Would you believe Porsche’s stunning Mission E concept debuted all the way back at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show? Time flies doesn’t it.
Since then, the German sports car manufacturer has been hard at work developing a production version of the Mission E, and initial indications are that it’s staying true to the concept. Let’s take an illustrated closer look at what to expect.
Jaw-dropping Design:
Make no mistake about it, the concept was breathtakingly beautiful. Luckily, recently-spied test mules indicate the production version will carry over a near-identical styling.
However, there are some subtle changes at the front end. The lower grille area is a tad more 3-dimensional, yet fussier in execution. Headlights appear less recessed and the cutline on the front fenders no longer join up with the front doors - this is due to a charging port now being located in that fender space.
Moving to the sides, the greenhouse has been massaged longer towards the back, improving rear occupant access. The lower sills have lost their scalloped styling, although this may change for the final product. Perhaps the most impressive view is of the rear as the concept’s powerful stance with broad haunches remains, with only the subtlest changes in lower diffuser and an actual trunk opening.
* Porsche Mission E Concept Interior pictured above
Neck-snapping Performance:
Porsche’s all-electric model will mimic the Mission E concept’s 600 horses, via two electric motors, which bodes well for performance figures, doesn’t it? Expect a 0-60 mph launch in less than 3 seconds.
The internally code-named “J1” will utilize a battery pack with an estimated range north of 310 miles (about 500 km). To make life easier, Porsche have confirmed its Turbo electric Charging system will make an appearance; this means an 80 percent recharge should be achievable within 15 minutes.
In Europe, this will be possible by using a charging network jointly developed by Porsche, BMW, Audi, Ford and Daimler. Porsche claims it can charge at a capacity of up to 320kW per vehicle - imagine how much faster those charging times could be by utilizing solid-state batteries.
Out-handling the Competition:
To be frank, if Porsche would have one advantage over competitors such as the Tesla Model S, BMW’s i Vision Dynamics and Fisker Emotion - it’s in sports car pedigree.
Whilst the aforementioned are more luxurious-oriented, the Mission E will offer a driving experience that driving enthusiasts crave for (sans any authentic engine noise of course). An electric vehicle that handles as great as it accelerates and looks? Where do I sign!
So when can we expect an official launch and some wheel time? Sources place it landing in 2019 at the earliest, with a similar starting price to the entry-level Panamera that begins at around $85,000. Additional variants and performance versions are anticipated to come on stream later down the track.
Tell us what you think of the production-spec Mission E in the comments below.
By Josh Byrnes
Photo Renderings Copyright Carscoops / Josh Byrnes
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PORSCHE MISSION E CONCEPT
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