Jay Leno is one of the most noted car collectors and enthusiasts anywhere in the world and recently had the opportunity to test out the new 2020 Porsche Taycan Turbo S through some of the streets around Los Angeles.
The idea of Porsche launching an all-electric sedan a decade ago would have been unthinkable and we’re sure to some Porsche enthusiasts, is still a little controversial. However, times are changing and Porsche thought now would be the perfect time to venture into the EV space and create a Tesla Model S rival.
Watch: Which One Charges Faster, The Tesla Model 3 Or The Porsche Taycan?
In range-topping Taycan Turbo S guise, the sports sedan features a pair of electric motors that combine to produce 750 hp and 774 lb-ft (1,050 Nm) of torque with Overboost enabled or 616 hp during normal driving scenarios. The car can power to 62 mph (100 km/h) in roughly 2.6 seconds, 124 mph (200 km/h) in 9.8 seconds, and run through to 161 mph (260 km/h). One of the most intriguing aspects of the Taycan is that unlike most other EVs on the market, it actually features a two-speed transmission that helps ensure acceleration remains strong even beyond 124 mph (200 km/h) when other EVs can start to slow down.
Underpinning the Porsche is an innovative 800-volt architecture that means the car can charge at up to 270 kW, which is enough for the battery to jump from 5 to 80 per cent charge in as little as 22.5 minutes.
What does Leno think of all this technology? Check out the video below to find out.