IONITY – Pan-European High-Power Charging Network Enables E-Mobility for Long Distance Travel

IONITY – Pan-European High-Power Charging Network Enables E-Mobility for Long Distance Travel

IONITY – Pan-European High-Power Charging Network Enables E-Mobility for Long Distance Travel

BMW Group, Daimler AG, Ford Motor Company and the Volkswagen Group with Audi and Porsche today announced joint venture IONITY that will develop and implement a High-Power Charging (HPC) network for electric vehicles across Europe. Launching approximately 400 HPC stations by 2020, IONITY will make long-distance journeys easier and marks an important step for electric vehicles. Based in Munich, Germany, the joint venture is led by Chief Executive Officer Michael Hajesch and Chief Operating Officer Marcus Groll, with a growing team, set to number 50 by the start of 2018.

“The first pan-European HPC network plays an essential role in establishing a market for electric vehicles. IONITY will deliver our common goal of providing customers with fast charging and digital payment capability, to facilitate long-distance travel,” said Hajesch.

Creation of 20 charging stations starting in 2017
A total of 20 stations will be opened to the public this year, located on major roads in Germany, Norway and Austria, at intervals of 120 km, through partnerships with “Tank & Rast”, “Circle K” and “OMV”. Through 2018, the network will expand to more than 100 stations, each one enabling multiple customers, driving different manufacturer cars, to charge their vehicles simultaneously.

With a capacity of up to 350 kW per charging point, the network will use the European charging standard Combined Charging System to significantly reduce charging times compared to existing systems. The brand-agnostic approach and Europe-wide distribution is expected to help make electrified vehicles more appealing.

Choosing the best locations takes into account potential integration with existing charging technologies and IONITY is negotiating with existing infrastructure initiatives, including those supported by the participating companies as well as political institutions. The investment underlines the commitment that the participating manufacturers are making in electric vehicles and relies on international co-operation across the industry.

The founding partners, BMW Group, Daimler AG, Ford Motor Company and the Volkswagen Group, have equal shares in the joint venture, while other automotive manufacturers are invited to help expand the network.

courtesy: www.audi-mediacenter.com

Porsche unveils tombola vehicle for the 2017 Opera Ball

Porsche unveils tombola vehicle for the 2017 Opera Ball

Porsche unveils tombola vehicle for the 2017 Opera Ball

As well as the Russian Consul General Andrey Dronov, the guests included the renowned star chef Vladimir Mukhin from Moscow, who took the guests on a culinary journey with his modern interpretation of Russian cuisine. The highlight of the reception was the introduction of this year’s tombola vehicle: Actress Melanie Marschke and the Chair of the Executive Board at Porsche Leipzig, Gerd Rupp, unveiled the 718 Cayman in Miami Blue, worth over EUR 73,000. The sports car will be raffled off on November 4, 2017 at the Leipzig Opera House in aid of the children’s charity Leipzig hilft Kindern e.V.

“Porsche has formed a successful partnership through the Leipzig Opera Ball – it has been going for five years already. The focus for us is our social engagement in the region. So we are delighted that we can support the tombola once again this year through a highly appealing donation”, says Gerd Rupp.

The Leipzig hilft Kindern e.V. charity’s mission is to invest in the future of disadvantaged children. To this end, it engages in a wide variety of projects, one of which this year is the Haus Leben e.V. charity. With the guiding principle of “preventing, healing and overcoming cancer”, the charity supports cancer patients and their loved ones by helping them deal with the illness both emotionally and practically, and empowering them with their own self-help strategies. “With Porsche, we have a strong supporter on our side. For this, we are very grateful. It means we can implement the social principles of the Leipzig Opera Ball and it gives the evening a special touch of glamour. We have already achieved a lot together in previous years and we would like to continue in this vein”, says Vivian Honert-Boddin, Managing Director of Opera Ball Leipzig Production GmbH.

courtesy: newsroom.porsche.com

Porsche 911 GT3 with Touring Package celebrates its world premiere in Frankfurt

Porsche 911 GT3 with Touring Package celebrates its world premiere in Frankfurt

Porsche 911 GT3 with Touring Package celebrates its world premiere in Frankfurt

The 911 GT3 with Touring Package will be unveiled at the 67th International Motor Show (IAA), which will take place from September 12 to 24, 2017, in Frankfurt. Instead of the fixed rear wing, when equipped with the optional Touring Package, the GT3 will have an adaptive rear spoiler similar to that of the 911 Carrera models. Beneath its understated exterior is pure motorsport-derived technology: The four-liter naturally aspirated flat-six engine develops 500 horsepower and generates 339 lb.-ft. of torque. The 911 GT3 with Touring Package sprints from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.8 seconds and reaches a top track speed of 196 miles per hour. The Touring Package will be available exclusively in combination with the six-speed manual transmission.

The name “Touring Package” harkens back to a variant of the 911 Carrera RS from 1973. The very pure 911 design and classic interior features were key elements of this model. The new 911 GT3 when equipped with the Touring Package follows the same concept, and retains the two-seater arrangement of the 911 GT3. Apart from certain Alcantara®-covered interior fittings, almost all 911 GT3 options are also available in combination with the Touring Package. This includes all available exterior colors, wheel choices, the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) system, the front axle lift system, LED headlights, three seat options, and the Sport Chrono Package.

A high-performance sports car in every aspect

With the exception of the rear spoiler treatment, the body of the GT3 with the optional Touring Package remains unchanged. Like the other GT3 models, it is based upon the body of the 911 Carrera 4 model, which is 1.7 inches (44 millimeters) wider at the rear wheel arches. It sits about one inch (25 millimeters) lower than the 911 Carrera S. It also has large air intakes in the specially designed front fascia, as well as the air intake that is typical of the 911 GT3 model, located in front of the luggage compartment lid. In contrast to the other GT3 models, the front turn signal lenses and the taillights are not tinted. The 911 GT3 with Touring Package sits on forged center lock alloy wheels. At the front, 245/35 ZR 20 tires are fitted on nine-inch wide wheels, while at the rear 305/30 ZR 20 tires are mounted on twelve-inch wide wheels.

Sporty aerodynamics: Rear spoiler with additional gurney flap

The subtle differences in the Porsche GT3 model when it is equipped with the Touring Package are primarily visible at the rear. The automatically extending rear spoiler from the 911 Carrera models is equipped with an aerodynamic lip (“Gurney Flap”) finished in body color. The specially designed rear decklid grille bears a new “GT3 touring” logo. Other distinguishing features include side window surrounds, Sport Exhaust tailpipes, and headlight washer system covers which are finished in silver, as well as the Porsche logo at the rear. With the further available “Touring Package – Exterior in Black” option, these elements are finished in black, as on other 911 GT3 models. In this case, the front turn signal lenses and the taillights are tinted.

Leather interior

The interior creates the feel of a classic sports car with a manual transmission. In line with the character of a GT car, leather is prevalent rather than Alcantara®, which is used in other GT3 models. The steering wheel rim with twelve o’clock marker, shift lever, door panel armrests, center console storage compartment lid and interior door handles are upholstered in smooth-finish leather. The seat centers are made of black fabric. The headrests feature embossed Porsche crests and all seams in the partial leather interior are sewn in black thread. The finishing touch to the interior is black brushed aluminum trim.

Powerful six-cylinder naturally aspirated engine from Porsche’s motorsport heritage

The powertrain and chassis are identical on all 911 GT3 vehicles with manual transmission, including models equipped with the Touring Package. The naturally aspirated four-liter flat-six engine is taken from the 911 RSR and 911 GT3 Cup race cars. It is the most powerful naturally aspirated flat-six direct-injection engine that Porsche has ever developed for a street-legal car. The engine is characterized by its high-revving nature. The crankshaft spins at up to 9,000 revolutions per minute, which is truly extraordinary, even for a sports car engine.

The gear ratios of the six gears are precisely tuned to the power delivery and torque curve of the engine and offer particularly sporty shifting characteristics. An automatic rev-match feature delivers an exciting sound on downshifts. This function is activated via the “Sport” button on the center console, which enables a faster synchronization of the gears. The GT Sport manual transmission transfers the power to a mechanical rear differential lock with brake-based torque vectoring (PTV).

Fast in the corners, secure on the straights: Rigid chassis with rear-axle steering

The chassis of the 911 GT3 is a testament to Porsche’s experience in motorsport. In addition to the basic layout, the chassis also boasts superior handling characteristics, thanks predominantly to the standard active rear-axle steering. Depending upon the vehicle’s speed, it steers either in the opposite or the same direction as the front wheels, thereby improving the vehicle’s agility or stability. The size of the tires on both axles promote strong braking, sharp turn-in, and excellent traction.

Porsche Track Precision app as standard

In addition to Porsche Communication Management (PCM), including an online navigation module with real-time traffic information, every 911 GT3 model includes as standard equipment the Connect Plus module and the Porsche Track Precision app. This app enables the driver to display, record, and analyze detailed driving data on their smartphone.

Pricing and availability

The Touring Package option is now available to order and is expected to reach U.S. dealers in early 2018. Like other 911 GT3 models, the version with Touring Package costs $143,600, excluding any available options and the $1,050 delivery, processing, and handling fee.

courtesy: press.porsche.com

The new 2019 Porsche Cayenne Turbo

The new 2019 Porsche Cayenne Turbo

The new 2019 Porsche Cayenne Turbo

The 2019 Porsche Cayenne Turbo took its place at the top of the model line at the 67th Frankfurt International Motor Show. The new model from the third-generation Cayenne range is once again raising the bar for sporty performance in the segment. Its twin-turbo four-liter V8 engine delivers 550 hp. The combination of innovations including a three-chamber air suspension, staggered tire sizes and new high-performance Porsche Surface Coated Brake (PSCB) technology result in improved driving dynamics. With additional options, such as rear-axle steering and electric roll stabilization with a 48-volt system, the SUV achieves the driving characteristics of a sports car. The new Cayenne Turbo accelerates from zero to 60 mph in as little as 3.7 seconds when equipped with the optional Sport Chrono Package toward a top track speed of 177 mph, representing gains over the previous-generation Cayenne Turbo S.

With an exclusive front end and the LED main headlights of the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS), the Cayenne Turbo has a dominant appearance. At night, the new Turbo sets itself apart from other Cayenne models with its double-row front light modules. Widened wheel arches with painted trim and special 21-inch wheels reserved for the Cayenne Turbo characterize the side view. Turbo-specific twin tailpipes distinguish this model from its six-cylinder siblings.

Interior design elements including the center-mounted grab handles continue in the third-generation Cayenne Turbo. Like other members of the new Cayenne family the newest model features the Porsche Advanced Cockpit, which includes a high-definition 12.3-inch screen in the dashboard and an analog tachometer flanked by two seven-inch full-HD screens. Virtually all of the vehicle functions can be displayed and operated using the high-resolution display and touchscreen of the Porsche Advanced Cockpit. Among them, for example, is the standard 710-watt BOSE® Surround Sound System. Other equipment newly included by default in the latest Cayenne Turbo includes 18-way sport seats, seatbacks with integrated headrests, and standard heating functions for all outboard seats as well as the steering wheel.

Greater power, greater torque: twin-turbo V8 with 550 hp
At the heart of the Cayenne Turbo is the twin-turbo four-liter V8 with 550 hp and 567 lb-ft of peak torque (increases of 30 hp and 14 lb-ft versus the previous Cayenne Turbo). Standard Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive works with the new eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission to improve acceleration, speed, and highway cruising comfort. The new Cayenne Turbo exceeds the previous Cayenne Turbo S in many areas. For example, it sprints to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds (or 3.7 seconds when equipped with the optional Sport Chrono Package, 0.1 second quicker than the previous Cayenne Turbo S) and boasts a higher top track speed of 177 mph. The turbochargers are arranged inside the cylinder V, in a “central turbo layout.” The shortened exhaust paths between the combustion chambers and the turbochargers improve engine responsiveness and power delivery. This setup also creates a more compact package that is advantageous because it allows for a lower engine installation that helps to lower the center of gravity for improved handling characteristics.

Active chassis with three-chamber air suspension and staggered tires

The new lightweight chassis of the Cayenne Turbo helps improve driving dynamics versus its predecessor. In particular, the combination of a new three-chamber air suspension with the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) active shock-absorbers extends the range considerably. By using three air chambers per spring strut, the chassis is able to map a wider range of spring rates than the previous system could, allowing for improvements in both comfort- and performance-focused settings.

With six selectable height levels, the ground clearance can be manually adjusted to suit the off-road terrain. These are also actively controlled via five new driving programs for on- and off-road use. The default setting is the on-road program. Four other modes activate the conditioning for mild off-road terrain: Mud, Gravel, Sand, or Rocks. The drive mode, chassis settings, and differential locks can be selected to adapt to the relevant setting.

Complemented by optional rear-axle steering, electric Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) roll stabilization connected to a 48-volt vehicle electrical system and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV+), the new Cayenne Turbo achieves impressive driving dynamics. Sports car performance is an even greater emphasis in the new Cayenne than past models. Accordingly, the front and rear wheel sizes are staggered to measure 285/40 at the front and 315/35 at the rear. This produces even greater longitudinal and lateral power application for agile handing.

New Cayenne Turbo gets active aero and Porsche Surface Coated Brakes

The new Cayenne Turbo integrates an adaptive roof spoiler as a component of its active aerodynamics. Depending on the position, this optimizes efficiency, increases downforce on the rear axle, or shortens braking distances from higher speeds in the airbrake position. At full braking from 155 mph, the Cayenne Turbo comes to a stop up to 79 inches earlier as a result. The aerodynamic system therefore complements the effect of the new high-performance Porsche Surface Coated Brake (PSCB) which is included as standard with the Cayenne Turbo. The tungsten carbide layer applied to the cast-iron discs increases braking performance and wear resistance while reducing the amount of brake dust at the same time, meaning less dirt on the rims. The Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake system (PCCB) is still available as the top-performing option.

The new 2019 Cayenne Turbo will be available for ordering in the U.S. market in December, 2017 with arrival at dealers in Fall 2018. MSRP is $124,600 excluding $1,050 for delivery, and processing.

courtesy: press.porsche.com

 

Porsche unveils the most powerful street-legal 911 model of all time

Porsche unveils the most powerful street-legal 911 model of all time

Porsche unveils the most powerful street-legal 911 model of all time

The fastest and most powerful street-legal 911 model ever is ready for launch: The new 2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS is celebrating its official world premiere at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK from June 30th to July 2nd. At the heart of this high-performance sports car is a 700-horsepower twin-turbo flat-six engine. Weighing in at 3,241 pounds with a full tank of fuel, the lightweight two-seater accelerates from zero to 60 miles per hour in 2.7 seconds. The new 911 GT2 RS can reach a top track speed of 211 miles per hour, and it surpasses the 2011 911 GT2 RS by 80 horsepower. The 2018 911 GT2 RS delivers 553 lb.-ft. of torque, an increase of 37 lb.-ft. compared to the previous 911 GT2 RS.

The 3.8-liter engine in the GT2 RS is based on the power plant found in the current 911 Turbo S model. In order to increase performance further, larger turbochargers push an increased volume of air into the combustion chambers. A new additional cooling system delivers optimum cooling at peak loads by spraying water on the intercoolers when the intake air temperature reaches a determined threshold. This reduces the inlet temperature under boost and allows for optimum power output, even under extreme conditions. The customized GT seven-speed double-clutch Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission in the new GT2 RS enables maximum efficiency with uninterrupted torque transfer. The specially developed lightweight titanium exhaust system weighs around 15 pounds less than the system used in the 911 Turbo and delivers a particularly emotional sound.

Porsche Design is celebrating the debut of this very special high-performance sports car by releasing a special-issue watch. Offering a nod to the world of motorsport, the Porsche Design 911 GT2 RS watch is exclusively available to owners of the new vehicle and can only be ordered in conjunction with the new GT model.

Race-bred chassis for exceptional cornering

The 2018 911 GT2 RS has exceptional dry grip thanks to its race-bred chassis with rear axle steering and Ultra High Performance (UHP) tires. The stability management system is tuned for spirited driving in the new 911 GT2 RS. The PSM can be deactivated in two stages using the ESC OFF and ESC+TC OFF functions. Large air intakes and outlets and the striking rear wing underscore the emphasis on aerodynamics and down-force. The large, wide wheels with 265/35 ZR 20 tires at the front and 325/30 ZR 21 tires at the rear help ensure outstanding braking and cornering potential. The 911 GT2 RS features Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) as standard. The front fenders, wheel housing vents, outer shells on the Sport Design exterior mirrors, air intakes on the rear quarter panels, and parts of the rear are made from carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), as are many of the interior components. The front luggage compartment lid is also made from carbon fiber to make the vehicle as light as possible, while the standard roof panel is made from magnesium. Both of these body panels feature a visible recess in the center, a design element previously used on the 2016 911 GT3 RS.

Optional Weissach package saves 40 pounds of weight

The optional Weissach package reduces weight by nearly 40 pounds, further enhancing the vehicle dynamics of the 911 GT2 RS. The package includes magnesium wheels and numerous elements made of carbon fiber. For instance, with this optional package, the roof and anti-roll bars are made of carbon fiber, as are the end links on both axles. The 911 GT2 RS forged magnesium wheels reduce both overall and unsprung weight by over 25 pounds, complementing the vehicle’s handling characteristics. When equipped with the Weissach Package, the carbon fiber weave of the luggage compartment lid and the roof are left largely exposed, and are painted with a centrally placed decorative strip in the vehicle color for a distinctive look. The Weissach package is optionally available with an MSRP of $31,000.

A truly sporty interior

The interior of the 911 GT2 RS is dominated by red Alcantara®, black leather, and carbon fiber trim pieces as standard. The GT2 RS Sport steering wheel with shift paddles is also included as standard. Drivers and passengers can experience the driving dynamics of the high-performance sports car in Full Bucket Seats with carbon fiber reinforced backrests, which offer a high level of comfort and lateral support. As in every 911 model, Porsche Communication Management (PCM) serves as the central control unit for audio, navigation, and communication. Porsche Connect Plus and the Porsche Track Precision app are also included as standard, enabling detailed recording, display, and analysis of driving data on a smartphone.

The optional Chrono Package expands the PCM functions to include a performance display, which can be used to display, save, and evaluate lap times. The package also includes a stopwatch on the dashboard featuring an analog and digital display. The Chrono Package on the 911 GT2 RS also provides preparation for the lap trigger available from Porsche Tequipment. When using the Porsche Track Precision app in conjunction with the infrared transmitter placed at the side of the track, the lap trigger receiver enables drivers to record lap times with a higher level of precision.

Exclusive watch for owners: Porsche Design 911 GT2 RS Chronograph

Porsche Design has teamed up with Porsche Motorsport to develop the 911 GT2 RS Chronograph exclusively for 911 GT2 RS owners. The timepiece housing is made of lightweight titanium. At its heart is the first clock movement developed by Porsche Design, the product of three years’ work. The caliber 01.200 includes a flyback function, a load-path-optimized movement bridge, and an official COSC certificate of authenticity.

The flyback function is inspired by motorsport and represents a special feature of the Porsche Design GT2 RS watch. On a traditional chronograph, the buttons must be pressed three times in order to measure consecutive time intervals: The first press stops the chronograph, the second resets it, and the third restarts the measuring process. On chronographs with a flyback function, these processes happen automatically and in rapid succession. The stop function and the ongoing time display are clearly separated using yellow markings. Many of the details on the timepiece are based on the design details of the GT2 RS. The tungsten winding rotor is modeled after the rims of the 911 GT2 RS. The clock face is made of carbon fiber, while the design of the time display matches the instrument cluster and the tachometer. The 911 GT2 RS and its watch counterpart are exclusively available at authorized Porsche dealers worldwide. The vehicle and watch are produced and customized in line with each customer’s wishes and are delivered together.

Pricing and availability

The 2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS model is available to order with a base MSRP of $293,200, excluding the $1,050 delivery, processing and handling fee. It will reach U.S. dealers in early 2018.

courtesy: press.porsche.com