Introduction
In a groundbreaking event at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) in India, the Porsche Taycan Turbo S, a powerful all-electric sedan boasting 761 horsepower, etched its name in history by setting a new lap record. This achievement is even more remarkable when considering that it trailed the 911 GT3 RS, a high-performance gas car, by a mere 10.459 seconds – a testament to the Taycan's formidable capabilities.
The Impressive Lap Time of Taycan Turbo S
Clocking in at an astonishing 2 minutes and 10.313 seconds, the Taycan Turbo S demonstrated its prowess around the 5.125km circuit. While this lap time might seem slower when compared to the GT3 RS, it's essential to grasp the revolutionary nature of this record for a production electric vehicle. Underneath the sleek exterior, the Taycan Turbo S harbors two electric motors delivering a combined 761hp and 1,050Nm of torque, propelling it from 0 to 100kph in a mere 2.8 seconds.
Comparing Taycan Turbo S and GT3 RS: Power-to-Weight Ratio
A critical aspect when assessing the Taycan Turbo S's track performance is the power-to-weight ratio. Weighing in at 2,370kg, a substantial 845kg more than the GT3 RS, the focus shifts to how efficiently the Taycan Turbo S utilizes its power on the track. Both cars, representing opposite ends of Porsche's automotive spectrum, embarked on the challenge of conquering the BIC on the same day, driven by the skilled hands of Narain Karthikeyan.
Narain's Experience: From GT3 RS to Taycan Turbo S
Narain, having achieved a remarkable sub-2-minute lap time in the extreme GT3 RS, found the experience of driving the Taycan Turbo S to be nothing short of revelatory. Despite the electric car's considerable weight, its brutal acceleration took even the seasoned driver by surprise. Notably, the Taycan Turbo S relies significantly on the state of charge of its battery for optimal performance, setting it apart from the quick refueling capability of the GT3 RS.
Track Performance and Driving Dynamics
On the track, the Taycan Turbo S demonstrated its engineering brilliance. Narain, impressed by the car's fantastic steering and precise handling, emphasized the positive impact of the heavy 93.4kWh battery pack on achieving a low center of gravity. This characteristic, in turn, facilitated smooth navigation through fast transitions on the track. The Taycan Turbo S reached comparable top speeds to the GT3 RS but showcased a faster acceleration on straight stretches.
Narain's Verdict: The Fun Factor of Performance EVs
After completing laps with both cars, Narain shared his enjoyment of driving the Taycan Turbo S, praising its fun factor. He commended Porsche's engineering prowess, stating that electric vehicles (EVs) like the Taycan Turbo S have a bright future in the realm of high-performance driving, challenging preconceived notions about the excitement of driving electric.
Porsche's Dominance: ICE and EV Records
Porsche's achievement in securing both the fastest lap record for Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and Electric Vehicle (EV) highlights its undisputed dominance on the track. Whether it's a traditional gas-powered car or an electric powerhouse, Porsche stands as the pinnacle of speed. As records continue to be broken, it wouldn't be surprising if the next record-breaking moment features yet another Porsche, reaffirming the brand's commitment to pushing the boundaries of high-performance driving.
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