Second-Gen Porsche Macan Debuts With All-Electric Powertrain
The Porsche Macan has been a global success since launching a decade ago, with more than 800,000 units sold around the world. Now, after five years of development (and some delays), the first fully electric variant is finally ready to hit the road.
To be clear, this is the second generation of the German automaker’s compact SUV, available exclusively in battery-powered configuration. As previously reported, the conventional Macan will continue to exist for a while.
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“We are taking the Macan to a completely new level with exceptional E-Performance, the new Driver Experience and a very impressive design,” said Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG, on the occasion of the world premiere in Singapore.
The Sportiest SUV in the Segment
That’s what Porsche is aiming for with the all-electric Macan. Thanks to the latest generation of permanently excited PSM electric motors on the front and rear axles, the base Macan 4 produces up to 402 hp of overboost power, while the Macan Turbo generates up to 630 hp. Peak torque is rated at 479 and a whopping 833 lb-ft, respectively.
In combination with Launch Control, the Macan 4 accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, while the Macan Turbo takes just 3.3 seconds. If you take them to the track, they can reach speeds of 220 km/h and 260 km/h, respectively. Only the Tesla Model X Plaid, which is positioned in the segment above, can beat those numbers.
Both the Macan 4 and the Macan Turbo have all-wheel drive with an electronically controlled differential lock on the rear axle enabling torque vectoring, as well as an air suspension with electronic damping control as standard. For the first time, the Macan is available with optional rear-axle steering, with a maximum steering angle of five degrees. It allows a compact turning circle of 11.1 metres in urban traffic and enhanced stability at higher speeds.
New Platform With 800V Architecture
The electric motors draw their energy from a lithium-ion battery with a gross capacity of 100 kWh, of which up to 95 kWh can be actively used. They’re part of the newly developed Premium Platform Electric (PPE) with 800V architecture, different from the Taycan sedan. Porsche says that efficiency and range figures for Canada will be available closer to launch.
The new Macan has maximum DC charging capability of 270 kW, which means it can be charged from 10-80 percent in approximately 21 minutes under ideal conditions. At 400-volt charging stations, a high-voltage switch in the battery enables bank charging by effectively splitting the 800-volt battery into two batteries, each with a nominal voltage of 400 volts. This enables particularly efficient charging without an additional HV booster, at up to 135 kW. AC charging at up to 11 kW is possible depending on the external charging hardware used.
Another thing you need to know about is the Integrated Power Box, which further contributes to the efficiency of the new Macan while also saving weight and space. The innovative and compact IPB combines three components including the on-board AC charger, the high-voltage heater and the DC/DC converter.
Familiar Silhouette With New Design Cues
The electric Porsche Macan is clearly recognizable with about the same silhouette as its gas-burning counterpart. At 4,784 mm long, 1,938 mm wide and 1,622 mm high, it’s roughly the same size, too, except with a wheelbase (2,893 mm) that is 86 mm longer.
The headlights are divided into two parts: the flat upper light unit with four-point daytime running lights is embedded in the wings and emphasizes the width of the car. The main headlight module with optional matrix LED technology is positioned slightly lower in the front end.
On the sides are frameless doors with characteristic side blades, plus sleek new wheels up to 22 inches in diameter. Strong shoulders give the rear a muscular look, and the Porsche logo now sits in the centre of the 3D light strip. By the way, thanks to the Porsche Active Aerodynamics (PAA), which includes an adaptive rear spoiler, active cooling flaps on the front air intakes and flexible covers on the fully sealed underbody, the drag coefficient is a mere 0.25.
Practical and Connected
Inside, electrification has led to increased cargo space. Depending on the model and equipment fitted, the capacity behind the rear seat bench is up to 540 litres. There’s also a small 84-litre frunk under the hood. This amounts to 127 litres more than the previous Macan. However, when the rear seats are folded down completely, you only get 1,348 litres. Maximum towing capacity is 2,000 kg (4,400 lbs).
The cabin is unmistakably Porsche: the width of the cockpit is emphasised by an integrated black panel. Of course, the main highlight is arguably the latest-generation display and operating concept with up to three screens, including the free-standing, 12.6-inch curved instrument cluster and the 10.9-inch central display. For the first time, the passenger can also view information, adjust settings on the infotainment system or stream video content while the vehicle is being driven via their own optional 10.9-inch screen. Additionally, a head-up display with augmented reality technology is available.
Oh, and just so you know, the new-generation infotainment system is based on Android Automotive OS but still includes a “Hey Porsche” voice assistant that suggests routes, including charging stops, and more.
How Much?
The new Porsche Macan will be built in Leipzig, Germany. In Canada, pricing for the Macan 4 starts at $99,300, while the Macan Turbo begins at $125,300. Both models can be ordered now, with the first deliveries expected to begin during the second half of 2024.