Porsche: First test with the 718 Cayman GT4 e-Performance 🎥
POWER PUR Porsche has started testing the technology components of the Mission R with the 718 Cayman GT4 e-Performance. Swiss Indycar driver Simona de Silvestro invited us to test drive the new race car.
In Bargnana near Brescia in Italy, Porsche opened the Experience Center Franciacorta opened. This experience site is about 60 hectares and includes the 2.5-kilometer Circuit Autodromo di Franciacorta.
And it was there that Simona de Silvestro invited AutoSprintCH editors to an express cab ride in the new Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 e-Performance (gallery on the right and video).
Synchronous machines deliver a massive 1000 hp
Just a glance at the technical data of the all-electric racer gets the blood pumping: Like the Mission R concept model, the two-seater uses the chassis of the 718 GT4 Clubsport, and the permanently excited synchronous machines on the front and rear axles together generate up to a massive 800 kW (1088 hp). As project manager Oliver Schwarz explains, the direct oil cooling system developed by Porsche for the electric machines and the battery pack ensures that the power really is always available.
Components made from recycled carbon fibers
The body is partly made of natural fiber composites, and recycled carbon fibers are used for some components. In addition, the three-part battery pack was kept comparatively light because the car is able to recuperate a great deal of energy over both axles during braking. As a result, the maximum 800 kW only weighs around 1600 kilograms.
Simona de Silvestro: "However, the driving style in the electric car is different," explains Simona de Silvestro: "Whereas in a race car with a combustion engine you drive as round the bends as possible to pick up as much speed as possible on exiting the bend, I drive much more angularly in the electric Porsche. At the entrance to the bend, the brakes are applied more forcefully to recuperate, and at the exit of the bend, the car accelerates immediately. And because the front wheels help with propulsion, fuel can be applied earlier."
New way of racing with an e-car
In fact, Simona doesn't hold back on the circuit. After all, she is very familiar with the most violent acceleration and braking maneuvers thanks to her wealth of racing experience in the USA.
About the new way of racing in the e-car, she says after the cab ride.
Simona de Silvestro: "Although the gearshift maneuvers, which contribute greatly to the driving pleasure in the combustion car, are no longer necessary, there are new challenges for the driver. He has to know the system down to the last detail and get to grips with the energy management in the best possible way. Only then are the fastest lap times possible."
The co-driver's conclusion: The electric Cayman's drive performance and driving dynamics are impressive - the sound inside, on the other hand, is anything but uplifting.
