Porsche has kicked off 2024 by announcing a new addition to its Taycan lineup, a range-topping trim level that is already making headlines as the fastest electric Porsche around the challenging Nürburgring track. While the model hasn’t been officially named or fully unveiled, a pre-series version driven by factory development driver Lars Kern completed a lap in an impressive 7:07.55.
This lap time is notably 26 seconds faster than the Taycan Turbo S equipped with the Performance Package’s time set in August 2022. To provide context, Kern’s time in the upcoming Taycan version is also faster than the 6:47.25 set by a 991-generation 911 GT2 RS with the Weissach Package and the 6:57 clocked by the 918 Spyder in September 2013. In terms of bragging rights against competitors, the Taycan outperformed the Tesla Model S Plaid’s time of 7:25.23 by nearly 20 seconds.
The impressive performance at the Nürburgring suggests that the electric drivetrain of the upcoming Taycan version delivers consistent and repeatable performance, even under demanding conditions. While the model won’t be fully unveiled until later in 2024, preliminary images reveal a trim-specific body kit featuring a front splitter with winglets, air intakes below the headlights (presumably cooling the front brakes), side skirts, and a substantial wing. The pre-production prototype used for the lap also featured a roll cage and racing bucket seats.
Prior spy shots have hinted at what could be the Taycan Turbo GT, showcasing a body kit with wider wheel arches, winglets on the bumper, and an air diffuser at the rear. Although specific details about chassis and suspension changes are yet to be officially confirmed, it is reasonable to assume enhancements to complement the expected increase in power. The current most powerful Taycan model is the Turbo S, boasting up to 750 horsepower. The upcoming flagship Taycan model’s lap time at the Nürburgring places it in the realm of supercars, marking an exciting addition to Porsche’s electric lineup.