Porsche began experimenting with real-world technology from its mission and electric race car concept in a Cayman-based prototype.
The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 ePerformance combines Mission R’s powertrain and battery technology with the body shell of the 718 Cayman GT4 ClubSport racer, Porsche explained in a press release Monday.
That means the Cayman GT4 ePerformance has an electric motor that powers each axle, with a 1,073-hp maximum output like the Mission R. However, engineers plan to dial it back a bit in most uses. Porsche says the Electric Cayman produces 985 hp on the simulated qualifying trim and 603 hp on the simulated race trim.
Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 ePerformance
At lower race power levels, the car has enough battery charge to run for 30 minutes, the same length as a Carrera Cup race, Porsche claims. The automaker further states that the Cayman GT4 e-performance matches the lap time and speed of the current 911 GT3 Cup car.
An oil-cooling system for battery packs and motors helps to counteract the loss of heat-related performance so that the power remains constant for the Porsche-targeted half-hour racing stint. When it comes time to recharge, a 900-volt electrical architecture allows 5% to 80% charge in about 15 minutes, the automaker claims.
A design team led by Grant Larson, the designer of the original Porsche Boxstar concept, has also made some changes to the bodywork. The electric racer is 5.5 inches wider than a standard 718 Cayman GT4 clubsport, thanks to the wide fender flare covering 18-inch Michelin racing tires. Body panels and tires include renewable materials, including natural fiber composites and recycled carbon fiber for bodywork.
Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 ePerformance
The Cayman GT4 ePerformance will make its public debut at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed scheduled for June 23-26. It will then travel to Porsche’s Leipzig factory in Germany in August for the 20th anniversary of that facility, then tour European countries. A pair of prototypes will then travel to North America in 2023 and Asia in 2024.
In that time, Porsche could be ready for a 2021 production electric 718 display Cars and drivers The report Automaker estimates that by 2030, more than 80% of its sales will be EVs. It is investing in battery technology and manufacturing to prepare for it.