André Lotterer teamed up with new Porsche works driver Pascal Wehrlein to take the podium.

Martin Füchtner takes over the role of Technical Project Leader Formula E.

Extensive improvements have been made to the powertrain of the Porsche 99X Electric.

Shanghai/Stuttgart. The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship enjoys a novel start to the new season: In Diriyah (Saudi Arabia), two night races will be contested on 26/27 February for the first time in the history of the innovative electric racing series. The TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team travels to the season-opening doubleheader event with fond memories. In November 2019, the squad celebrated a successful Formula E debut on the street circuit not far from Riyadh, with André Lotterer scoring second place with the Porsche 99X Electric. His new teammate, Pascal Wehrlein, contests his maiden race as a Porsche works driver in Diriyah. The Formula E season was originally scheduled to start in Santiago de Chile in January, however it was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic and relocated to Saudi Arabia.

Porsche tackles its second season with a very clear commitment to Formula E. The sports car manufacturer uses the fully electric single-seater sport for systematic development work and to expand its expertise in the field of battery-electric drives. After the successful debut season of the Porsche 99X Electric, the engineers at Weissach have made extensive improvements to the powertrain. The team has also been restructured: Martin Füchtner takes over the role of Technical Project Leader Formula E. Malte Huneke, who held this position since the launch of the Porsche Formula E programme, is now responsible for the overall vehicle development of all Porsche Motorsport racing vehicles.

With twelve teams and 24 drivers, the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship boasts another strong line-up in season 7. Ten automobile manufacturers are represented – more than in any other international motor racing series.

A for the Diriyah E-Prix

Amiel Lindesay, Head of Operations Formula E

Waiting for the season to get underway was a real test of patience. Are you and your team excited to start in Diriyah?

“We can hardly wait to finally get racing again after the long break. The start of a new season is always exciting, especially for us. This time, we’re much better prepared and we’re also starting with higher expectations compared to last season. Because of the pandemic, the season was very short. For us as a rookie team, that proved to be a major handicap because we didn’t get the critical track experience due to the cancelled races. Now we’re all hoping for a full and, for us, successful 2021 season.”

How difficult has it been to maintain motivation within the team over the last months – and how important is a successful start to the season?

“That was quite a challenge. We’re a racing team and we want to race. The lockdown had a profound impact – despite all the virtual opportunities that we could utilise for the further development of the Porsche 99X Electric. Then came the cancellation of the season-opening round in Chile. However, we’re used to reacting quickly to new developments. Flexibility is part of our everyday life. We’ve always had the team spirit and solidarity, so we’re heading into the 2021 year feeling highly motivated. Obviously, a successful start to the season would help. However, it’s much more important to start with a perfectly prepared car and to always give 100 percent. We’ve been working on this over the past few months. Everything else will then fall into place.”

What is different now compared to when you started Formula E a year ago, and what are your goals for the second season?

“Our rookie season was a rollercoaster. We simply lacked the consistency you need to be among the frontrunners at the end. But that’s pretty normal in the first year. Now we have to take the next step. Taking the experiences from our debut season, we can now focus on our track performance and on making our car faster. If we can achieve this, we’ll also achieve our goals: We want to win races and be world champions.”

André Lotterer, Porsche works driver (#36)

You started your first Formula E season with Porsche with second place in Diriyah. What’s the big challenge for you this time?

“Formula E is a really difficult championship. To be successful, everything has to come together. You have to qualify as far up the field as possible, get through the race without any problems and have a good strategy when it comes to energy management. And you also need a well-balanced car. The big challenge for us will be to be well prepared for every eventuality so that we can respond quickly if something doesn’t go according to plan. That’s the key to success. We grew together as a team with these challenges and we’ve taken major development steps compared to last season. But now we have to implement them, especially in critical situations.”

Has this also changed the goals for the season?

“Of all the teams, we’re facing the steepest learning curve. Expect a good performance. We learned a lot during our debut season. During our test drives, as well, we saw that our engineers did a great job in developing the Porsche 99X Electric. So, yes, this has changed our objectives. In our first season, our goal was to finish on the podium, and we achieved that. Now we want to win. Obviously, this increases the pressure, but I’m sure we can handle it.”

You suddenly had a lot of free time after the cancellation of the season-opener in Santiago de Chile. How did you use it?

“That was an unexpected change of plan, but I quickly adapted to the new situation. I improved my sports programme and added other disciplines: for instance, I took up kick boxing. And I also spent time in the simulator.”

Pascal Wehrlein, Porsche works driver (#99)

For you, the break from racing was particularly long. Are you looking forward to the start of the season?

“I can’t wait. The break was extremely long for me. My last race was almost a year ago in Marrakesh. Of course, we tested in between and made good progress, but that doesn’t replace racing. Everyone in the team is eager to use what we learned from the tests in the race. I’m hoping for a successful start to the season in Diriyah and for the rest of the season to go as planned.”

You contest your first race for Porsche in Diriyah. Is that something special for you, and what’s possible this season?

“It’s definitely something special. After all, Porsche is one of the most successful automobile manufacturers in motorsport. For me, it’s a great honour and a great motivation to be part of the Porsche Motorsport family. I’m pretty familiar with Formula E and I know what’s important in this racing series. We tested extensively to prepare for the new season and we’re well equipped for the challenges that lie ahead. We have everything it takes to win races – and that’s precisely our goal.”

Are night races particularly challenging?

“I really enjoy driving at night. The atmosphere is very special. Everything seems a lot faster. The track will be brightly lit. Still, as a driver, you have to really concentrate because you have a smaller field of vision and it’s harder to spot the reference points. At least we won’t be blinded by the sun.”

The racetrack

The Diriyah E-Prix is contested on a 2.494-kilometre street circuit featuring 21 corners, which runs past old fortifications and traditional houses made of clay. “It’s a real driver’s track, very demanding,” says André Lotterer, who is particularly pleased that there are not as many 90-degree bends and hairpins as there are on most other Formula E circuits. “In the first 14 corners you go only left, right, uphill, downhill, fast, slow. As a driver, you don’t have the time to check your energy use. Only after turn 14 can you look at the steering wheel.” And the main issues? “The difficulty is to set up your car so that it runs well in different situations. It’s also tricky to find a good rhythm. And the wind blows sand from the desert onto the track, which can make it very slippery.”

The Media Service

The first photos from Diriyah will be available on the Porsche press database on 25 February. Race reports will follow on 26 February (race 1) and 27 February (race 2). Further information about the TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team will be posted live on the Twitter channel @PorscheFormulaE. All relevant information about the team, the drivers and the racing series can be found in the Porsche Formula E Media Guide.

The Media Guide

As a supplement and expansion of its classic media guide, the TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team now presents interesting content on Porsche’s involvement in Formula E that offers excellent added value to the media. Initially, the focus is on the Porsche 99X Electric, with which Porsche tackles its second Formula E season in Diriyah. In a 3D animation, users can click on various details of the fully-electric racing car, such as the powertrain, brakes or steering wheel. Martin Füchtner, Technical Project Leader Formula E, shares information in explanatory videos. The media guide can be accessed via https://media.porsche.com/formula-e. The content will be regularly updated over the course of the season and expanded with additional interactive material.

The partners

With 16 partners, the TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team again heads into its second season with an extraordinary partner portfolio. Eight are represented on the Porsche 99X Electric as on-car partners. TAG Heuer is at the forefront as the title and timing partner. Porsche and the Swiss manufacturer of luxury watches can look back on many successful collaborations in motor racing. The simulation software specialist ANSYS is the technology partner. Vodafone joins the team as the official communications partner. In addition to its role as title sponsor of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, the Swiss energy and automation technology group ABB appears on the Porsche racing vehicles. With its Mobil brand, ExxonMobil was closely involved in the development of the Porsche 99X Electric as a technology partner. The fashion company Hugo Boss is the global clothing partner of Porsche Motorsport and the team’s outfitter. As a technical partner for fireproof racing overalls as well as shoes and luggage, the squad is equipped by the sports lifestyle company Puma. The tyre manufacturer Michelin, a long-standing partner of Porsche Motorsport, is also involved in Formula E. Other partners of the TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team are TRILUX (lights), C. A. VELTINS (brewery), Humbel Gear Technology (gear technology), Kärcher (cleaning technology), Hazet (tool supplier), Red Bull (energy drinks), Stilo (helmets) and SACRED Coffee (coffee and tea).

The Porsche 99X Electric

Campaigning the Porsche 99X Electric, Porsche returned to open-wheel single-seater racing after more than 30 years and celebrated a successful debut scoring second place at the season-opener in Saudi Arabia’s Diriyah. The fully-electric racing car sporting the Weissach-developed Porsche E Performance Powertrain also serves as a development platform for the sports car manufacturer’s fully-electric production models. Hence, the 800-Volt technology which Porsche utilises in Formula E is also found in the Taycan as the first fully-electric production sports car from Porsche. Energy management and efficiency are important factors of success in Formula E and in the development of production cars. The 99X Electric has a maximum output of 250 kW (340 PS) in qualification mode and 200 kW (270 PS) in normal race mode. Attack Mode boosts the output to 235 kW (320 PS), with Fanboost increasing the performance to 250 kW (340 PS). Maximum recuperation is 250 kW; the usable battery capacity is 52 Kilowatt hours.

Formula E

Formula E is the world’s first fully-electric road racing series bringing thrilling motorsport to people living in major cities. As an accelerator for innovative and sustainable technologies of mobility, it promotes the worldwide acceptance of electric vehicles with the aim to counteract climate change. The format is compact: practice, qualifying and race all take place on one day. Each race is contested over 45 minutes plus one lap. Formula E, which features a team and driver world championship for the first time this year, has attracted more automobile manufacturers than any other racing series. This makes for interesting and hotly contested races. The TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team tackles its second season running the Porsche 99X Electric in 2021.

2021 races*

Eight races make up the provisional calendar of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship for the first half of 2021.

Race 1 – 26th February: Diriyah (Saudi Arabia)

Race 2 – 27th February: Diriyah (Saudi Arabia)

Race 3 – 10th April: Rome (Italy)

Race 4 – 24th April: Valencia (Spain)

Race 5 – 8th May: Monaco (Monaco)

Race 6 – 22nd May: Marrakesh (Morocco)

Race 7 – 5th June: Santiago de Chile (Chile)

Race 8 – 6th June: Santiago de Chile (Chile)

The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship will announce the remaining 2021 race dates in spring.

* Subject to changes

·The digital world premiere will take place on 4 March, with the Chinese subtitled version becoming available via Porsche Newsroom on 5 March at 9 a.m.

Shanghai/Stuttgart. Porsche’s first all-electric Cross Utility Vehicle, the Taycan Cross Turismo, is currently completing its last test drives. The extensive Porsche testing programme has taken place on race tracks, testing grounds and diversified roads around the world – including the Nürburgring Nordschleife and the Grand Prix track in Hockenheim (both in Germany), the southern Italian town of Nardò, the beaten track in the south of France and in the Pyrenees, as well as the testing grounds at the Weissach Development Centre with the so-called Safari track offering a further off-road challenge. With a total of 998,361 testing kilometres, the Cross Turismo prototypes have circumnavigated the globe almost 25 times – measured at the equator.

Extensive testing is also carried out in the laboratory and on test rigs, and includes development and validation of the aerodynamic design. The Cross Turismo thus braved the storm in the wind tunnel for around 325 hours. The Taycan sports saloon had already spent 1,500 hours there during the development process.

At Porsche, electric cars have to undergo the same rigorous testing programme as sports cars with combustion engines. In addition to displaying superior performance, this always includes proving unrestricted everyday usability in all climatic conditions. Particularly demanding tasks such as charging the battery, or controlling the temperatures of the powertrain and interior under extreme temperatures, are additional aspects that are tested in the battery-powered electric models. Other development goals typical for Porsche include race track performance, the ability to perform repeated acceleration runs at full throttle, and a range suitable for everyday use.

The new derivative features all the strengths of the Taycan sports saloon such as superior performance and long range. The chassis with all-wheel drive and air suspension is height-adjustable. There is also significantly more headroom for the passengers in the rear (thanks to the standard fixed Panoramic Roof) and a large load capacity under the tailgate. The package and space conditions have been optimised down to the very last detail. The mock-up, a faithful, physical representation of the interior, and the package function model alone took 650 design, electronic and coordination hours and 1,500 workshop hours to complete.

“When developing the Cross Turismo, we were of course able to build on our experience with the Taycan sports saloon. The biggest challenge was combining the requirements of sportiness with off-road capabilities,” emphasises Vice President Model Line, Stefan Weckbach: “The Cross Turismo has to be capable of high performance on the race track and must also be able to handle scree, mud and gravel.” The latter conditions were simulated on the “Endurance Testing Ground” at the Development Centre in Weissach. Weckbach: “The result is impressive. However, the Cross Turismo is not a hardcore off-road vehicle, but specialises in unpaved and dirt roads. It’s like a type of Swiss army knife on up to 21-inch wheels.”

The new Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo expands the model family

Porsche has made a successful start into the all-electric age: more than 20,000 Taycan sports saloons were delivered to customers in 2020. The electric sports car has also received more than 50 international awards – above all in its principal markets Germany, USA, UK and China. The new rear-wheel drive Taycan also holds the Guinness World Record™ for the longest drift with an electric car: it drove sideways non-stop for exactly 42.171 kilometres.

The digital world premiere of the first electric Cross Utility Vehicle will take place on 4 March at 11 p.m. (Beijing time) on newstv.porsche.com, with the Chinese subtitled version becoming available via Porsche Newsroom on 5 March at 9 a.m. (Beijing time).

On a chilly winter’s day on the empty rural roads east of Weissach, the head of the Taycan model line, Stefan Weckbach, is putting a very special new car through its paces. A lightly camouflaged Taycan Cross Turismo cuts an unfamiliar figure against the frozen farmland and snow-covered forests that fringe this popular test route, its long roofline and increased ride height last seen on the Mission E Cross Turismo Concept back in 2018.

Weckbach, dressed warmly against the freezing February temperatures, climbs aboard the all-black development car and heads out onto empty asphalt. Immediately there’s a familiarity to the way he talks and drives that suggests many hundreds of kilometres have already been shared between man and machine on these well-trodden local roads.

“With the Taycan Cross Turismo, we wanted to offer a little bit more space, a little more flexibility and versatility,” he says from behind the wheel. “We developed a completely new roofline, fitted with roof rails, a more generous second row and bigger trunk, all to make a car that is perfect for an active lifestyle. A car that is perfect for both an urban environment and the countryside.”

The Cross Turismo glides around sweeping bends as its commander in chief talks freely about what has, up until now, been a closely guarded secret beyond the walls of Weissach and the Taycan production line in Zuffenhausen. “In order to enable it to handle light off-roading and gravel roads,” Weckbach continues, “we increased the ground clearance. And we optimised our suspension system so the Cross Turismo comes with a CUV (cross utility vehicle) specific driving mode. This makes sure it does well on gravel roads in terms of stability, performance, and dynamics.”

The Taycan has already enjoyed a remarkable beginning, with more than 20,000 units delivered worldwide in its first full year of production. Now, the appeal of Porsche’s first all-electric sports saloon is set to grow still further, reaching a new set of customers who want to take their low-impact lifestyle off the beaten track.

· By using the artificial intelligence, the recommendations are more than 90 percent accurate.

· Porsche has taken particular care to ensure data protection and anonymisation, users’ privacy remains protected at all times.

Shanghai/Stuttgart. Intelligent support in real time: Porsche is equipping its Car Configurator with a new advisory function that draws on artificial intelligence. Thanks to the so-called ‘Recommendation Engine’, users receive suggestions for individual vehicle options during the configuration process. The AI determines the suitable options from millions of possible combinations within a fraction of a second. Each recommendation is unique and tailored to the respective customer.

The ‘Recommendation Engine’ is based on several million data points from the Car Configurator. To implement it, more than 270 machine learning models were trained for specific markets and derivatives – so-called neural networks. These use algorithms to find specific patterns in the data, making it possible to predict options to provide the greatest possible benefit for each individual customer based on their own choices. As a result, the recommendations are more than 90 percent accurate – meaning there is on average a 90 percent likelihood that a suggested feature will match a customer's interest. And because the ‘Recommendation Engine’ is self-optimising based on new data, this rate actually improves over time.

“By using artificial intelligence in the Porsche Car Configurator, we’re making the configuration process easier for our customers,” says Axel Berger, Project Manager in the Advanced Analytics and Smart Data department at Porsche. “We’re using this technology to create a truly personalized online experience where we display relevant equipment options – no two users receive the same recommendations.” Porsche has taken particular care to ensure data protection and anonymisation, so users’ privacy remains protected at all times.

Customers in six markets can currently take advantage of this offer: in Germany, China, USA, Great Britain, Switzerland and Taiwan; others will follow. They can access the virtual consultation via the ‘Recommendation Engine’ by clicking on a light bulb icon at the bottom of the page. As part of its digitalisation strategy, Porsche is using AI in a way that is clearly geared towards customer benefit, pursuing the goal of inspiring customers by extending its unique product and brand experience to the online sphere.

Under the COVID-19 pandemic, Porsche China quickly adopted flexible response measures through digital resource integration, demonstrating outstanding corporate responsibility and employer leadership.

Porsche China continues to provide increasingly better working environments with added competitive advantages and more opportunities for development.

Shanghai. On 25 January, the globally authoritative organisation Top Employers Institute officially announced that Porsche China has been recognised as a “Top Employer 2021 in China”, honouring the company's outstanding human resources policies and people practices. This is the second time that Porsche China has won this award after obtaining the “Top Employer 2020 in China” certification last year.

Dr.-Ing. Jens Puttfarcken, President and CEO of Porsche China, said: “It is a great honor to be recognised by the Top Employers Institute. For many years, Porsche China has upheld our “people-oriented” philosophy and we have always regarded talent as the foundation block and motivation for our business operations. The continuous success of Porsche China is inseparable from the efforts and coordination of all employees. With our future-proof sustainability strategy, we will provide Chinese employees with an ever more competitive workplace and richer development opportunities.

The “Top Employer 2021” certification was issued by the global authority Top Employers Institute. Established more than 30 years ago, Top Employers Institute has certified over 1600 organisations in 120 countries and regions. These certified Top Employers positively impact the lives of over 7 million employees globally. “Despite the challenging year we have experienced, Porsche China has continued to demonstrate the power of putting their people first in the workplace. Congratulations to Porsche China for being certified as the Top Employer again.” said Top Employers Institute CEO David Plink.

Facing the COVID-19 epidemic in 2020, Porsche China has achieved improvements in talent development, employee welfare and skills training through a variety of innovative and flexible methods and channels. Porsche China quickly constructed an inter-departmental team in order to actively adopt prevention and control measures and to respond flexibly to the challenges and difficulties the year brought. Through multi-channel information research and demand analysis, a remote working scheme was launched in 2020 that each employee is able to apply for in order to work remotely one day a week, to improve work efficiency during the pandemic and balance employees' lives and work. At the same time, Porsche China has further improved the content of commercial health insurance, and always put the life, health and safety of employees first, demonstrating the corporate leadership and social responsibility of an outstanding employer. In order to implement the sustainability strategy, Porsche China digitalised the training management process this year to empower the digital upgrade of human resource management.

Despite the huge challenge and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Porsche China has maintained its steady development in the past year. In 2020, Porsche delivered 88,968 new cars to Chinese customers, ensuring that China remains Porsche‘s largest single global market. The number of sales sites and employees has grown steadily. In addition, the new headquarters established in Pudong, Shanghai has won the Automotive Brand Contest Award, the Red Dot Award, and the WELL Certification at the gold level with its design concept S.P.A.C.E last year, which stands as a strong recognition of Porsche China in enhancing employee welfare and building an excellent working environment.

2021 marks the 20th anniversary of Porsche's entry into China’s Mainland. Years of continuous hard work have enabled Porsche China to achieve substantial and stable development in corporate culture, talent strategy and human resource management. In the context of the digitalisation in the automotive industry, Porsche China launched the "Talent 2025 Program" in 2019, which aims to implement a five-year training plan for high-potential talents through development modules that strengthen leadership and project practice capabilities. The project will be further optimised in 2021, to define clearer leadership goals for employees, and to cultivate and deliver more comprehensive future leaders or succession candidates for business development. In the future, Porsche China will adhere to the “people-oriented” talent management philosophy, to provide all employees in China with better work experience and to help build future-oriented work skills by utilising more efficient management approaches. Porsche China will continuously promote the collaborative development and progress of enterprises and talents, and work together to open a new chapter.

Deliveries of Porsche are rebounding steadily, with eye-catching performance in Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East region with China market

In 2020, Porsche delivered 88,968 vehicles to Chinese customers with an increase of 3% year-on-year

Sales of the iconic 911 and mid-engine sports car 718 soar in China

Shanghai/Stuttgart. Despite the huge challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic, Porsche delivered a total of 272,162 new vehicles worldwide last year, just three percent below a record 2019. In this respect, the sports car manufacturer benefits from its strong global positioning. Especially positive were the markets in Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East region with China as the biggest single market were Porsche actually increased the number of vehicles handed over to customers in 2020 compared with the previous year.

“The corona crisis posed a great challenge from spring 2020 onwards. Nevertheless, we were able to keep deliveries comparatively stable for the year as a whole,” says Detlev von Platen, Member of the Executive Board for Sales and Marketing at Porsche AG. “Our fresh, attractive product range, the successful start of the Taycan as the first all-electric Porsche and the charisma of our brand – all this contributed to this positive result despite the difficult times."

China was one of the first countries in the world to step out of the shadow of the coronavirus and has become the main force driving Porsche's global market performance. In 2020, Porsche delivered 88,968 new cars to Chinese customers with an increase of 3% year-on-year. China remained the largest single global market for Porsche worldwide for the sixth consecutive time. The two-door sports car market in China has been growing rapidly. Since the national launch of the latest generation of the 911 at the end of 2019, deliveries in the past twelve months rose by 70% compared to the prior year, while sales of the 718 mid-engine sports car grew by 50%. It is worth mentioning that since the Taycan has been delivered in China, it has also received positive feedback from customers. The No. 88,888th new car delivered by Porsche in China in 2020 was the Taycan 4S from the Taycan family. Porsche successfully delivered this commemorative all-electric sports car to the owner in a creative way during a recent launch event.

Since the second half of 2020, China’s market demand has quickly recovered and domestic order intake remained at a historically high level as the epidemic began to stabilise. In the fourth quarter, Porsche delivered 26,145 units in China, achieving a strong 16% year-on-year growth, which forcefully propelling the positive growth of Porsche China's annual sales.

More than 20,000 deliveries of the electric sportscar Taycan

In terms of the overall global market, Taycan deliveries totaled 20,015 in 2020 – despite a six-week stop to production just as the new model was ramping up and many markets were planning spring premieres. The Cayenne led demand at 92,860 sales, an increase of one percent compared with the previous year. Two-door sports cars were also very popular. A total of 21,784 vehicles from the 718 model lines found new owners – six percent more than in the previous year. Deliveries of the iconic Porsche 911 totaled 34,328.

Growth in Asia-Pacific

The sports car manufacturer was able to look back on the year positively, particularly in the markets of the Asia-Pacific, Africa and Middle East region, which also continued to develop positively overall, with 121,641 vehicles were delivered in these regions, corresponding to an increase of four percent compared with the same period in the previous year. Additionally, Porsche delivered 80,892 vehicles in Europe and 69,629 in America.

After the robust 2020 result, Porsche is optimistic about further positive developments in 2021. “We are continuing our product offensive – our customers can look forward to it. It will include additional derivatives of the all-electric Taycan and the 911, among others. We are full of optimism and looking forward to 2021, a year that will also be characterized by unique experiences with the Porsche brand,” says Detlev von Platen.

“The new LMDh category allows us to fight for overall victories with a hybrid system at the Le Mans, Daytona and Sebring classics – without breaking the bank. The project is extremely attractive for Porsche. Endurance racing is part of our brand’s DNA,” explains Oliver Blume, CEO at Porsche AG.

For the first time in more than 20 years, it will be possible to fight for overall victories with identical vehicles at endurance races around the world. Moreover, the new LMDh category focuses on high cost-efficiency. The cars are based on an upgraded LMP2chassis, and the spec for the hybrid system including the control electronics is standardized. Chassis from four different manufacturers are available. Each brand is free to select the concept for the combustion engine and the body design within the framework of the regulations.

Michael Steiner, Board Member for Research and Development at Porsche AG, adds: “In the medium term, Porsche focuses on three different drive concepts: fully electric vehicles, efficient plug-in hybrids and emotional combustion engines. We want to represent this trilogy in both the development of our cutting-edge road cars and in motorsport. We use the all-electric drive to contest the FIA Formula E as part of our works commitment, and the highly efficient and emotional combustion unit in GT racing. Now, the LMDh class closes the gap for us. There, powerful hybrid drives– like the ones that are mounted in many of our brand’s models – go up against each other. If the regulations eventually allowed the use of synthetic fuels, then that would be an even greater incentive for me in terms of sustainability.”

“I’d like to thank our board of directors for the immense confidence they have in the motorsport strategy we’ve developed,” explains Fritz Enzinger, Vice President Motorsport. “We hold a record with our 19 outright wins at the 24 Hours of Le Man sand we’ve climbed to the top podium step many times at major races in the USA. We can continue this tradition with an LMDh vehicle while at the same time keeping costs reasonable. There has been huge interest from other manufacturers. I hope we can pick up where we left off with the famous clashes against many other marques in the eighties and nineties. That would give the entire motor racing scene a huge boost.”

High-performance hybrid drives have enjoyed a long and extremely successful tradition at Porsche Motorsport. In 2010 and 2011, the revolutionary Porsche 911 GT3R Hybrid set new benchmarks at races on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. At that time, there was no other comparable vehicle with a hybrid drive.

Between 2014 and 2017, the sports car manufacturer from Stuttgart underlined its expertise in the field of highly efficient, high-performance hybrid drives with the 919Hybrid. In the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), the LMP1 class prototype achieved a hat trick, winning three times in a row at the Le Mans 24-hour classic.

Porsche also clinched the manufacturers’ and drivers’ championship titles three times straight.

Porsche presented the very first 911 Cup car in 1990. It was based on the 964 generation and headed into its debut season in the German Porsche Carrera Cup with 260 hp. From 1993, it was also raced in the newly established Porsche Supercup, which ran as part of the Formula 1 support programme. Over the next years, five more generations of this exceptionally successful racing vehicle followed – of which to date a record number of 4,251 units have been produced.

“The 911 made history as the baseline model for the Carrera Cups and the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup – no other racing car has found as many satisfied customers since 1990 as the 911,” states Michael Dreiser, Director Sales Porsche Motorsport. “The new 911 GT3 Cup now starts a new chapter. Our goal is to pass the 5,000 mark in production over the coming years. Like its ancestral lineage, this model will also assist a whole new generation of talented racing drivers on their path to professional motorsport and shape the face of our customer sport commitment around the world.”

The groundwork for the latest model was laid in 2018. Concrete development began in early 2019. The main development goals of the team led by project manager Jan Feldmann were to further improve performance, achieve a more aggressive design, easier handling and greater durability with less outlay in terms of time and maintenance. The result is reflected in many aspects of the new racing vehicle, which, like its predecessor, rolls off the production line in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen alongside the 911 production models.

“We wanted to position the new 911 GT3 Cup even more as a professional racing car, while also making it more cost-effective for the teams to run,” explains Feldmann. “We were particularly successful in achieving this thanks to its striking appearance, the improved suspension and intelligent solutions for electrical details. The handling of the new 911 GT3 Cup is noticeably more precise and even more fun. With its improved performance and the optimised cockpit, it’s the best Cup car that Porsche has ever built.”

One of the most striking features of the new 911 GT3 Cup is its optimised aerodynamics and the overall more muscular appearance – it looks even more impressive at first glance. This is partly thanks to the wide turbo-spec lightweight body that is being used for the first time in the Cup car. Measuring a total of 1,902 millimetres in width, it exceeds the rear width of the previous model by 28 millimetres and is distinguished by its additional cooling air inlets in front of the wheels. Furthermore, the front axle of the 992 generation of the 911 is also significantly broader. Thanks to additional flared fenders, the new 911 GT3 Cup now measures as much as 1,920 millimetres at the front axle. This opens the door for a harmonious wheel-tyre combination with 12-inch wide rims on the front and 13-inch wheels at the rear axle. This is typical for GT racing and has a positive effect on the handling and driveability of the racing car.

At the same time, the seventh generation of the Cup racer generates noticeably more aerodynamic downforce. This is thanks to the combination of the rear spoiler with the larger rear wing and front apron, which was specifically adapted to racing by means of a front lip spoiler and strategically-positioned separation edges. The eleven-stage adjustable rear wing with a ‘swan neck’ mounting ensures uninterrupted under-wing airflow. This improved aerodynamic efficiency also ensures more stable handling, especially in fast corners.

The body of the 991.2 generation Cup car consisted of 30 per cent aluminium. The ratio in the successor has been switched. The fact that the vehicle still weighs around 35 kilograms more with a dry weight of 1,260 kilograms is due, for example, to extra struts being added to the steel safety cell. The removable escape hatch in the roof complies with the latest FIA standards. All windows in the GT3 Cup are made of lightweight polycarbonate and have scratch-resistant hard-coat glazing. The doors, engine hood and rear wing are made of carbon-fibre reinforced plastic. In contrast, the front hood with its distinctive exit-air duct and central air intake is a prime example of the intelligent use of materials: Like in the 911 Carrera, it is made of aluminium – which lowers repair costs in the case of an accident.

The designers put a lot of thought into the ergonomics specifically for the drivers. In addition to the incline, the new racing seat can now be adjusted in two height settings. In conjunction with the adjustable steering column, this ensures an ideal fit for every driver stature. A range of padding thicknesses allows the seats to be adapted to the needs of individual drivers. The redesigned, open-top, motorsport multifunction steering wheel made of carbon-fibre is yet another development adopted from the 911 GT3 R. Following drivers’ feedback, its illuminated buttons have been rearranged. The so-called Rubber Switch Panel (RSP) with its ten large buttons on the right is reminiscent of a control element in the Porsche 919 Hybrid. These buttons are easy to use, even in the heat of the race and are given designated central functions such as lighting and ventilation or to change tyre settings from dry to wet tyres. One example of a clever enhancement to details is the adjustment of brake balance: Now, it can be intuitively controlled via a rotary knob switch on the outside right of the RSP in or against the direction of travel – depending on whether the front axle needs more or less brake pressure.

The designers have revamped the centrally-positioned, 10.3-inch colour monitor. The screen prioritises the display of key data and information for the driver while racing. Displayed alongside the engine revs are water and oil temperatures, the gear currently engaged and error messages or information on important baseline settings, such as “wet” for racing in rain. After the readout of the data, the design of both the display and the computer monitors are aligned so that the driver and race engineer see the same information. This helps with analyses after each session.

The electronics are designed to be user-friendly for easier error analyses and specific help in problem-solving. Around 700 diagnostic options are available. Specific software summarises all information more clearly and comprehensibly. Optional vehicle functions such as ABS or traction control are already stored in the system. They can be activated via a digital code. In the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup and in most national Carrera Cups, these driving aids are switched off: in these championships, the talent of the drivers alone is what counts.

Another example of subtle, sophisticated solutions in the new 911 GT3 Cup can be seen in the arrangement of the electronic components: Motorsport control units and data loggers have been relocated from the passenger footwell to the right rear compartment. As a result, they no longer hinder the installation of a second seat, for instance when ‘racing taxi drives’ are required.

The suspension of the Cup 911 offers the finest in racing technology. While the rear axle essentially remains unchanged compared to the production model, the front wheels are now controlled by double wishbones and Uniball bearings – like in the 911 RSR, Porsche’s current top racing model. Through this, the dampers are no longer exposed to lateral forces, only axial forces. This ensures more precise turn-in behaviour and gives a better feeling for the front axle. The shock absorbers have also inherited the cutting-edge valve technology from the 919 Hybrid and 911 RSR. Fully electro-mechanical power steering has been introduced into the 911 GT3 Cup for the first time. This means that the hydraulic pump and associated hydraulic lines are no longer needed.

In terms of the engine, the 911 GT3 Cup remains true to the naturally aspirated principle. In the racing version, the four-litre, water-cooled flat-six engine develops 375 kW (510 hp). Its high-revving unit with dry-sump lubrication reaches top performance at 8,400 rpm – up from the previous 7,500 rpm. It redlines at 8,750 rpm with maximum torque of 470 Newton metres at 6,150 rpm. A single throttle butterfly system with two resonance flaps ensures an even more spontaneous response, and in conjunction with the catalytic converter racing exhaust system, produces an awe- inspiring sound. Three different exhaust systems are available to choose from – depending on the racing series, the regulations and the racetrack. Bosch supplies the MS 6.6 electronic engine management system.

Like with its immediate predecessor, the six-cylinder only needs a maintenance check after 100 hours of track time. The engine is connected to the sequential, 72- kilogram six-speed dog-type gearbox via a single-mass flywheel and a three-plate sintered metal racing clutch. Gear changes are made via a paddle shift on the steering wheel, with a “minor inspection” of the gearbox needed after 60 hours of racing – which corresponds to roughly two years in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup. A major overhaul is due after 120 hours of racing. The shift barrel actuator is operated by an electric servo-motor, replacing the previous pneumatic unit. The advantage: even faster gear changes, the option of live diagnoses and a lowered risk of damage, for example in the event of gearshift errors.

The special attention given to detailed improvements is reflected in the 911 GT3 Cup in many other optimisations:

• Every Cup car from Porsche Motorsport is now delivered with a complete accessory kit, which includes, for example, all special tools and wishbone spacers required for track adjustment. Hence, the ex-works 911 GT3 Cup is ready to race without customer teams having to order these parts individually.

• In the new model generation, the water radiators remain directly behind the front apron. This positioning was deliberately retained: the risk of damaging the radiators prevents an overly aggressive driving style. At the same time, the placing of a strut ensures that minor nudges go unpunished.

• Special brake callipers now enable the brake pads to be changed faster.

• The drive shafts of the rear axle now have a special, more durable motor racing design.

• Textile loops have been reintroduced as attachment points for tow ropes. These replace the previously used steel swivel tow hooks.

• A new central nozzle for the fire extinguishing system improves the distribution of the extinguishing agent inside the cockpit.

• The new positioning of the release unit makes it easier for scrutineers to check from the outside whether the fire extinguisher is working correctly.

• Adapted safety quick releases for the inside door openers improve the ergonomics when exiting the cockpit as well as safety in the event of an emergency.

• The onboard electrical system functions without actual plug fuses. This reduces the amount of materials used in the wiring harness and saves weight. The redesign is easier to access thanks to its central positioning.

• Should the engine stall at the start of the race, the hazard warning lights switch on automatically to warn other competitors of the danger.

Technical specifications Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (992) model year 2021

Concept

• Single-seater customer racing car

Weight / Dimensions

• Total weight: ca. 1,260 kg

• Length: 4,585 mm

• Width: 1,920 mm (front axle) / 1,902 mm (rear axle)

• Wheelbase: 2,459 mm

Engine

• Water-cooled six-cylinder boxer rear engine; displacement 3,996 cm3; stroke 81.5 mm; bore 102 mm; ca. 375 kW (510 hp) at 8,400 rpm; max. torque
470 Nm at 6,150 rpm; max. rpm 8,750; four-valve technology; single throttle butterfly system; intake manifold with two resonance flaps; engine control unit Bosch MS 6.6; dry-sump lubrication; single-mass flywheel; race exhaust system with DMSB certified catalytic converter; fuel quality: Superplus unleaded, to E20 (min. 98 octane).

Transmission

• Porsche six-speed sequential dog-type gearbox; paddle shift with electronic shift barrel actuator; mechanical limited slip differential; three-plate sintered metal racing clutch.

Body

• Lightweight body featuring intelligent aluminium-steel composite design; mounting points for lifting device; removable rescue hatch in roof; welded-in roll-cage, approved for co-driver use on circuits; seat in accordance with FIA Standard 8862/2009, infinite longitudinal adjustment, two positions for height and inclination; six-point racing safety harness, for use with HANS®, adjustable steering column with steering angle sensor; front cover with integrated quick-release fasteners, cooler exit-air duct and central air intake for cockpit ventilation; widened front bumper with spoiler lip; fenders with extensions; rear bodywork with integrated rain light in accordance with FIA regulations; doors, rear cover and rear wing of CFRP; rear wing with ‘swan neck’ mounting, adjustable in 11 positions; polycarbonate windows with hard coating; air-jack system with three jacks; valve mounting points on either side of the car; 110-litre FT3 safety fuel cell in the front.

• CFRP interior trim panels, multifunctional CFRP motorsport steering wheel with quick-release coupling, shift paddles and illuminated push buttons; ergonomic digital touch panel with multi-colour backlight; safety nets (centre and driver’s side) in accordance with latest FIA safety regulations; preparation for seat ventilation; fire extinguisher system with electronic release unit.

Suspension

• Forged aluminium control arms & top mounts, stiffness optimised; heavy-duty spherical bearings with dust protection; wheel hubs with centre-lock wheel nut; shock absorbers with motorsport-specific valve characteristic; double-blade- type adjustable anti-roll bars; tyre pressure monitoring system.

Front axle

• Double wishbone front suspension, adjustable ride-height, camber and toe;

• Electro-mechanical power steering with manoeuvring function.

Rear axle

• Multi-link rear suspension, adjustable in ride-height, camber and toe;

• Motor racing drive shafts optimised for reliability and durability.

Brake system

• Two independent brake circuits incorporating front and rear axle brake pressure sensors, driver adjustable brake force distribution via brake balance system; racing brake pads; optimised brake ducts; ergonomic brake pedal positioning.

• Front axle: Six-piston aluminium monobloc racing brake callipers with ‘anti knock-back’ piston springs; ventilated 380 mm x 32 mm steel brake discs mounted on aluminium disc bells; aluminium brake disc chamber.

• Rear axle: Four-piston aluminium monobloc racing brake callipers with ‘anti knock-back’ piston springs; ventilated 380 mm x 32 mm steel brake discs mounted on aluminium disc bells; aluminium brake disc chamber.

Wheels / Tyres

• Front axle: Single-piece centre-lock alloy wheels conforming to Porsche specification and design, 12J x 18; tyre dimension 30/65-18

• Rear axle: Single-piece centre-lock alloy wheels conforming to Porsche specification and design, 13J x 18; tyre dimension 31/71-18.

Electrical system

• Porsche Logger Unit; Porsche Power Box, 10.3 inch Porsche colour display; lightweight, leak-proof LiFePO4 battery 12V, 60 Ah in passenger footwell; 175 A alternator; digital touch panel with multi-colour backlight; single-arm

windscreen wiper with direct drive (intermittent and continuous operation); three additional centre console switches for additional power consumers; data connection (data logger, video system).

• LED main headlights and daytime running lights; taillights and rain light in LED technology.

The “Haru Oni” pilot project in Magallanes Province takes advantage of the excellent wind conditions in southern Chile to produce climate-neutral fuel with the aid of green wind power. As part of Germany’s national hydrogen strategy, to support the project Siemens Energy will get a grant of some 8 million euros from the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, the ministry announced in last week. Additionally, Porsche together with Siemens Energy and the Chilean energy company AME have signed amemorandum of understanding. The objective of this agreement is principally to drive forward the industrial scaling of the first integrated plant for the manufacture of climate-neutral fuel in Chile.

Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG Oliver Blume: “Electromobility is a top priority at Porsche. E-fuels for cars are a worthwhile complement to that – if they’re produced in Chile where a surplus of sustainable energy is available. They are an additional element on the road to decarbonization. Their advantages lie in their ease of application: e-fuels can be used in combustion engines and plug-in hybrids, and can make use of the existing network of filling stations. By using them, we can make a further contribution toward protecting the climate. As a maker of high-performance, efficient engines, we have broad technical expertise. We know exactly what fuel characteristics our engines need in order to operate with minimal impact on the climate. Our involvement in the world’s first commercial, integrated e-fuels plant supports the development of the alternative fuels of the future.”

As the fuel’s main customer, Porsche is planning as a first phase to use the e-fuels from Chile in beacon projects. Those include using the e-fuel in vehicles for Porsche motorsports, at the Porsche Experience Centers and perspectively also in serial production sports cars. The sports car maker will start with an initial investment of roughly 20 million euros.

On the journey to full electric mobility, which Porsche has already embarked on with the Taycan and will continue in the future with the all-electric new Macan, Porsche is relying on a trio of drive systems. In the medium term, this still includes emotive, optimised combustion engines and efficient plug-in hybrids alongside the electric models. E-fuels are not intended to replace electric mobility but be an addition in order for vehicles with combustion engines to be able to operate CO2 neutrally where possible. This is important simply because it will take several decades until the entire worldwide vehicle pool has been converted to purely electric cars. The conversion is also happening at varying speeds in the different regions of the world. The charging infrastructure must also be set up at the same time. In contrast, e-fuels can be used in the existing engines without requiring any adaptation as they comply with current fuel standards, paving the way for reaching its CO2-neutrality goals as soon as possible.

Christian Bruch, CEO von Siemens Energy: “Establishing a sustainable energy economy is going to require some rethinking. Renewable energy will no longer be produced only where it’s needed, but where natural resources like wind and sun are available on a massive scale. So new supply chains are going to arise all over the world to carry renewable energy from one region to another. That’s especially important for Germany, which – bottom-line – has to import energy if it’s going to meet its nationwide demand. Hydrogen will come to play an increasingly important role in storing and transporting energy. Which is why the German government’s support for the project is an important signal.”

Federal Economy Minister Peter Altmaier: “Hydrogen is a key component for successfully carrying out the energy transformation in every sector. That’s why, with the National Hydrogen Strategy, we aim to take advantage of the opportunities that hydrogen offers for the climate, energy and economic policy. We know we won’t be able to cover our national demand out of domestic production alone, and will need international partnerships. So I’m very pleased to see that Porsche and Siemens Energy are developing production capacity in other countries, along with importing structures, for green hydrogen and its daughter products. Thanks to German know-how, for the first time in the world innovation from the laboratory will now be applied in an integrated, commercial plant.”

Siemens Energy is a co-developer of the “Haru Oni” project (also known as HIF project), and is serving as a systems integrator to cover the entire value chain – from power generation using Siemens Gamesa wind turbines, to producing green hydrogen, to conversion into synthetic fuel. The company’s flexible PEM (PEM = Proton Exchange Membrane) electrolysis is ideally suited for using volatile wind power.

AME is the primary developer and owner of the HIF (Highly Innovative Fuels) project company. Enel is a co-funder of the plant, with a focus on wind power and electrolysis. ENAP will support the project by providing operating staff and with maintenance and logistics.

Chile, with its excellent climate conditions for wind power and the associated low cost of electricity, has a very high potential in international terms for producing, exporting and locally using green hydrogen. To generate green hydrogen, electrolyzers use wind power to dissociate water into its two components, oxygen and hydrogen. In a second step, plans call for filtering CO2 out of the air and then combining it with the green hydrogen to form synthetic methanol. The result is renewable methanol, which can be converted into climate-friendly fuel using an MTG (Methanol To Gasoline) technology to be licensed and supported by ExxonMobil.

Michael Steiner: “Porsche and Siemens Energy, with partners, advance climate-neutral e-fuel development”

Michael Steiner, Member of the Executive Board responsible for Research and Development, explained what is e-fuels and the role that Porsche played in the pilot project for making this synthtic climate-neutral fuels.

1. The "e" in e-fuels stands for "electric". What do e-fuels have to do with electric mobility?
Michael Steiner: eFuels are essentially a second sustainable route to electric mobility. Just like in a BEV, renewable electric energy is also used for propulsion by a vehicle with a combustion engine that is powered with eFuels. The difference is that the electric energy in the BEV is stored in the battery in its electrochemical form, whereas in eFuels it is stored as liquid hydrocarbons.

2. What are eFuels and how are they manufactured?
Michael Steiner: eFuels are synthetic liquid fuels produced from hydrogen (H2) and carbon dioxide (CO2), using electricity generated from renewable energies (solar and wind energy). The required hydrogen is extracted from water by electrolysis. CO2 is extracted straight from the air using the Direct Air Capturing procedure. What is known as e-methanol is produced from hydrogen and CO2 in a first stage. In just one additional synthesis step, e-methanol is further processed to produce e-fuel (e-petrol). This fuel can then be used in all conventional petrol engines. The entire chain is virtually CO2 -neutral as only renewable energy is used for the production of e-fuels and the quantity of CO2 generated when burning the e-fuel in the engine is restricted to the amount previously extracted from the air.

3. What are the benefits of eFuels?
Michael Steiner: If e-fuels are manufactured using only renewable energy, their use can significantly reduce the emissions of fossil CO2 from pure combustion engine cars. Depending on availability, this can initially be achieved by blending e-fuels with conventional fuel, and later also with pure e-fuel. In addition, the existing infrastructure for storage and distribution of the fuel can still be used. Furthermore, the synthetic manufacture of e-fuels makes targeted fuel design possible.

4. Why is Porsche in particular involved in eFuels?
Michael Steiner: On the journey to full electric mobility, which Porsche has already embarked on with the Taycan and will continue in the future with the all-electric new Macan, Porsche is relying on a trio of drive systems. In the medium term, this still includes emotive, optimised combustion engines and efficient plug-in hybrids alongside the electric models. Thanks to eFuels, vehicles that are powered with combustion engines and plug-in hybrids can be almost carbon-neutral, therefore contributing to the reduction of CO2 emissions. eFuels can be used in the existing engines without requiring any adaptation as they comply with current fuel standards. As manufacturers of high-performance and highly efficient engines, we have extensive know-how at our disposal and understand exactly which fuel properties our engines require, which in turn means that we can significantly and actively influence the development of eFuels. That is much better than entrusting their development to third parties and then having to accept the fuel quality on offer.

5. Are eFuels not in competition with electric mobility?
Michael Steiner: Porsche has a clear electrification strategy for its vehicles and, based on the first extraordinarily successful all-electric Taycan, will continue with its strategy on the all-electric vehicle market. E-fuels are not intended to replace electric mobility but be an addition in order for vehicles with combustion engines to be able to operate CO2 neutrally where possible. This is important simply because it will take several decades until the entire worldwide vehicle pool has been converted to purely electric cars. The conversion is also happening at varying speeds in the different regions of the world. The charging infrastructure must also be set up at the same time. In contrast, e-fuels could be used immediately throughout the entire vehicle pool without any restrictions – for example, in all the 911 models, classic and new. The existing infrastructure can be used for transport and distribution. This is why synthetic fuels are a very significant additional lever for immediate decarbonisation of the traffic sector. They underpin the Porsche product strategy ideally, based as it is on further optimised combustion engines, plug-in hybrid models and fully electric sports cars in the short and medium term.

6. Is there enough renewable energy available in Germany to produce the required quantities of eFuels?
Michael Steiner: “Green” electricity will be available in Germany only to a limited extent for quite a while. It should therefore be used to charge fully electric cars like the Taycan as well as plug-in hybrids such as the Cayenne and Panamera E-Hybrid. It should also be used to replace power generated from fossil fuels. In view of the overall efficiency chain and provision of renewable energy, the roundabout route via eFuels does not make sense from the point of view of Germany alone. However, e-fuels become more and more attractive if the electricity used in their production is relocated to areas of the world where the use of every wind, water and solar installation system is significantly higher than would be the case in Germany and where, at the same time, full or partial use of the electric energy is not possible directly.
One example: a wind turbine in the right location – for example, in South America – can supply approximately four times as much energy as electricity generated from wind energy in Germany. It is therefore expedient to relocate the hydrogen production to such regions. The synthesis of the hydrogen and the CO2 from the air into methanol and then to e-fuel, an easily transportable liquid, should then be carried out locally. This is because it is not possible to transport the electricity generated there directly to Germany and to use it in electric cars.
All in all, an overall well-to-wheel efficiency – in other words, from the energy source, the wind turbine in our example, to the wheel of the car – can be realised. This is on a similar scale to that of battery electric vehicles, which are charged up straight from the green electricity generated in Germany.

7. How environmentally friendly are eFuels compared with other alternative fuels from biological sources such as E10 or biodiesel?
Michael Steiner: Biofuels require much more water and, due to their nature, are also restricted in terms of quantity. Nevertheless, they will continue to have a firm share, provided they do not compete with food production or contribute to deforestation. As they are already available today as admixture components, they contribute to achieving climate targets.

8. What do eFuels cost?
Michael Steiner: At the moment, the price for one litre of eFuel is of course much higher than for conventional fossil fuel. But the price will fall if, in future, eFuels are manufactured industrially on a large scale, instead of in small quantities in pilot installations. In the medium term, prices will settle at comparable levels in conjunction with increasing CO2 pricing for fossil fuels. It also reduces the dependence on ever decreasing fossil fuel resources.

9. What is Porsche’s position in relation to fuel cells and hydrogen?
Michael Steiner: We are monitoring fuel cell research very closely even though we are not developing any ourselves. It is a very interesting technology – suitable for heavier long-distance vehicles used for freight transport, for example. However, a fuel cell is not really suitable for our model range – mainly for packaging reasons. But also because the dynamic performance requirements and cooling for sports cars have not yet been satisfactorily met. Furthermore, hydrogen filling stations would require new infrastructure that would mean further investments – on top of the development of the electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Nonetheless, we are looking closely at hydrogen production as it is the basis for one eFuel that can be distributed using the existing service station infrastructure. It can also be used to operate our fully fledged combustion engines as well as our ever increasing range of plug-in hybrids CO2-neutrally. In principle, eFuels are green hydrogen which has been subjected to further processing.

10. But initially, a great deal of energy must be used to manufacture eFuels. Is that sensible or efficient?
Michael Steiner: Up to now, efficiency criteria have dominated the development of technical systems because consumption-driven criteria were the most important when using finite resources – such as petroleum. After all, we were trying to make reserves last as long as possible. But this model is now changing. The transition to renewable and abundant, regionally available energy from wind, sun and water power gives us the chance to prioritise sustainability even more. Pure efficiency must and will include sustainable generation. Increased energy consumption in the overall process chain is quite acceptable if the sustainability balance sheet is positive. Furthermore, increased energy consumption does not necessarily mean more investment, as you can see from the fact that one and the same wind turbine can produce so much more energy, depending on its location – Germany or South America.

11. When will eFuels be available on the market in significant quantities? Is it possible to say when eFuels will completely replace fossil fuels?
Michael Steiner: Significant quantities of the fuel could be available in the EU in as little as 10 years, provided the necessary willingness to invest and a positive political and regulatory environment are available.

12. What is Porsche’s role in this project?
Michael Steiner: Porsche connects the companies along the e-fuels value creation chain and initiates collaboration between companies with complementary expertise. In addition, Porsche contributes its expertise in engine technology. The aim is to ensure the compatibility of e-fuels with combustion engines. Porsche’s expertise in engine technology and its interplay with fuel makes a contribution to the development and specification of e-fuels. The stringent requirements for e-fuels are tested by Porsche on test benches and on the road to ensure that e-fuels meet the high standards of Porsche racing series, among other things.

13. Which partners is Porsche working with in this project and what are their roles?
Michael Steiner: Siemens Energy is the co-developer of the project and, as a system integrator, covers the entire value creation chain – from power generation with Siemens Gamesa wind turbines and the production of green hydrogen to the conversion to synthetic fuel. AME is the principal developer, as well as owner of the project company HIF (Highly Innovative Fuels). Enel is co-financing the plant with a focus on wind energy and electrolysis. ENAP is supporting the project with operating staff as well as maintenance and logistics. The result: green methanol that is converted to environmentally-friendly fuel with the help of MTG (MTG = Methanol to Gasoline) technology licensed by ExxonMobil.

14. Exactly how does the process of converting methanol to a fuel for petrol engines work?
Michael Steiner: Methanol to gasoline (MTG) is a chemical reaction process used to produce petrol from methanol in a synthetic process. The idea is that methanol is fed from above into a tube filled with catalyst material. In the first step, methanol is converted into dimethyl ether in a catalytic process at pressures between 14 and 24 bar and temperatures around 400°C。Following this, either still in the same tube or in a separate tube, the dimethyl ether is converted highly selectively into a petrol fuel using a zeolite catalyst in the same temperature and pressure range. E-fuel can be directly produced with a high degree of selectivity by varying the process conditions and catalyst.

15. Where exactly is this plant in Chile located?
Michael Steiner: The pilot plant is located in the province of Magallanes in Patagonia, the southernmost region of Chile. The nearest large city is Punta Arenas.

16. How much is Porsche investing in this project?
Michael Steiner: Initially, Porsche is investing in the region of 20 million euros in the project.

17. What is the annual capacity of the planned pilot plant? How many litres of methanol can be produced there, and how many litres of finished e-fuel can be made from it?
Michael Steiner: In the pilot phase (2021/22) the plant will be able to produce 600 tonnes or 750,000 litres of e-methanol annually. From this, 130,000 litres of e-fuel can be produced annually. These quantities can significantly increase in the planned subsequent phases. In the pilot phase, this is limited to the mentioned 130,000 litres per year. The capacity can then be increased in two steps: to around 55 million litres of e-fuel per year by 2024 and around 550 million litres of e-fuel per year by 2026.

18. I read in a publication that the plant in Chile can produce 750,000 litres of e-methanol per year. But only 130,000 litres of e-fuel will be produced. How is this justified?
Michael Steiner: In order to produce one litre of e-fuel, around 2.5 litres of e-methanol is required. Theoretically, around 300,000 litres of e-fuel can therefore be produced with the e-methanol produced in Chile. The fact that not all the e-methanol will be converted to e-fuel is due to the capacity of the downstream plant for the methanol to gas (MTG) synthesis. In the pilot phase, this is limited to the mentioned 130,000 litres per year. The capacity can then be increased in two steps: to around 55 million litres of e-fuel per year by 2024 and around 550 million litres of e-fuel per year by 2026.

The development of the new 911 GT3 Cup began in mid-2018 with the definition of the concept: How should the new racing car look and what should it be able to do? What can be improved and what expectations do the customer teams have? “It proved very beneficial to exchange ideas in close cooperation with the racing teams and our international one-make cup organisations – around the world and also outside our own series. We listened carefully to the engineers and mechanics as well as the drivers and team bosses to find out what they like about the current car and what is needed,” states Product Manager Christoph Werner. “By doing this, we got a very accurate picture of the mood and we gathered a great deal of information so that we could set the right priorities for the new, globally-run model. In fact, this also applies to the eventual running of the vehicle in, for example, endurance races or club sport events.”

After a busy year and several hundred newly-designed parts, the “TC01” (Test Car 01) was put on its wheels in mid-2019. “After we’d completed the first bodyshell and all the components at our Motorsport Centre in Flacht, we’d completed the car in a record time of just ten days with the project team,” reports Project Manager Jan Feldmann. “That was an interesting phase. It showed that the project team, which was founded in 2018, works perfectly.”

While the first prototype headed straight to the in-house wind tunnel, a second car was sent out onto the test track at the Weissach R&D Centre. “The car was actually only supposed to cover a couple of kilometres as a shakedown,” Feldmann recalls. “We ended up doing 30 flying laps with racing driver Klaus Bachler at the wheel. The first time he flew past us at full speed, we all got goosebumps. The first shot was a winner. We received some excellent feedback.”

After four more days of testing at Weissach, “TC01” embarked on a European tour: Germany’s Lausitzring was followed by tests on the high-speed circuit of Monza and other international racetracks. “For us, it was important to learn as much as possible on the broadest possible range of circuits with different characteristics,” explains Technical Manager Martijn Meijs. “These experiences were then incorporated into the final stage of development.”

In mid-2020, after several thousand kilometres on the racetrack, “TC01” was joined by a successor: the first pre-production vehicle from Zuffenhausen. “It was produced on the same assembly line as the other 911 at the main facility and was very similar to the final racing version,” said Feldmann. The main task of this test car was to complete long-runs, including on the Grand Prix circuit of the Nürburgring. Joining the Austrian Bachler for the tests were his German colleagues Marco Holzer, Nordschleife record-holder Lars Kern, three-time Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup champion Michael Ammermüller and Porsche brand ambassador Jörg Bergmeister.

“In choosing the drivers, we also wanted a wide range of personalities,” explains Meijs. “They all gave us specific feedback. As engineers, we experience the car through what they say.” Bergmeister’s feedback would have sounded like music to the ears of the project team: “In terms of performance, the new 911 GT3 Cup has taken a giant leap forward – the lap times also underline this,” said the seasoned specialist. “It has once again been improved in all areas – from the engine and suspension to the aerodynamics and brakes right through to the electronics and ergonomics.”

After completing all development tests as well as many hours on component test-benches, the team headed to the Motorsport Arena Oschersleben for the final shakedown. By this stage, the vehicle was identical to the production racer and was again dressed in the same conspicuously inconspicuous camouflage: the psychedelic pattern which mirrored the outline of famous racetracks. Several drivers were once again able to get an in-depth impression of the latest development stage.

The project team also checked something else in Oschersleben: how the teams would handle the new Cup car: “The idea was to simulate an entire race weekend from our customers’ perspective and to use the vehicle as the teams would – including deliberately inciting problems, incorrect operations and damage scenarios,” explains Werner. “In this way, we came across minor issues that we could rectify. At the same time, our technicians for customer service at the racetracks and Marco Seefried as the rookie coach in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup got deeper insights into the functions, operation and handling of the car. That was important to us. We’ve done our utmost to be as prepared as possible for the market launch of the new 911 GT3 Cup.”

“After this extensive field test, we knew that the Cup car is ready for customers to go racing,” emphasises Matthias Scholz, Overall Project Manager for GT Racing Cars. “We returned from Oschersleben feeling completely satisfied.”

“I am delighted to have Mr. Buchwald take charge of Strategy and Business Development of Porsche China. With 18 years of rich and interprofessional work experience, Mr. Buchwald is undoubtedly a valuable asset for Porsche’s Strategy and Business Development,” said Dr. -Ing. Jens Puttfarcken, President and CEO of Porsche China. “Meanwhile, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Hess, for the outstanding contributions he has made for this all new department for Porsche China during his 2-year tenure.”

In the future, Mr. Buchwald will be responsible for organizational development, innovation management, as well as exploring new business opportunities within smart mobility and digital transformation.

Mr. Buchwald has devoted more than 13 years of his professional career to Porsche and has been with the brand since 2007. During this period, he focused on the combination of technology and management, including purchasing, sales & marketing, IT-Systems, business development as well as leadership. Before coming to Porsche, he served as Account Manager technical Sales of Robert Bosch GmbH.

Mr. Buchwald holds an International Masters of Business Administration degree from University of Cooperative Education, Germany.

The Art Healing project is an innovative charity initiative launched by Porsche China in collaboration with related organisations in the context of the global pandemic crisis, which aims to bring spiritual comfort and emotional relief to people in the form of art. In September this year, the Art Healing mini-program launched its online education section and has already provided professional healing guidance to tens of thousands of visitors.

"This exhibition is a continuation of Porsche's Art Healing project, and is also a creative part of Porsche’s CSR programme in the field of art. After this exhibition, we plan to hold a touring exhibition in Wuhan to provide local citizens with a therapeutic space for unloading their emotional stress," said Jojo Tang, Vice President Public Relations and Press for Porsche China. "In addition, the kick-off ceremony signifies our strong commitment to the cultivation of young artistic talent. In the forthcoming programme, Porsche China is honoured to be recognised and affirmed by many of the country’s top-ranking art institutions and industry professionals, and to work with them to build a long-lasting platform for outstanding young artists in China to communicate and showcase their talents."

Moreover, young actress Ms. Li Meng also attended the conference and received an award for her work as an “Advocator of Young Artistic Dreams". Li was present at last year’s awards ceremony, where she witnessed the announcement of the four winning artists, and shared her personal experiences and insights regarding the current state of the art world. In the new biennial selection, Li Meng will continue to support the cultivation and development of young artists as well as further participate in the relevant activities.

Special exhibition offers immersive healing experiences for all walks of life.

Themed “No Man is an Island”, the Porsche Art Healing Exhibition gathered a selection of impressive artworks by artists Liu Jianhua, Ma Haijiao, Lu Pingyuan, Gong Jian and Zheng Da. Their porcelains, videos, sound installations and paintings either focus on their self-reflections during the global pandemic, address social and environmental concerns, explore art’s capacity for healing, or reconsider man’s relationship with nature and the universe.

As a special interactive exhibition, "Temporary Quarantine Houses", an art installation created by young artist Wang Xin, was presented at Shanghai Exhibition Centre, Shanghai L+Mall and TX Huaihai Youth Energy Centre respectively. The giant plush toys inside the installation accompanied visitors in the "isolation" environment, turning the cramped and narrow space into a warm place for a moment of serenity and meditation.

"We are delighted to see the support and participation of so many artists who have, in their own ways, shown us art’s healing power and the social responsibility it carries," said Ms. Kylie Ying, co-founder of ART021 Shanghai Contemporary Art Fair. "As the theme of this exhibition suggests, no man is an island. In the face of challenges and adversity, art has always rallied the collective effort at contributing to the wellbeing of our mind, body and spirit for not only surviving together but also thriving together."

The "Online Exhibition" section in the Art Healing mini-program was also launched on the event day. It broke through geographical constraints and displayed the exquisite art pieces in the virtual world, bringing a stirring and immersive healing experience to a wide range of online participants.

Upgrade of selection mechanism to firmly practice CSR commitments

Following the success of the previous selections, the mechanism for the 2020-2021 Porsche “Young Chinese Artist of the Year” programme was upgraded to include four stages: nomination, group exhibition of the nominees and voting, announcement of winners and the exhibition of new works. Additionally, the selection process has been elevated to a new level with more rigorous and professional nomination criteria based on artistic creation, thematic conception and innovative forms. And the new committee members, who will further support the new Porsche “Young Chinese Artist of the Year” with their authoritative perspectives and expertise.

As one of the core practices of Porsche’s “Empowering the Future” Corporate Social Responsibility programme, the Porsche “Young Chinese Artist of the Year” has always been dedicated to identifying emerging young artists and promoting exchanges within the contemporary art world. Since its inception in 2017, nearly 40 young artists have been nominated, with seven of them being named as the winners of the previous selections thanks to their inspirational personal style of expressiveness and prominent art talent. Previous winners include Wu Junyong, Yao Qingmei, Zhang Ding, Chen Baoyang, Liu Wa, Liu Xinyi and Miao Ying. In the future, Porsche expect to collaborate with more art institutions and industry professionals to improve the cultivation and support of Chinese young artists, as well as promote the development of contemporary art and society in China.

Porsche has integrated sustainability into its corporate development strategy and continues to reduce CO2 emissions across the entire value chain at all levels and across all activities. Over the next five years, Porsche is investing 15 billion euros in new technologies including e-mobility, digitalisation, sustainability and more. By 2025, half of all Porsche cars delivered are expected to be electrically driven models or plug-in hybrid models.

“The Third China International Import Expo is made possible by effective measures taken by the Chinese government against the COVID-19 pandemic, and China is leading the global economic recovery process in the post-pandemic era.” said Dr. -Ing. Jens Puttfarcken, President and CEO of Porsche China. “The rapid recovery of Porsche's business in China strongly supports the continued growth of Porsche worldwide in the face of the pandemic. We wish to showcase our brand culture, products and services, and in particular our innovative commitment to sustainable mobility in virtue of the strong influence of the CIIE”.

The Taycan: a pioneer in electric technology and sustainability

As Porsche’s first purely electric sports car, the Taycan represents the pinnacle of the brand’s electrification development by combining sports car DNA and technological innovation. The new AutomotiveINNOVATIONS report published by the Center of Automotive Management (CAM) shows that 13 of 27 new developments in the Porsche Taycan are world firsts. Innovations in the all-electric Porsche recognised by the scientists at CAM include its 800-volt architecture, two-speed transmission on the rear axle, high recuperative power of up to 265 kW and best cd value in the segment (from 0.22).

Not only is the Taycan second to none in terms of innovation, but it also strives for zero impact in every aspect of its operations. The production of the Taycan with its zero-emission powertrain at the Zuffenhausen site is CO2-neutral; the heat generated in the plant is drawn from renewable sources and bio-gas; “green logistics” have been adopted, using green rail transportation solutions and electric-powered trucks.

“The delivery of the Taycan started from April this year and it has been warmly welcomed by our customers. ” said Dr. -Ing. Jens Puttfarcken. “China is the world's largest market for new energy vehicles, and feedback from Chinese customers has had a profound impact on Porsche’s electrification journey. Three out of every four Taycan customers in China have chosen the Taycan as their point of entry into the Porsche world. “That means, with the Taycan, we are reaching new target groups in China. ” said Dr. -Ing. Jens Puttfarcken.

The 99X Electric race car: exploring more possibilities in electrification technology

Also on display alongside the Taycan, the 99X Electric, Porsche's first all-electric open-wheel race car. Porsche is committed to innovation, and much of the technology in the brand’s production cars have roots in motorsport. Porsche is looking forward to similar synergies in Formula E to draw inspiration for future sports cars. With the 99X Electric, Porsche will further explore the possibilities of electrification technology on the track.

In November 2019, The TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team contested its maiden season in the Formula E Championship in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. In August of this year, the team finished eighth in the team standings with 79 points after the finale in Berlin, marking a successful conclusion to Porsche's first Formula E season.

Porsche Impact: partnering with car owners to offset carbon emissions

Apart from avoiding and reducing CO2 emissions, Porsche strives to compensate for any remaining emissions via an innovative CSR programme – Porsche Impact – providing car owners with an opportunity to offset their carbon emissions.

Using an online calculator, Porsche Impact enables customers to determine the CO2 footprint of their sports car and financially support projects to compensate for their emissions. The available schemes are focused on biodiversity, hydro power, forest protection and wind energy, including the Danjinghe Wind Project, a wind farm based in China’s Hebei province. Porsche Impact has now been rolled out in nearly 20 countries including China. Porsche China joined the programme last year by offsetting the emissions from its internal fleet, which has resulted in a minimum offset contribution of 655 tons of CO2 annually.

China is a vital market for Porsche, not only in terms of its one-third share of global sales, but also because it has increasingly become a powerhouse of innovation that drives Porsche’s sustainable development. “In the future, Porsche China will continue its dedication to the Chinese market to pass on the pure joy and passion of Porsche, and to support the development of China's automobile market and culture in the long run. We hope to work with our Chinese customers to create a zero-carbon future for mobility.” said Dr. -Ing. Jens Puttfarcken.

A perfect success of Kris’s Porsche Sports Cup debut

Versatile musician Kirs Wu made his Porsche Sports Cup debut and showed great potential as a racing driver in his first track performance. On the first day of the Porsche Sprint Challenge timing, he took pole position in the GT4 category with a time of 2:15:520. He also won two consecutive rounds of victories in the Porsche Sprint Challenge GT4 categoryon the second day.

On the track, Kris is a budding driver with rapidly improving skills, while off the track, he is also a Porsche owner. At the Porsche Sprint Challenge - Timing press conference on 31 October, Dr. -Ing. Jens Puttfarcken, President and CEO of Porsche China and Ms. Zhong Lou, Director Customer Relations of Porsche China, presented Kris with an honorary membership of the Porsche Club China.

Family Fun Day for Porsche Fans

In 2018, as part of Porsche's 70th anniversary celebrations, the Porsche Sportscar Together Day was held in successive locations around the world and became a huge success. Since then, Porsche China has hosted the annual carnival at the Shanghai International Circuit for Porsche enthusiasts of all ages to experience a variety of activities. These activities included onsite racing simulators – which earlier this year were used to host part of the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia 2020 Virtual Edition – present in the paddock, providing drivers with a virtual racing experience. The Porsche Kids Driving School was on offer, providing a great way to help children develop their driving talents. In addition, car painting, lego, face painting, darts, Gachapon, musical performances and a magic show were on offer trackside to create a more festive atmosphere.

A number of legendary Porsche car models were also on display, including the 65-year-old Porsche 356 Speedster (1955), the 911 GT1'98 Straβenversion (1998) – a globally unique, street-legal version of Porsche’s Le Mans winner, Porsche’s first hybrid racing car the 911 GT3 R Hybrid (2010), the top-of-the-line racing car Porsche 911 RSR (2017), 911 Carrera RSR 3.0 (1974), 718 RS 60 Spyder (1969), 911 S 2.2 Targa (1970) and 911 Turbo 3.3 (1988).

The World’s Most Popular entry-Level Motorsport Platform

After being introduced to China for the first time last year, the Porsche Sports Cup 2020 finale was once again held in conjunction with the Sportscar Together Day. The Porsche Sports Cup began in Germany 15 years ago, and in the intervening years has grown to become the most popular entry-level motorsport experience platform in the world. Serving as the perfect entry-point into the world of motorsport, the Porsche Sports Cup offers a wide range of experience programmes for drivers of all levels, from the Introduction to Race Track for the beginners and Time Trial for advanced drivers, to more exciting Porsche Sprint Challenge that allows participants to improve their driving skills while enjoying the excitement of the track.

One of the highlights of the day was the Porsche Parade, where Porsche owners and drivers took to the track in their own cars, demonstrating the "Born on the track" appeal of Porsche sports cars. At the front of the line-up was racing driver Kris Wu, who became known for his outstanding track performance over the two days.

“Porsche is more than just a premium sports car manufacturer, we are also a family.” Said Dr. –Ing Jens Puttfarcken. “The Porsche Sportscar Together Day has been held for three years now, and each year it has grown in size and the sports car experience has become increasingly exciting. This year we are also welcoming a new driver, Kris Wu, who we hope will launch an extraordinary racing career and help sports car culture flourish in China.”

Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board at Porsche AG, believes that the impressive product range is another success factor: “Our young, attractive product portfolio appeals to customers. I’m optimistic about the coming months,” says Blume. “The new 911 and our electric sports car, the Taycan, impressively demonstrate our innovative strength, and their sales figures have exceeded our expectations.” 25,400 units of the classic 911 sports car were delivered in the first nine months of the year, corresponding to an increase of one percent year-on-year. The all-electric Porsche Taycan was launched in September 2019 and was handed over to almost 11,000 customers between January and September.

Since the start of the year, Porsche has delivered 191,547 cars to its customers worldwide. Although this is five percent less than in 2019, Porsche has managed to keep the drop at a moderate level when compared to the market as a whole. The sports car manufacturer has profited primarily from the Chinese market, which has recovered quickly after the lockdown. Between January and September, Porsche handed over 62,823 vehicles to customers in China. This corresponds to almost a third of all its global deliveries. Demand is also recovering strongly in other markets.

Despite the difficult conditions on the overall market, Porsche is resolutely pursuing its investments in digitalisation and electrification. 15 billion euros will be invested into new technologies over the next five years. “Although this investment reduces our current result, in the long term it will help to secure the future of the company and jobs,” emphasises Lutz Meschke, Member of the Executive Board responsible for Finance and IT. Besides the challenging market environment, currency effects have also had a negative impact on the result. However, Meschke emphasises that a return on sales of 15 percent still remains the strategic goal of Porsche AG. “Due to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, this is unrealistic for 2020 but, thanks to our long-term strategy, we are confident that we will achieve a double-digit return on sales at the end of this year.”

The schedule for the Porsche Sprint Challenge is as follows：

Please use the following link to watch the all-day events livestream:https://shangzhibo.tv/watch/10184351.

A special motorsport event for Porsche enthusiasts in China

The Porsche Sports Cup was first held in Germany in 2005 and has grown over the years to become the most popular entry-level motorsport platform worldwide. Following its debut in China last year, the Porsche Sports Cup kicked off at Zhuhai International Circuit this summer. From 31 October to 1 November, this exclusive motorsport event for Porsche enthusiasts will return to Shanghai International Circuit, offering a wide range of on-track driving experiences for fans of motorsport, including the Introduction to Race Track Programme, offered for drivers who are new to the circuit. For experienced drivers who want to experience the thrill of speed and excitement on the track, the more challenging Porsche Drivers Competition will be available. Drivers with track experience and a valid racing licence can take part in the Porsche Sprint Challenge to discover their full potential. In addition, all Porsche customers, fans and drivers will also be able to participate in the Porsche Parade in their own Porsche sports cars and race cars, showcasing the indomitable spirit of Porsche on the track.

Kirs Wu courageously and enthusiastically starts his racing career

As a key level on the Porsche Motorsport Asia Pacific pyramid, the Porsche Sports Cup is the ideal path for enthusiasts to make the transition from sports car experience to professional motorsport. After taking part in the Porsche Sports Cup, they will be able to move up to the next level of competition. At the Porsche Sports Cup, Kris Wu, the versatile musician, will take part in the Porsche Sprint Challenge for the first time in his Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport, competing alongside a number of experienced drivers and sprinting towards his first podium finish.

Sportscar Together Day: the annual sports car carnival

As a carnival for Porsche enthusiasts, the third annual Porsche Sportscar Together Day will be held in conjunction with the Porsche Sports Cup at the Shanghai International Circuit, offering not only fierce competition at all levels on the track, but also a full day of fun off the track. In addition to the on-the-track competition, there will also be a selection of fun activities off the track, including an exhibition of classic Porsche models, racing simulators, and the Porsche Kid’s Driving School. Porsche fans of all ages will be able to immerse themselves in the exclusive world of Porsche and experience the brand spirit and unique charm of the marque.

This newly minted driver has dreamt of racing since he was a child. As the owner of a Porsche 911 GT3 R, Kris Wu is not only obsessed with the pursuit of the ultimate driving experience, but also committed to entering the world of professional racing. Porsche’s motorsport framework is based on over 70 years of racing glory and is ably positioned to support all aspects of Kris’ racing endeavours. “Kris Wu’s straightforward character and love for racing are perfectly in line with Porsche’s track spirit and ethos. He represents the new forces of contemporary racing. He successfully advanced from a sports car enthusiast to a professional racing driver, and has set a brilliant example to Chinese motorsports enthusiasts.” Said Mr. Daniel Schmollinger, Vice President Marketing of Porsche China.

In addition to his daily training, in his spare time Kris Wu has also been studying and learning about the best racing techniques from sources both domestic and foreign, and gradually achieving his goal of “breaking through the limits”. “After about five months of unremitting effort, Kris’ ability to handle the car has greatly improved. We can only wait and see what heights he will reach in the future.” Said Dario Garcia, Manager Driving Programs, affirming Kris’ training performance.

At the end of October, Kris Wu will make his debut as a racing driver in the Porsche Sports Cup, one of the worlds most popular motorsport platforms. As a key level on the Porsche Motorsport Asia Pacific pyramid, the Porsche Sports Cup is the perfect starting point for many budding drivers. Kris Wu will drive a 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport as he participates in the Porsche Sprint Challenge, where he will compete with many veterans of the racing world, and have an opportunity to secure his first podium finish.

Additionally, the short film “Racing Driver Kris Wu”, which records his growth as a driver, will be released episodically, revealing the behind-the-scenes story of Kris Wu’s path to motor racing. The first episode, “New Identity”, is first revealed on October 27, and the second and third episodes will be released on October 29 and November 6 (tentatively).

“As a one-stop, high-end, B2C shopping platform that is highly trusted by Chinese consumers, Tmall stands for fashion, trendiness and quality,” said Dr. -Ing. Jens Puttfarcken, President and CEO of Porsche China, “Porsche Tmall store fully caters to the consumption habits of China’s new generation of young people. We will be able to flexibly reach a broader base of customers and fans while providing them with our authentic brand image, product experience and sports car culture. In the future, we will continue to explore diverse new retail approaches to satisfy the ever-changing consumer needs and expectations.”

Porsche Driver’s Selection offers inspiration for the sports car life

Based on the daily life scenarios of Porsche owners, Porsche has created exclusive accessories that are tailored to their personal style. Each item features the finest materials, a sporty and elegant design, intelligent details and uncompromisingly high craftsmanship. With its wide selection of products, Porsche Driver’s Selection interprets any given owner’s passion for sports cars into a Porsche lifestyle, such as glamorous accessories for the home and office, travel-friendly luggage and exquisite model cars.

Over the years, the Porsche Crest and Logo Collection has been generously received by thousands of enthusiasts and is now available on the Tmall store, with popular items listen including the branded Porsche key ring, thermos mug, baseball cap and mug.

Porsche X Tmall Heydrop: 911 Edition for limited pre-sale

Tmall Heydrop is an important online channel for showcasing and offering new products, and has achieved great success since its launch. From 15 October, the Porsche 911 Edition was made available on Tmall Heydrop for limited pre-sales with a special price of RMB 91,100. As of 19 October, this special offer attracted nearly 37,400 discerning sports car enthusiasts to enter their name into a lottery that will determine whether they are one of the lucky few able to purchase this limited edition collection.

As a new addition to the Porsche Originals series, the 911 Edition is a lifestyle accessory made from original Porsche vehicle parts, that combines ingenious design with a new purpose. The collection includes: 911 original sports seat, 911 original cylinder wine cooler, 911 RS Spyder Design original wheel rim wall clock, 911 Carrera original brake disc bookend, 911 Carrera original tailpipe pen holder, 911 GT3 original tailpipe Bluetooth® speaker and 911 GT3 RS limited edition model car 1:18 scale. The total value is upwards of RMB 98,163. Each item combine mechanical design with practical functionality, adding a dose of sports car culture to every day life.

Porsche driving experience with pure sports car pleasure

At the same time, the Porsche Tmall store provides a new online channel for test drive reservations, allowing fans to experience the tight handling of Porsche cars at the Porsche Experience Centre Shanghai. The first batch of driving packages offer benefits such as the opportunity to drive different Porsche vehicles under the professional guidance of a Porsche instructor, the new generation 911 and all-electric Taycan included, as well as the chance to experience a blood-pumping track simulator, thus covering various driving needs, whether the aim is to improve specific driving skills or simply to have fun behind the wheel.

For the upcoming 11 November shopping festival, Porsche will further enrich its Motorsport Collection, updating the new products based on collections of Martini® Racing and Porsche GT4 Clubsport. In the future, Porsche will gradually optimize its E-Commerce layout to better satisfy consumers with diversified channels.

Visit the Porsche Lifestyle Flagship Store at https://porsche.tmall.com/.

The new Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Executive with a system output of 514 kW (700 PS) is now the most powerful variant in the completely revamped product line, combining a 420 kW (571 PS), four-litre biturbo V8 with a 100 kW (136 PS) electric motor. Its all-electric range has been increased thanks to a new 17.9 kWh battery and optimised driving modes.

Another E-Hybrid power level is represented in the form of the new Panamera 4 E-Hybrid, available in three body types. Applying the optimised hybrid essence of the flagship model, the 4-E Hybrid’s electric motor is complemented as before by a 243 kW (330 PS) 2.9-litre biturbo V6 engine, resulting in a system power output of 340 kW (462 PS).

The Panamera portfolio is rounded out by the 4S, which delivers 324 kW (440 PS) and also benefits from all the optimised features of the latest model enhancement in terms of chassis, design, equipment and infotainment.

Panamera becomes the first Porsche model line offering plug-in hybrid models in three power levels, totaling 6 models derivatives. Porsche is therefore systematically extending its E-Performance strategy. This extended power portfolio is poised to satisfy the diversified needs of the market.

Expanding portfolio with improved driving experience

With a 420 kW (571 PS), four-litre biturbo V8 with a 100 kW (136 PS) electric motor, the flagship new Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Executive boasts a system power output of 412 kW (560 PS), while completing the sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds in combination with its standard Sport Chrono package – 0.2 seconds faster than its predecessor. It reaches a top speed of 315 km/h, which represents an improvement of 5 km/h. The new Panamera 4 E-Hybrid with a 100 kW (136 PS) electric motor and a 243 kW (330 PS) 2.9-litre biturbo V6 engine can achieve a system output of 340 kW (462 PS).It takes just 4.4 seconds (-0.2 s) to reach 100 km/h from a standing start on its way to a top speed of up to 280 km/h (+2 km/h).

The gross capacity of the high-voltage battery has been increased from 14.1 to 17.9 kWh, thanks to the use of optimised cells, and the driving modes have been adapted for even more efficient energy utilisation. The Porsche plug-in hybrid models are preferably charged at home – either via a standard domestic outlet or a power socket. A model-specific charging capacity of up to 7.2 kW is possible with the standard Porsche Mobile Charger. Charging is also possible at public charging points using a Mode 3 cable.

The new Panamera 4S, which is still powered by a 324 kW/440 PS, 2.9-litre V6 biturbo engine, achieves the 0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds (-0.1 s) with the Sport Chrono package. It has a top speed of 295 km/h (+6 km/h).

Visually sharpened with even better connectivity

The 4S benefits from all the optimised features of the latest model update, and is equipped with the previously optional Sport Design front end as standard. This features striking air intake grilles and large side cooling air openings as well as a single-bar front light layout. The newly designed front end of the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Executive is differentiated by its dual C-shaped Turbo front light modules as well as its larger side air intakes. The revamped light bar at the rear now runs seamlessly over the luggage compartment lid with an adapted contour. The options available include darkened Exclusive Design tail light modules with dynamic Coming/Leaving Home animation, three new 20- and 21-inch wheels and two new exterior colours (Cherry Metallic and Truffle Brown Metallic).

The Porsche Communication Management (PCM) features higher display resolution and includes additional digital functions and services such as the improved Voice Pilot online voice control, Apple® CarPlay and many other Connect services.

More performance, more comfort

The chassis and control systems have been tuned for sportiness and comfort in all new Panamera models. In some cases, a completely new control strategy has been implemented. A new generation of steering control system and new tyres ensure improved lateral dynamics and greater precision. The flagship Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Executive comes as standard with all currently available chassis and control systems such as the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control Sport (PDCC Sport) electric roll stabilisation system, which includes Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus), rear axle steering with Power Steering Plus as well as the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) system.

“Nanning is a strategic location for Porsche China's continued deepening of its development blueprint for South China. In recent years, with the construction of China’s ‘the Belt and Road Initiatives’, Nanning has become the leading city for open cooperation in the ASEAN region, with economic and cultural exchanges developing rapidly.” said Mr. David Xiao, Chief Operating Officer of Porsche China. “China became Porsche's first global market to gradually and cautiously step out of the shadow of the coronavirus, and has been Porsche‘s largest single market for the past five years. In the first six months of this year, Porsche delivered a total of 117,000 new cars to customers worldwide, of these deliveries more than a third came to China. We will continue this momentum and strive for even greater achivements. The successful establishment of the Xingning Nanning Porsche Centre is an important measure of this goal, allowing even more Porsche customers and enthusiasts here and in the surrounding regions to conveniently enjoy the best-in-class customer care and the exclusive Porsche brand experience. ”

Porsche Centre Nanning Xingning has been built to Porsche's global standards by Mount Hero Motors Group who have been one of Porsche‘s collaborative partners for several years, and is committed to providing fascinating products and meticulous experiences to its customers. It is spread across 10,389 square metres and equipped with 17 work bays, two direct dialogue bays and a state-of-the-art showroom that is capable of simultaneously displaying 14 Porsche sports cars. Additionally, Porsche Centre Nanning Xingning is equipped with Porsche's global standard testing equipment and special maintenance equipment. What’s more, every onsite Porsche technician has undergone rigorous training and screening, all in order to provide customers with a full-range of consulting and customisation services, and to create the ultimate bespoke sports car of their dreams.

Mr. Pancras Pong, General Manager of the Porsche Centre Nanning Xingning, said at the opening ceremony that, “As a key partner of Porsche in South China, we have great confi-dence in Porsche and great expectations for the Nanning and Guangxi region. As an authorised Porsche dealer, we insist on customer service of the highest quality, and we aim for the highest level of customer satisfaction. At the same time, it is our honour to actively contribute to the development of the local economy and society in the wave of consumption upgrades.”

Located in the south of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning is not only an ancient cultural city with a long history, but also a modern city where many ethnic groups, mainly the Zhuang, live in harmony. Nanning is an intersection for multi-regional cooperation, such as the Pan-Beibu Gulf Economic Cooperation, Great Mekong Subregion Cooperation, and Pan-Pearl River Delta Regional Cooperation. As a frontier city of China's opening-up and cooperation with ASEAN, Nanning is also the permanent host city for China-ASEAN Expo, and is an important gateway for China’s “Belt and Road Initiatives”. Naturally, it is also an area that Porsche has been paying close attention to. Adhering to a customer-centered concept, the new Porsche Centre will provide professional technology and high-level services for local customers, while conveying the cultural connotations of Porsche's constant innovation and pursuit of excellence.

Products are a core area of competency for the Porsche brand. At the end of September, the new Panamera made its offline premiere at the Beijing Auto Show with enhanced sportiness and comfort, and clocked a new official record in the “executive cars” class on the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife. Porsche’s first fully-electric sports car Taycan series now has four derivatives available, ably covering wide market needs. The Taycan Turbo, Taycan Turbo S and Taycan 4S have been gradually delivered to Chinese customers. The Taycan rear-wheel drive will arrive at dealerships at the end of this year. The new 911 Targa has also taken its place in the eighth generation lineup of Porsche’s legendary 911 sportscar. Demonstrating its unique yet classic aesthetic, the new Targa is a boldly modern interpretation of refined taste and driving pleasure; it is highly sought after by driving enthusiasts for its timeless style and unmatched vision. In the future, Porsche will continue to bring its customer-oriented products and services to Chinese consumers.