Confirming what it broadly hinted at in Frankfurt, Porsche says it will build a production version of the electric-powered Mission E Concept. Set to bow by the end of the decade, this sleek 4-door sports sedan will break new ground for the automaker. In his announcement, Wolfgang Porsche, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Porsche AG, noted: "With Mission E, we are making a clear statement about the future of the brand. Even in a greatly changing motoring world, Porsche will maintain its front-row position with this fascinating sports car."
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Over 600 horsepower and 311-mile range
While final specs for the production model are still being determined, Porsche indicates its nascent rival for cars like the Tesla Model S will closely follow the Mission E Concept’s formula for a 4-passenger high-performance machine that offers day-to-day practicality. To that end, expect this ultra-green Porsche to have over 600 horsepower shipped to the corners via a sophisticated on-demand AWD system and offer 4-wheel steering, 0-60 mph sprint times under 3.4 seconds and a per-charge range in excess of 311 miles. To quickly replenish the lithium-ion battery packs that will be integrated into the floor of the vehicle, Porsche is developing a new 800-volt wired charger that’s twice as powerful as today’s units and will need just 15 minutes to port over an 80-percent charge. The automaker also is developing a wireless induction system.
To support this landmark program, Porsche is investing over $1 billion to create a new assembly plant at its Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen headquarters that will include a new paint shop, larger body shop and an expansion of its existing engine factory to build electric motors. More funding also will be forthcoming for the famed Weissach tech development center. Ultimately, Porsche expects to add about 1,000 new jobs.
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Porsche Executive Board Chairman Dr. Oliver Blume said "We are resolutely taking on the challenge of electric mobility. Even with solely battery-powered sports cars, Porsche is remaining true to its philosophy and offering our customers the sportiest and technologically most sophisticated model in this market segment."
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