Would you believe Porsche’s stunning Mission E
concept debuted all the way back at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show? Time flies
doesn’t it.
Since then, the German sports car manufacturer has
been hard at work developing a production version of the Mission E, and initial
indications are that it’s staying true to the concept. Let’s take an
illustrated closer look at what to expect. Make no mistake about it, the
concept was breathtakingly beautiful. Luckily, recently-spied test mules indicate
the production version will carry over a near-identical styling.
However, there are some subtle changes at the front
end. The lower grille area is a tad more 3-dimensional, yet fussier in
execution. Headlights appear less recessed and the cutline on the front fenders
no longer join up with the front doors - this is due to a charging port now
being located in that fender space.
Moving to the sides, the greenhouse has been
massaged longer towards the back, improving rear occupant access. The lower
sills have lost their scalloped styling, although this may change for the final
product. Perhaps the most impressive view is of the rear as the concept’s
powerful stance with broad haunches remains, with only the subtlest changes in
lower diffuser and an actual trunk opening.
Porsche’s all-electric model will mimic the Mission
E concept’s 600 horses, via two electric motors, which bodes well for
performance figures, doesn’t it? Expect a 0-60 mph launch in less than 3
seconds.
The internally code-named “J1” will utilize a
battery pack with an estimated range north of 310 miles (about 500 km). To make
life easier, Porsche have confirmed its Turbo electric Charging system will
make an appearance; this means an 80 percent recharge should be achievable
within 15 minutes.
In Europe, this will be possible by using a charging
network jointly developed by Porsche, BMW, Audi, Ford and Daimler. Porsche
claims it can charge at a capacity of up to 320kW per vehicle - imagine how
much faster those charging times could be by utilizing solid-state batteries.
So when can we expect an official launch and some
wheel time? Sources place it landing in 2019 at the earliest, with a similar
starting price to the entry-level Panamera that begins at around $85,000.
Additional variants and performance versions are anticipated to come on stream
later down the track.
