The Porsche Taycan Turbo GT, equipped with the Weissach package and Pirelli Trofeo RS tires, has achieved yet another milestone by setting a new lap record for electric vehicles at the Interlagos circuit in São Paulo. On February 5, 2025, professional driver Felipe Nasr, known for his three-time IMSA championship wins and victories at the 24 Hours of Daytona, clocked an impressive time of 1:42.1 minutes on the challenging 2.67-mile track. This performance not only surpassed the previous record set by the Taycan Turbo S but also outperformed the 911 Turbo S's time. The achievement highlights the exceptional capabilities of the Taycan Turbo GT and underscores Porsche's commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle performance.
Interlagos, officially named Autodrome José Carlos Pace, is renowned for its technical sections and elevation changes, making it a formidable challenge for any driver. The circuit has witnessed many historic moments, including the triumphs of Formula 1 legend Ayrton Senna. For Porsche, this record-breaking event was strategically timed to coincide with the debut of the Taycan Turbo GT in Brazil. CEO of Porsche Brazil, Peter Vogel, emphasized that the car's outstanding performance was aimed at showcasing the strengths of the new Taycan model series.
Felipe Nasr, who recently won the 24 Hours of Daytona, expressed his admiration for the Taycan Turbo GT's performance. "The car's acceleration and overall balance were truly remarkable," he remarked. "The precision in slow corners and stability under heavy braking made it a joy to drive." Nasr will continue to compete in the upcoming 12 Hours of Sebring IMSA race in March, further demonstrating the versatility and endurance of Porsche's electric models.
Porsche has been consistently proving the motorsport credentials of the Taycan Turbo GT. Since May 2024, it has served as the safety car in Formula E races, driven by Bruno Correia. Equipped with advanced safety features and high-tech communication systems, the Taycan Turbo GT ensures safety and efficiency during races. Additionally, the Taycan model line has set records on various tracks worldwide, including WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca and the Nürburgring Nordschleife. In January 2025, Porsche Experience instructor Jens Richter even set a record for the longest continuous drift on ice using a Taycan GTS, covering over 10 miles.
The Taycan Turbo GT, featuring a powerful silicon carbide pulse inverter and Attack Mode for short bursts of increased power, represents the pinnacle of Porsche's electric sedan lineup. Weighing up to 157 lbs less than the Taycan Turbo S, thanks to lightweight construction and carbon-fiber components, the Taycan Turbo GT with Weissach package is optimized for track performance. Standard Porsche Active Ride suspension ensures exceptional handling and road connection, making it a formidable contender in both racing and everyday driving scenarios.
This latest achievement at Interlagos exemplifies Porsche's dedication to innovation and excellence in electric vehicle technology. The Taycan Turbo GT's record-breaking performance not only highlights its superior capabilities but also sets a new standard for electric cars in the motorsport arena. As Porsche continues to expand its presence globally, the Taycan Turbo GT stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to delivering cutting-edge performance and sustainability.
Empowering a Greener Future Through Smart Battery Repurposing
The Declining Value of Electric Vehicles
The market dynamics surrounding electric vehicles (EVs) have seen significant shifts over recent years. Resale values for these eco-friendly machines have plummeted by nearly half within just two years, according to the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association. This decline poses challenges for the leasing sector, where residual value plays a pivotal role in determining the financial health of lease agreements.Residual value serves as a critical benchmark for pricing vehicles at the end of their lease terms. When EVs retain higher residual values, it bolsters the stability and profitability of the leasing market. However, with current trends showing a steep drop in these values, stakeholders are seeking solutions to mitigate the financial impact.Innovative Solutions from Connected Energy
Enter Connected Energy, a company founded in 2013 and headquartered in Newcastle upon Tyne. This organization has developed a groundbreaking method to address the issue of declining EV residual values while promoting sustainability. The core of their strategy involves repurposing used EV batteries as stationary energy storage units.Even after reaching the end of their life cycles, EV batteries maintain approximately 80% of their initial capacity. Rather than discarding these valuable assets, Connected Energy aims to harness their remaining potential. By transitioning these batteries into energy storage platforms, they can be utilized for various applications, including supporting EV charging stations and capturing excess solar power.Economic and Environmental Benefits
The economic advantages of this approach are substantial. According to Chief Operating Officer Alex Charr, each repurposed EV battery has the potential to generate thousands of euros in revenue. This additional income stream benefits battery manufacturers, who can reduce the need for producing new batteries and tackle the costly and energy-intensive process of recycling.Moreover, this innovation contributes significantly to environmental conservation. Transportation remains one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 26% of total emissions in the U.K. in 2021. By extending the lifespan of EV batteries and reducing the demand for new ones, Connected Energy's solution helps lower carbon footprints and supports decarbonization efforts.Scaling Up for Widespread Impact
Connected Energy operates internationally, collaborating with industry giants like Volvo and Caterpillar. Their technical center in Hethel, Norfolk, serves as a hub for developing and implementing circular economy solutions. Data from the company indicates that the principles behind repurposing EV batteries are scalable, opening up vast opportunities for large-scale energy storage projects.These initiatives not only provide financial returns but also foster the maturation of the battery recycling industry. As costs decrease and efficiencies improve, the overall sustainability of the global EV industry stands to gain. Leasing companies and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) can introduce new revenue streams, directly enhancing the intrinsic value of used EVs and addressing the issue of falling residual values.Driving Change Toward a Circular Economy
Ultimately, Connected Energy's approach represents a significant step toward disrupting the throwaway economy. By giving used EV batteries a second life, this strategy promotes a more sustainable and economically viable future. It paves the way for a circular economy where resources are maximized, waste is minimized, and environmental impact is reduced.Through innovative thinking and strategic partnerships, Connected Energy is leading the charge in transforming how we perceive and utilize EV batteries. This shift not only benefits the automotive and energy storage industries but also contributes to a greener, more sustainable planet.In recent years, electric vehicles (EVs) have garnered significant attention due to their environmental benefits. However, their higher upfront costs compared to traditional gasoline-powered cars remain a deterrent for many consumers. To address this issue, both federal and state governments have introduced various tax incentives and rebates. Among these efforts, Colorado stands out as a leader in EV adoption, offering residents some of the most attractive deals in the nation. This article explores how Colorado has managed to achieve such remarkable success in promoting electric vehicles.
A Golden Opportunity in the Rocky Mountains
Despite not being an obvious frontrunner in the EV market, Colorado has emerged as a powerhouse in electric vehicle adoption. The state's ambitious goal is to have 940,000 EVs registered by 2030, and it has implemented innovative strategies to encourage buyers. Last year, Colorado led the nation in EV market share during the fourth quarter and ranked second only to California in overall EV registrations for 2024.
The Colorado Energy Office highlights that EVs accounted for 31.5% of new car sales in the last quarter, a testament to the state's commitment to sustainable transportation. Ari Rosenblum from the Colorado Energy Office noted that the combination of multiple purchase incentives and investment in reliable EV charging infrastructure has driven this surge in EV purchases. Consumers are attracted to the cost savings on fuel and maintenance, along with the reduced emissions.
Colorado offers several incentive programs beyond the $7,500 federal tax credit. The Innovative Motor Vehicle Credit provides up to $3,500 for plug-in hybrids and full EVs priced under $80,000, with an additional $2,500 for vehicles costing less than $35,000. The Innovative Truck Credit supports heavier vehicles with credits ranging from $3,000 to $12,000. Additionally, the Vehicle Exchange Colorado program incentivizes trading older, inefficient gas-powered vehicles for new or used EVs, providing rebates of up to $6,000.
These incentives have resulted in remarkably low prices for EVs in Colorado. For instance, Tynan’s Nissan Aurora offered new Nissan Leafs for just $29 a month after taxes and fees, while Aryia and Leaf registrations surged by 542% year-over-year through the first three quarters of 2024. Even luxury models like the Dodge Charger Daytona R/T saw lease deals as low as $249 per month with $3,999 down.
A Bright Future Despite Uncertainty
While there are concerns about potential changes to federal tax credit structures, Colorado remains well-prepared to continue supporting EV adoption. The state's robust incentive programs and forward-thinking policies ensure that consumers can still enjoy substantial savings. Regardless of future federal policies, Colorado's commitment to cleaner transportation will likely keep it at the forefront of the EV revolution. As more consumers recognize the long-term benefits of electric vehicles, the demand for EVs in Colorado—and nationwide—is expected to grow steadily.