Just as the "entry-level" 2020 Porsche Taycan 4S reaches dealerships in the U.S.
word of a less-expensive model surfaces.
Porsche R&D chief Dr. Michael Steiner told Car Magazine in a Monday interview
"there will be entry-level models coming off the Taycan."
Steiner went on to say the less-expensive Taycan will be
rear-wheel drive and feature a smaller battery pack. He noted that not all
markets, such as China, need all-wheel drive due to more mild weather
conditions.
Pricing wasn't disclosed, but the current entry-level model
in the U.S.––the 4S with the standard battery pack––costs $105,150,
and options inflate that price quickly.
The Taycan 4S with the performance battery––with a capacity
of 93.4 kwh––has an EPA-estimated range of 203 miles. The Taycan 4S
with the smaller, 79.2-kwh battery pack, doesn't have an EPA-estimated range
yet. With rear-wheel drive and a smaller battery pack, it's unclear if the
upcoming entry-level Taycan will have more or less range. There will be less
energy in the battery pack but it will also draw less due to the lack of
all-wheel drive.
In our experiences with the Taycan we've found the EPA's
range estimates are fair and accurate. What isn't noted by the EPA is that the
Taycan's range seems to be consistent regardless of weather or how fast one is
going. In other electric vehicles we've seen range vary by up to 30% depending
on the weather or driving conditions, which is a distinct difference from the
Taycan.
The current U.S. Taycan lineup consists of the Turbo S, Turbo,
and 4S. A Cross Turismo hatchback version has already been confirmed and spied undergoing testing on public roads. A Targa model is reportedly in the works, but Porsche has yet
to confirm the glass-roofed model.
We reached out to Porsche USA to confirm the new base model
will come to the U.S, and spokesman Calvin Kim said "we generally do not
speak about future products, but you can be sure our electrification initiative
will not stop with just three Taycan variants." We expect to get
confirmation for the U.S. market in the coming months.
by Joel Feder
http://www.boscheuropean.com
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