Lars Kern drives Taycan Turbo GT to record times at Laguna Seca and Nürburgring

Lars Kern drives Taycan Turbo GT to record times at Laguna Seca and Nürburgring

Photo credit: Porsche

The Porsche Taycan Turbo GT, along with its Weissach Package variant, has recently set new records for electric series-production cars on renowned race tracks, underscoring Porsche’s engineering prowess and the vehicle’s exceptional performance capabilities. Development driver Lars Kern piloted the Taycan Turbo GT to a record lap time at the Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca in California, marking it as the fastest electric series-production car at this track with a time of 1:27.87. Additionally, Kern established a new class record at the Nürburgring, driving a pre-production model of the same vehicle to achieve a lap time of 7:07.55, significantly outperforming previous records including his own in a Taycan Turbo S.

Porsche attributes these achievements to the holistic design approach of the Taycan, emphasizing not just power, but a balanced integration of acceleration, braking, aerodynamics, and handling. The Taycan Turbo GT models, particularly with the Weissach Package, exemplify this philosophy, offering a combination of advanced powertrain technology, aerodynamic design, and lightweight construction measures that elevate driving dynamics and enjoyment.

The Taycan Turbo GT’s powertrain has been enhanced, with new power electronics and a rear-axle motor that boost overall system power. This results in a significantly quicker acceleration compared to previous models, achieving 0 to 60 mph in just 2.2 seconds, or 2.1 seconds with the Weissach Package. The vehicles feature a pulse inverter capable of 900 amps, up from 600 amps in the Turbo S, allowing for more power and torque. Silicon carbide in the pulse inverters improves efficiency by reducing switching losses.

Lightweight construction plays a crucial role in the Taycan Turbo GT’s performance. Porsche has utilized carbon fiber components and innovative construction techniques to reduce weight, enhance aerodynamics, and improve braking performance. The Weissach Package further emphasizes lightweight and aerodynamic design, incorporating additional features such as a fixed rear wing for increased downforce.

The Taycan Turbo GT is also designed with track performance in mind, featuring “Attack Mode” for a temporary boost in power, similar to the push-to-pass function but optimized for track use. The vehicle’s suspension and braking systems have been tailored for dynamic driving, with special performance tires and lightweight ceramic brakes standard.

Aesthetically, the Taycan Turbo GT and its Weissach Package variant offer exclusive design elements and color options, with a focus on materials like carbon fiber to emphasize the car’s sporting nature. The interior is equipped with sporty Race-Tex features and Adaptive Sports Seats Plus, among other premium details tailored for performance enthusiasts.

The 2025 Taycan Turbo GT and Taycan Turbo GT with Weissach Package are priced starting at $230,000, excluding taxes and fees, with deliveries expected to begin in the summer of 2024. These models represent the pinnacle of Porsche’s electric vehicle performance, combining innovative engineering with a comprehensive approach to design and functionality aimed at providing an unparalleled driving experience.

A version of this story first appeared on our sister publication EV Pulse.

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