Porsche recently teased a new addition to the Taycan lineup and it’s the entry-level variant that was introduced in China last year. Set to arrive at U.S. dealerships this spring, the 2021 Taycan will start at US$ 79,900 – excluding a US$ 1,350 delivery, processing and handling fee. That’s US$ 23,900 less than the Taycan 4S, but the model is still more expensive than the Tesla Model S Long Range which begins at US$ 69,420. That being said, the Porsche qualifies for a US$ 7,500 federal tax rebate.

While the cost savings are substantial, there are a handful of disadvantages to the entry-level Taycan. First and foremost, the model has a single electric motor that powers the rear wheels and produces up to 402 hp and 344 Nm torque. This enables the car to accelerate from 0-96 km/h in 5.1 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 230 km/h. Porsche didn’t mention an EPA-estimated range, but the model comes standard with a 79.2 kWh battery pack. In Europe, it allows for a WLTP range of up to 431 km.

If that’s not far enough, customers can upgrade to the Performance Battery Plus which has a larger capacity of 93.4 kWh. This increases the WLTP range to 484 km, while the electric motor has been upgraded to produce up to 469 hp and 357 Nm of torque. Thanks to the extra power, the model can still accelerate from 0-96 km/h in 5.1 seconds despite having the larger battery pack which weighs an additional 77.1 kg. When battery is low, drivers will be thankful for the Taycan’s quick charging technology. It enables both batteries to go from a 5-80% charge in as little as 22.5 minutes under ideal conditions.

Putting the powertrain aside, the entry-level Taycan features a slightly revised exterior with 19-inch silver painted wheels that cover black brake calipers. This is in contrast to the Taycan 4S, which has red calipers and polished alloy wheels. That’s barely worth mentioning, but Porsche noted the “front apron, side sills and rear diffuser are the same as those on the Taycan 4S” so that’s pretty much the only way to tell them apart.

In terms of equipment, the base Taycan comes standard with LED headlights, a 10.9-inch infotainment system and the Porsche Active Suspension Management system. An assortment of options will be available including an air suspension, 20- and 21-inch wheels as well as surface coated and ceramic coated brakes.

The 2021 Taycan is currently available to order and the model comes with three-years of free charging from Electrify America.