Porsche has confirmed a production version of the Mission E electric, Tesla Model S-rivalling, sedan is going to go into production. Investing 1 billion euros (around AU$1.48 billon) in total, including at the Zuffenhausen assembly plant, the project will create over 1000 jobs.
The Mission E concept (shown) was one of the show-stoppers of the Frankfurt Motorshow in September, featuring a unique platform with front and rear electric motors totalling 440kW and more than 500km of range. Porsche says the car is good for a 0-100km/h time of under 3.5 seconds, with the ability to be recharged to 80 percent in just 15 minutes via an 800-volt charger capable. A wireless induction charger will be optional, the company says.
The announcement was made by the charmain of the executive board at Porsche, Dr Oliver Bloom. In a statement he was quoted as saying:
“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.”
Presently, Porsche’s core sports car lineup (911, Boxster, Cayman) is supplemented by two SUVs ( Macan and Cayenne) and a large lift-back sedan (Panamera). Although the latter products were a departure from the brand when initially launched, they have been very successful and help fund the development of the aforementioned sports cars. The Mission E (will have a different name) is expected to launch around 2019. It’s likely to adopt a slightly different design and interior to the concept.
