Electric vehicles are gaining traction in the automotive industry, and more people are interested in buying an electric car these days. In fact, in 2020, global sales of electric vehicles (EVs) reached more than $3.2 million.
EVs give people an opportunity to drive a car that's friendlier to the environment, has superb efficiency, less energy cost, less maintenance and better overall performance – not to mention they're fun to drive. Belle Meade Lifestyle took a 2021 Porsche Taycan 4S on the road to experience this EV for ourselves.
When you get behind the wheel of a Taycan (pronounced “tie-con”), it immediately feels like a Porsche -- the driving position is low, the steering wheel feels familiar, it's extremely quiet, and it's FAST. The 4S goes from 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds. If you like speed, you'll be blown away by the Turbo S model, which reaches 60 mph in 2.8 seconds, making it the fastest and quickest accelerating battery-powered car that Motor Trend has ever tested.
In the Taycan, you'll find yourself driving faster than you thought before you even realize it.
There's a long list of luxury options in this vehicle, including four-zone climate control, massaging front seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats. The Taycan 4S comes standard with a 522-hp powertrain, adaptive air suspension, a partial leather interior, and keyless entry.
This month, Porsche is rolling out the standard 2021 Taycan with a starting price of $79,900.
Inside the sleek-looking Taycan, it's equipped with all the technology a driver would need. The design appears simple and in line with other Porsche models. There's no shortage of screens once you're inside: a 16.8-inch, curved display for the gauges and two centrally located touch screens that control the infotainment. The 2021 model is upgraded with heads-up display and Smartlift function. The Taycan can be programmed so that it's automatically raised in certain, recurring locations, such as speed bumps or driveways.
The Taycan boasts a center of gravity lower than that of the 911 (actually lower than any car Porsche makes), and any EV on the market; and this characteristic alone is enough to make the automotive world stand up and pay attention.
Have you already forgotten this car is electric? We did, and that's because when you drive a Taycan, it doesn't feel like an electric car on the inside. It's not trying to be different or unconventional, it's just a Porsche that happens to be electric.
An important part of any EV is the battery range and charging of the vehicle. Its range is approximately 203 miles according to the EPA. That sounded low for standard EVs, and our research found testing by a third-party and individuals in the market say 278-290 miles is more accurate. Taycans can be charged at home with 240-volt electrical adapter or at public charging stations. It takes between 9-10 hours to fully charge with a standard 240-volt charger; an upgrade from a 79-kWh battery pack for a 93-kWh unit is available.
A new feature in the 2021 Taycan is the Plug and Charge. Taycan drivers merely have to plug in the charging cable and authentication is handled automatically via the ISO 15118 standard. Plug and Charge is available at many Electrify America charging points, found throughout Nashville.
In a sea of electric vehicles on the road in Nashville, the Taycan truly stands out. The opening price point is right in line with its competitor. If you're ready to experience an EV, have a love for sports cars and enjoy the faster pace of life, the Taycan is a clear choice.
Base Price: $79,980
MSRP: $137,080
Exterior Color: Chalk
Interior Color: Black
Seating: 4
Drivetrain: AWD
Horsepower: 429-616
Porsche of Nashville, 1580 Mallory Lane, Brentwood
615.647.3200
Porscheofnashville.com
"When you drive a Taycan it doesn't feel like an electric car on the inside. It's not trying to be different, it's just a Porsche that happens to be electric."