Porsche has recently unveiled its latest addition to the electric vehicle market: the Macan Electric. Set to hit the U.S. market in the second half of 2024, this compact SUV offers a blend of affordability and practicality that sets it apart from its predecessor, the Porsche Taycan.
Pricing
The Macan Electric comes in two versions: the Macan 4 Electric and the Macan Turbo Electric. Both models boast a 100 kWh battery and an all-wheel-drive powertrain featuring dual motors.
The entry-level Macan 4 Electric starts at an MSRP of $78,800 (plus a $1,650 destination charge). For those seeking a bit more speed, the Macan Turbo Electric is available for an additional $26,500, starting at $105,300.
Prices
It’s important to note that the Macan is produced in Germany at the Porsche Plant Leipzig and is imported to the U.S., making it ineligible for the $7,500 federal tax credit. However, individuals who lease the Macan may still be eligible for the incentive.
Specs
The Porsche Macan is built on the Volkswagen Group’s Premium Platform Electric (PPE) platform. The first two versions feature a 100 kWh battery pack with 95 kWh of usable capacity.
According to reports, the Macan’s batteries are supplied by CATL, the world’s largest EV battery manufacturer, though specific details about the battery model are not available. Porsche claims that the European WLTP range rating for the Macan is between 321-381 miles, with the higher values attributed to the base version equipped with standard 20-inch wheels.
It’s worth noting that WLTP range figures are generally more optimistic than EPA estimates. We anticipate an EPA Combined range of around 300 miles for the base model once Porsche releases official numbers.
Charging
The Macan features an “800-volt” battery architecture, allowing it to be split into two separate 400-volt units. This design helps mitigate issues associated with DC fast charging at low-power chargers.
At 800-volt class DC fast chargers, the Macan can recharge at up to 270 kilowatts, providing a 10 to 80% state-of-charge (SOC) replenishment in just 21 minutes. Considering the 95 kWh usable energy content, the average charging power is about 190 kW.
At 400-volt class DC fast chargers, the charging power is reduced to 135 kilowatts, and the 10 to 80% SOC charging time increases to 33 minutes. This equates to an average charging power of nearly 121 kW.
The Macan comes with a 9.6 kW onboard charger in the U.S., which allows for convenient overnight charging. In Europe, standard three-phase 11 kW units are available.
While Porsche does not provide detailed information about the charging port, we assume that the initial North American models will be equipped with a CCS1 inlet, with later models likely transitioning to the NACS port.
Additionally, the Macan comes with one year of free DC fast charging (30-minute sessions) at the Electrify America network, owned by the Volkswagen Group.
Powertrain
The base Macan 4 Electric is equipped with two electric motors, delivering a total system output of up to 300 kW (402 hp) in Overboost Power mode with Launch Control. In normal mode, the motors generate 285 kW (382 hp) with up to 479 lb-ft of torque. This power allows the Macan to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds, with a top speed of 136 mph.
The Macan Turbo Electric boasts even more power and torque, offering 470 kW (630 hp) in Overboost Power mode with Launch Control (430 kW, or 576 hp, normally) and 833 lb-ft of torque. With these impressive figures, the Macan Turbo Electric can reach 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds, with a top speed of 161 mph.
Porsche also highlights the Macan’s regenerative braking system, which can accept up to 240 kW of power from the electric motors during recuperation. Both electric motors in the Macan are permanently excited PSM electric motors.
Basic specs
When comparing the two versions side by side, the Turbo model is approximately a third more expensive, marginally heavier (2.8%), and significantly quicker, with a noticeably higher top speed. EPA range ratings for both models are currently unavailable.
FAQs
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Q: When will the Porsche Macan Electric be available in the U.S.?
- A: The Macan Electric is expected to arrive in the U.S. during the second half of 2024.
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Q: What is the starting price for the Porsche Macan 4 Electric?
- A: The entry-level Macan 4 Electric starts at an MSRP of $78,800 (plus a $1,650 destination charge).
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Q: What is the estimated range of the Porsche Macan Electric?
- A: Porsche claims a European WLTP range rating of between 321-381 miles, with the higher values associated with the base version. EPA range estimates are not yet available.
Conclusion
The 2024 Porsche Macan Electric offers an enticing blend of affordability, performance, and electric capability. With sleek styling, impressive range estimates, and fast charging capabilities, the Macan Electric aims to capture a larger portion of the market than its predecessor, the Taycan. As Porsche expands its electric vehicle lineup, the Macan Electric is sure to be a compelling choice for those seeking a practical yet thrilling electric SUV.