Here’s Why 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo S’ Adaptive Aero System Is So Sophisticated

The new 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo S is a technological tour de force and its stellar performance owes a lot to the sophisticated aerodynamics it offers.

For the flagship 911 model of the 992 generation, Porsche has further enhanced the adaptive aerodynamics. The Porsche Active Aerodynamics (PAA) adapts the aerodynamic characteristics of the vehicle even more precisely to the driving situation, speed and selected driving mode.

The active cooling air flaps are new to PAA, acting as the third active aerodynamic component in addition to the variable front spoiler lip and the extending and tilting rear wing. The flaps now allow the realization of an Eco aerodynamic configuration, on top of the basic PAA Speed and PAA Performance configurations.

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Located in the right and left air intakes of the front apron, the continuously adjustable cooling air flaps enable a lower driving resistance and thus reduced fuel consumption. The flaps are closed as far as possible from 70 km/h (43 mph) to favor fuel efficiency. From 150 km/h (93 mph), the flaps open linearly to achieve the optimum aero-dynamic balance at high speed.

PAA has also been extended on the 911 Turbo S to include a Wet Mode function, which moves the aerodynamic balance towards the rear axle for greater driving stability in wet road conditions. There is also an airbrake function, which produces higher drag and greater downforce in the event of full braking at high speed. As a result, the 911 Turbo S achieves a shorter braking distance and greater driving stability.

PAA also regulates the changed air flow around the vehicle when the sliding roof or convertible top is open. In total, there are eight different aerodynamic configurations, each achieved by a specific combination of the active aerodynamic components. The drag coefficient of the 911 Turbo S varies depending on the aerodynamic setting, with the lowest value of 0.33 being achieved with closed flaps and retracted front and rear spoilers.

To enhance driving stability and dynamics at higher speeds, the new active front spoiler and rear wing have increased the downforce by 15 percent. The maximum downforce or around 170 kg (375 lbs) is achieved in the Performance position, with Sport Plus mode activated.