Porsche Debuts First Electric Cross-Utility Vehicle

Porsche is enhancing their electric vehicle portfolio with an exciting crossover edition of their Mission E. A concept of the Cross Turismo model was debuted at the Geneva Motor Show this week at Switzerland. The new all-wheel drive will be able to handle off-road travel and various weather conditions without emitting carbon dioxide.

The new crossover has a sporty look, similar to the 911 models that, at the time being, won’t be electrified. It has the ability to handle various types of terrain and can quickly go on and off paved roads thanks to its adaptable air suspension and the manufacturer’s all-wheel driving technology. It’s designed to be the first electric vehicle that contains a continuous power level.

Its electric powertrain has over 600 horsepower with two electric motors and it can accelerate from 0 to 62 miles per hour in less than 3.5 seconds. Maximum range falls at 311 miles and 80 percent of the vehicle can be charged in 15 minutes. The 800-volt lithium-ion battery can be charged with induction technology or at home on a charging dock.

Crossovers are becoming a growing trend in the United States. Joe Lawrence, chief operating officer of Porsche’s North American division, believes that the new Mission E concept will be attractive in that regard. Unlike other manufacturers, the company plans to streamline their variety of vehicles instead of placing them in different categories.

"We are big believers that pure electric vehicles or plug-in hybrids can be real Porsche cars like those with an internal-combustion engine," Lawrence told Autoblog. "They can achieve incredible performance and dynamism, so it does fit very well with what Porsches are about. So there is no need to differentiate with a separate sub-brand."

While the Mission E Cross Turismo is incredibly fast, it’s also made for longer trips. The back of the vehicle is versatile, tailor-made to support various types of outdoor gear and sports equipment. Seats can be adjusted to provide ample room and a rail system can secure cargo safely during the trip.

For the interior of the vehicle, Porsche fuses their classic look with digital enhancements. Similar to the rest of the car, it holds bucket-type racing seats and has a multi-screen digital dashboard for the driver that stretches out to the front-seat passenger. There are three circular display fields on TFT screens and the center console conveniently rises toward the digital dash.

One aspect Porsche will look into improving is the electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Lawrence acknowledged that over 80 percent of owners charge their vehicles at home or work, but it’s necessary to add more stations. In addition to their 189 dealerships across the United States, they’ll be looking at establishments like shopping malls, hotels, and resorts to add a charging method.