The new Porsche Taycan has firmly established itself as the fastest electric car by setting a new record at the Nürburgring. Porsche development driver Lars Kern showcased his exceptional skills behind the wheel of a pre-series Taycan, clocking an astonishing lap time of 7:07.55 minutes on the Nordschleife, beating Tesla Model S Plaid by over 17 seconds. This feat not only breaks the previous record but does so by a significant margin, being 26 seconds faster than Kern’s last record drive in a Taycan Turbo S Sport sedan equipped with the performance package in August 2022.
The achievement of the Taycan at the Nürburgring is not just a new record; it’s a statement in the world of motorsport. Kevin Giek, head of the model line, expressed his awe at the accomplishment, noting that a 26-second improvement in lap time is monumental in racing terms. The Taycan’s performance elevates it to the ranks of electric hypercars, a testament to Porsche’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology.
Lars Kern’s experience and skill were pivotal in achieving this new record. The Nürburgring-Nordschleife, known for its demanding and treacherous layout, was at Kern’s exclusive disposal for the day. This allowed him to push the Taycan to its limits in a controlled environment. For safety, the test car was equipped with a legally prescribed roll cage and racing bucket seats. The improvements in the Taycan’s performance were evident throughout the course, with the pre-series car reaching speeds up to 25 km/h faster than the 2022 Taycan Turbo S in certain sections.
The difference in performance between the new pre-series Taycan and the current Turbo S model is stark. By the time Kern crossed the finish line near Grandstand 13 (T13) in the pre-series Taycan, he would have only just been entering the Antoniusbuche section during his 2022 record drive in the Taycan Turbo S. This puts the distance between the two performances at over 1.3 kilometers – a clear illustration of the significant leap in performance achieved on the 20.8 km course.
Porsche’s achievement at the Nürburgring is a clear indication of the advancements in electric vehicle technology. The Taycan’s record-breaking lap is not just a triumph for Porsche but a milestone for electric vehicles in motorsport. It challenges the perception of electric cars as being inferior to their gasoline counterparts in terms of performance and speed.
The onboard video of the complete lap, set to be published in mid-March, is eagerly anticipated by automotive enthusiasts and industry experts alike. It will provide an in-depth look at the Taycan’s capabilities and the skillful driving that led to this record-setting performance.
Porsche’s success at the Nürburgring with the Taycan is a significant moment in the history of electric vehicles. It demonstrates the immense potential of electric cars in high-performance settings and sets a new benchmark for others in the field. As the automotive industry continues to evolve towards electrification, achievements like this are pivotal in showcasing the exciting future of electric vehicles.
The Taycan’s record at the Nürburgring is more than just a number; it’s a symbol of progress, innovation, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead in the world of electric mobility. Porsche’s commitment to excellence and continuous improvement is evident in this achievement, and it sets the stage for further advancements in electric vehicle technology. As the fastest electric car at the Nürburgring, the Porsche Taycan has not only made history but has also paved the way for a new era in automotive performance.
