Porsche has taken a significant leap in the EV market with the unveiling of its electric crossover, the Macan. The new EV, offered in two versions, the 402-horsepower Macan 4 and the formidable 630-horsepower Macan Turbo, represents a major shift for the German automaker’s top-selling model.
Built on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE), co-developed with Audi, this platform incorporates an 800-volt electrical architecture. This new foundation will not only support the Macan but also future Audi EVs like the A6 and Q6, and potentially an all-electric Porsche Cayenne.
The Macan’s battery setup is advanced, utilizing Lithium-Nickel Manganese Cobalt cells in 12 modules for a substantial 95 kWh capacity. Porsche, a pioneer in 800-volt EV technology with the Taycan, continues this trend, allowing for reduced copper use and faster charging capabilities. The Macan can charge at a remarkable 270 kW with an 800-volt DC charger.
Both Macan models feature permanent-magnet synchronous motors on each axle, with the rear motor rotated 180 degrees for better weight distribution. Performance figures are impressive: the Macan 4 reaches 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds, while the Turbo version achieves this in just 3.1 seconds.
The new Macan ditches the two-speed gearbox found in the Taycan, opting for a single gear reduction to meet speed and acceleration goals. This design choice benefits the vehicle’s efficiency and weight.
Porsche has decided against a one-pedal drive mode for the Macan, focusing on regenerative braking via the brake pedal, with up to 240 kW energy regeneration depending on battery charge.
The Macan boasts a sophisticated multi-link suspension system, with air springs and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard. A new optional feature is the rear-wheel steering system, enhancing maneuverability at low speeds and stability at high speeds.
Design-wise, the Macan retains its iconic coupe-like silhouette, with Taycan-inspired daytime running lights and a lower hoodline. The vehicle also achieves an impressively low drag coefficient of 0.25, thanks to active aerodynamic features.
While the wheelbase has grown by 3.4 inches, the overall length has only increased by 2.3 inches. The interior echoes other Porsche models, featuring an all-digital gauge cluster, a wide infotainment screen, and optional augmented reality heads-up display.