, consumer concerns about range should diminish, paving the way for a smoother transition to electric vehicles. By promoting transparency and innovation, Green NCAP plays a crucial role in accelerating the adoption of sustainable transportation solutions, ensuring that EVs not only meet but exceed consumer expectations.