Porsche has unveiled its first all-electric SUV, the Macan Electric, at a world premiere.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Porsche Macan, which is entering its second generation. The star of the second generation is the all-electric model. With a progressive yet timeless design, typical Porsche performance, long ranges, and a high level of everyday practicality, the Macan 4 and Macan Turbo aim to perfectly meet the requirements expected by Porsche customers for an SUV.
Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG, stated, “Porsche has taken the Macan to a completely new level through outstanding E-Performance, a new driver experience, and impressive design.”
York Kerner, Vice President of Macan products, stated, “Our goal is to showcase the Macan Electric as the sportiest model in its class.” To achieve high efficiency and maximize energy recovery, Porsche has placed the latest PSM permanent-magnet electric motors on both the front and rear axles.
The highest level of E-Performance can be clearly confirmed by the numbers. With launch control activated, the Macan 4 delivers an overboost output of 408 hp (300 kW), while the Macan Turbo boasts a powerful 639 hp (470 kW). The maximum torque figures are 66.3 kg·m and 115.2 kg·m, respectively. Such powerful output and torque ensure excellent driving performance. The Macan 4 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds, while the Macan Turbo completes the same speed in a mere 3.3 seconds. The top speeds of the two models are 220 km/h and 260 km/h, respectively.
The electric motor is powered by a lithium-ion battery mounted in the vehicle’s underbody, with a total capacity of 100 kWh, of which up to 95 kWh can be actively used. The high-voltage battery is a key element of the newly developed Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, which Porsche has applied for the first time in the Macan Electric. DC fast-charging output reaches up to 270 kW. With the appropriate rapid charger, the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in about 21 minutes. Additionally, when using a 400V charger, the high-voltage switch in the battery effectively divides the 800V battery into two 400V-rated batteries for charging. This system allows for a maximum charging capacity of 135 kW without the need for a separate HV booster. When using a regular AC charger installed at home, slow charging is possible at a maximum rate of 11 kW.
During driving, it recovers a maximum of 240 kW of energy through the electric motor. The integrated converter (IPB, Integrated Power Box) plays a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency of the Macan Electric by reducing weight and saving space. The innovative IPB, which has been downsized, is a system that combines three components: an integrated AC charger, a high-voltage heater, and a DC/DC converter. The combined WLTP range figures are 613 km for the Macan 4 and 591 km for the Macan Turbo.
Thanks to finely tuned proportions and Porsche’s design DNA, the Macan Electric boasts a more dynamic and commanding presence.
Michael Mauer, Head of Style Porsche, remarked, “With the Macan Electric, we are showcasing the first Porsche model with a distinct product identity in the pure electric vehicle lineup,” adding, “The Macan Electric, characterized by a clear brand identity, is undoubtedly part of the Porsche lineup, further developing the unique Porsche body proportions while optimizing them for the new challenge of electric vehicles.” He also emphasized, “This design highlights the sporty yet modern and dynamic appearance of the Macan Electric, and the sports car instincts of the Macan will undoubtedly remain strong even after the introduction of the electric model.”
The shallow contours of the hood and distinctly protruding wings give the SUV, measuring 4,784 mm in length, 1,938 mm in width, and 1,622 mm in height, a dynamic image even when stationary. The Macan Electric can be fitted with wheels up to 22 inches in size, with different tire sizes front and rear. The wheelbase, extended by 86 mm compared to the previous model (2,893 mm), harmonizes well with the shortened front and rear overhangs. The headlights are divided into two sections, with integrated four-point daytime running lights emphasizing the vehicle’s width above, and the main headlight module with optional matrix LED technology sits slightly lower.
The unique Porsche flyline forms a flat rear window creating a unified unit. This combines with the frameless door, featuring unique side blades, to create an elegant and sporty design. The strongly accentuated shoulder line provides a robust image to the rear of the body. The Porsche logo is centrally located in a 3D light strip.
Porsche optimizes the driving range by combining its unique design DNA with advanced aerodynamics technologies. Thanks to the Porsche Active Aerodynamics, which achieves a drag coefficient of 0.25, the Macan Electric ranks among the most aerodynamically efficient SUVs on the market. The aerodynamics technologies applied to the Macan Electric serve not only to increase the driving range but also to reduce power consumption. The PAA system includes an adaptive rear spoiler, an active cooling flap for the front air intake, and an opening cover beneath the completely sealed underbody.
The air curtains below the headlight module and the lowered front end optimize airflow. Additionally, the horizontally finished edges and diagonally positioned diffuser at the rear of the vehicle ensure strong aerodynamic efficiency.
The Macan Electric is a performance SUV that meets high standards of everyday practicality, high-quality equipment, and a spacious interior layout. Electrification has resulted in an increased trunk capacity for the Macan Electric. Depending on the trim and specifications, the trunk capacity behind the second row of seats can increase to a maximum of 540L. There’s also a secondary storage space under the hood, known as the “frunk,” offering a capacity of 84 liters. Combined, the total storage space has increased by 127 liters compared to the previous model. Additionally, when the rear seats are fully folded down, the trunk capacity expands to 1,348 liters. The maximum towing capacity, reaching 2,000 kg, further enhances the practicality of the Macan Electric.
Depending on the trim and specifications, the driver and passenger seat positions are lowered by up to 28 mm compared to the previous model, while the legroom in the second-row seats can be lowered by up to 15 mm. The wide cockpit, emphasized by a composite black panel, is undeniably Porsche in character. The center console design emphasizes a low position focused on performance, while the extensive window area offers a bright and open feeling.
Equipped with the latest digital user interface, commonly used systems such as the climate control and air conditioning remain analog for convenience. The carefully designed driver’s seat and door strips feature integrated LED lighting. This LED light strip serves as ambient lighting and interacts with the occupants, providing a welcome function depending on the situation, displaying charging progress and various information and warnings related to the driver assistance systems. The various equipment applied to the Macan Electric allows for a high level of customization.
Porsche is also aiming to incorporate more eco-friendly materials. Some interior components of the all-electric Macan Electric use a certain proportion of sustainable materials.
The Macan Electric features a cutting-edge display system and operation setup with a maximum of three screens, including an independent 12.6-inch display, a curved instrument cluster, and a 10.9-inch center display. For the first time, a separate 10.9-inch screen for the passenger is available as an option, allowing them to view various information, operate the infotainment system, or watch streaming video content.
The “Porsche Driver Experience” includes a head-up display that applies augmented reality technology for the first time. Virtual visual elements, such as navigation arrows, are smoothly integrated into the real driving environment, presented to the driver at a distance of 10 meters ahead, corresponding to the size of an 87-inch display.
The new infotainment system is based on the Android operating system. Additionally, Porsche Communication Management for the Macan Electric has elevated control performance. For example, the “Hey Porsche” voice assistant guides users to charging stations included in the route as quickly as possible. The new Porsche App Centre allows passengers to directly access popular apps and download them onto the Macan Electric immediately.
Porsche has focused on the unique Porsche driving dynamics and distinctive steering feel in developing the Macan Electric. York Kerner, Vice President of Macan products, remarked, “The Macan Electric delivers impressive driving dynamics and steering sensation while providing a real sports car feel due to the sporty seating position and low center of gravity.”
Both the Macan 4 and Macan Turbo feature all-wheel drive, controlling two electric motors through the powertrain almost in real time. The electronic Porsche Traction Management (ePTM) operates about five times faster than traditional all-wheel drive systems and can react within 1/100th of a second even when slip occurs. Furthermore, the power distribution is controlled via selectable drive programs. The electronically controlled differential lock system at the rear axle, Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus), also plays a crucial role in the traction, driving stability, and lateral dynamics of the Macan Turbo.
The Macan Electric is equipped with air suspension (standard on Turbo) with Porsche Active Suspension Management electronic damping control, also available as an option for steel spring suspension. PASM includes dampers built with 2-valve technology. Thanks to the expanded damper map, the spectrum between comfortable ride quality and driving performance has also widened, making the differences between driving programs more pronounced.
The Macan Electric is the first in the Macan series to feature rear axle steering, with a maximum steering angle of 5˚. The introduction of rear axle steering, supported by the already acclaimed Porsche front axle steering, enables a tight turning radius of 11.1 m during urban driving and emergency maneuvers, while also providing excellent driving stability at high speeds.
Since 2014, Porsche has sold over 800,000 Macans globally. This success story is expected to continue with the next-generation all-electric model produced in the carbon-neutral Leipzig Porsche plant.
The Macan Electric is expected to start customer deliveries in the second half of this year. The German market starting prices, including VAT and country-specific special features, are €84,100 for the Macan 4 and €114,600 for the Macan Turbo.
The domestic launch is scheduled for the second half of this year, with model and pricing information yet to be determined.
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr