Those who have been awaiting a fully electrified full size SUV from Porsche can rejoice, as they have now released the E4 Cayenne Electric combining sporting DNA with pioneering technology. Now the most powerful production Porsche of all time yet with incredible versatility, it marks a new dimension for the Cayenne legacy that first brought the Porsche legend into a completely new market segment in September 2002. A true global success since its inception, its new Electric evolution now complements the existing pure combustion and hybrid Cayenne models, giving the marque’s customers a completely flexible choice of powertrains.
Comprising 2 models in the form of the Cayenne Electric and the Cayenne Turbo Electric, both are fully all-wheel drive & equipped with electronic Porsche Traction Management (ePTM). With that, the Cayenne Turbo punches its way from rest to 100 km/h in a hypercar pacing 2.5 seconds, before reaching 200 km/h just 4.9 seconds later on the way to its 260 km/h maximum speed. Its newly developed electric drive system delivers this powerful performance with maximum outputs of up to 1,156 hp & 1,500 Nm of torque with Launch Control, while the rear axle’s motor features motorsport-derived direct oil cooling to efficiently maintain its high continuous output. Up to 857 hp is at the driver’s disposal during normal driving mode, while Push-to-Pass unleashes an extra 176 hp for 10 seconds.
The entry-level Cayenne will prove to be no slouch either, normally operating with 408 hp before powering up with 442 hp and 835 Nm of torque with Launch Control. The key maximum attack numbers here are 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds & a 230 km/h top speed. Both electrified Cayennes are powered by a new 113 kWh high-voltage battery boasting double-sided cooling for optimal thermal management; with a combined WLTP range of up to 623 km for the Turbo and up to 642 km for the Cayenne Electric. Their 800-volt technology enables them to DC charge up to 390 kW capacity, or even 400 kW under certain conditions while their State of Charge (SoC) can be boosted from 10% to 80% in under 16 minutes.
Robust charging performance was a primary development goal, and another key industry first is the optional ability to support wireless inductive charging up to 11 kW. A Cayenne Electric driver just needs to park above the Porsche Wireless Charging floor plate to automatically initiate the process. Formula E levels of energy recovery are another hallmark here, with both Cayenne Electrics delivering up to 600 kW of recuperative power. Their electric motors can handle 97% of all everyday braking operations, with the mechanical friction brakes rarely needed to be called upon. For those after more spirited driving, the renowned Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) remain available as an option.
At first glance, the Cayenne Electric clearly combines signature Porsche proportions with a new design language related to the Macan Electric. A low bonnet & slim Matrix LED headlights define its front end while emphasizing the vehicle’s width. Other Porsche design trademarks include strongly contoured wings, along with the iconic gently sloping roof flyline. Adding to its sporting visual appeal, frameless doors and striking door surface creases characterize its lateral profile. Its distinctly three-dimensional side skirts come contrastingly painted to create a duotone effect which further underscore the car’s dynamic proportions.
Round the back is where the Cayenne Electric charts its own aesthetic character with a highly contemporary, almost aggressive look strikingly accentuated by details including the distinctive 3D light strip, illuminated Porsche lettering and lower body elements. Indeed, looking around the SUV’s lower edges reveals its airflow party trick in the form of the Porsche Active Aerodynamics (PAA) system. This precisely adapts its aerodynamic properties for maximum efficiency, while producing extra downforce during dynamic driving.
These movable elements which also give the Cayenne Electric a more purposeful edge include front adaptive cooling air flaps, an adaptive roof spoiler & most significantly its the innovative, active rear aeroblades. When deployed, these surfaces extend the lateral tear-off edges and enhance airflow characteristics to cut drag, boosting total range especially at higher speeds. Along with front bodywork air curtains, an underbody that’s almost fully enclosed, specially honed wheels & its rear diffuser, these sculpted measures result in the new Cayenne Electric boasting a class leading 0.25 drag coefficient, helping its energy go further. There’s even an Off-Road Package for customers who wish to take their Cayenne Electrics off the beaten path, with a modified front section enabling it to safely tackle rough dirt roads, steep ascents or descents and difficult terrain.
Much of this versatility is also due to the E4 Cayenne’s new chassis, with both models featuring standard adaptive air Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) & rear-axle steering. The Turbo additionally boasts the Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) limited-slip rear differential, and Porsche Active Ride for the first time. Adapted from the Panamera sports sedans, the active suspension system compensates for nearly all body movements for exceptional driving dynamics & comfortable stability.
On the inside, the Cayenne Electric’s cabin is truly dominated by a new, elegantly curved Flow Display OLED panel that seamlessly integrates into its centre console while clearly delineating display and control areas. There’s also a fully digital 14.25-inch OLED and optional 14.9-inch passenger display, altogether making up the largest digital screen real estate of any Porsche. All displays are embedded seamlessly into the cabin’s architecture, while there’s even a new heads-up display with AR technology.
For those more accustomed to physical buttons, these remain in use for key functions including the air conditioning control & audio volume. A new sliding Panoramic Roof with an electrically switchable Variable Light Control liquid crystal foil further imbues the interior with an airy sense of spaciousness. New panel heating is another highlight for colder climates, warming not just the seats but also large contact surface areas including the armrests and door panels.
Individual customization is also more generous than before with the Cayenne Electric, with 13 standard colours, 9 wheel designs sized from 20 to 22 inches, and 12 interior combinations on offer. For those seeking something more special, the Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, Paint to Sample extended exterior colour range & Sonderwunsch programme are at customers’ full disposal for highly personalized individualisation. More details soon once this latest electric Porsche makes landfall on Malaysian shores.
