Porsche is once again making headlines, and this time it’s all about the Taycan Turbo GT. This electric powerhouse recently shattered the previous lap record at Road Atlanta, leaving competitors in the dust and proving that electric vehicles can dominate the racetrack just as fiercely as their gasoline counterparts.
How Did the Taycan Turbo GT Set a New Record?
With a blistering lap time of 1:27.15, the Taycan Turbo GT didn’t just beat the previous record held by the Taycan Turbo S; it obliterated it by a staggering 6.73 seconds. Behind the wheel was none other than Patrick Long, a seasoned racer who knows how to push a car to its limits. The Turbo GT’s performance is a testament to Porsche’s engineering prowess, showcasing how far electric vehicles have come in terms of speed and handling.
What Makes the Taycan Turbo GT Stand Out?
One of the standout features of the Taycan Turbo GT is its impressive powertrain. With a jaw-dropping 1,019 horsepower, this all-electric sedan is less than a second slower than the legendary 911 GT3 RS. The Turbo GT’s secret weapon? A set of ultra-sticky Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tires, specially designed to maximize grip and ensure that all that power is effectively channeled to the road.
Additionally, the car was equipped with the optional Weissach Package, which removes the rear seats to transform it into a lightweight two-seater. This not only enhances performance but also emphasizes Porsche’s commitment to creating a vehicle that’s as track-ready as it is luxurious.
What Conditions Contributed to the Record?
The record lap was achieved under optimal conditions: tire pressures were set at 37 psi, the battery was charged to 97%, and while the track was mostly dry, a few damp patches added an extra layer of challenge. These factors combined to create the perfect storm for a record-setting run, demonstrating how meticulous Porsche is about every detail when it comes to performance.
How Does the Taycan Turbo GT Compare to Other Performance Cars?
While the Taycan Turbo GT’s lap time is impressive, it still trails behind the production car lap record of 1:22.80 set by the 2025 Chevy Corvette ZR1. However, it’s essential to remember that comparing an electric sedan to a sports car like the Corvette is like comparing apples to oranges. The Taycan’s time is closer to that of the Porsche 911 GT2 RS, which recorded a 1:24.88 lap in 2019. It’s clear that the Taycan Turbo GT is not just a great electric vehicle; it’s a serious contender in the world of high-performance cars.
What’s Next for Porsche and the Taycan?
Porsche is clearly on a mission to reclaim its status in the electric vehicle arena. Earlier this year, the Taycan Turbo GT also set records at other prestigious tracks, including Interlagos and Laguna Seca. However, it faced stiff competition from newer entrants like Xiaomi’s SU7 Ultra, which recently snatched away some of its records. This competitive landscape is pushing Porsche to continuously innovate and showcase the capabilities of the Taycan.
In a recent statement, Patrick Long highlighted the car’s impressive handling, particularly praising the Active Ride suspension for its ability to counteract pitch, roll, and squat. This feedback underscores the engineering excellence that Porsche has poured into the Taycan Turbo GT, making it not just fast, but also incredibly responsive and enjoyable to drive.
The big takeaway? The Taycan Turbo GT isn’t just about speed; it’s about redefining what an electric vehicle can achieve on the track. So, whether you’re a car enthusiast or just curious about the future of electric performance, keep an eye on Porsche. They’re not just participating in the EV race; they’re leading it. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.