KUALA LUMPUR:  Sime Darby Auto Performance, the authorized distributor and seller of Porsche vehicles and parts in Malaysia, previewed the highly anticipated all-new Macan EV during the Porsche World Roadshow Malaysia 2024 at the Sepang International Circuit. This event, which also premiered the facelifted Taycan, was filled with adrenaline-pumping track activities featuring 22 different Porsche models. However, the spotlight was undoubtedly on the all-new Porsche Macan EV.

Porsche Malaysia delighted attendees with two variants of the Macan EV: the regular Macan 4 and the more aggressive-looking Turbo variant. While photos from its global debut in Singapore back in January 2024 didn't quite capture its allure, seeing the Macan EV up close truly showcased its impressive design and features.

The Porsche Macan EV is built on the new dedicated EV platform, the Premium Platform Electric (PPE), developed within the larger Volkswagen Group. This advanced platform features a state-of-the-art 800-volt electrical architecture, matching the Taycan. It introduces new technologies, including advanced two-valve air suspension dampers for a perfect balance between comfort and agility and rear-axle steering up to five degrees.

Designed with Porsche's signature flair, the second-generation all-electric Macan boasts characteristic Porsche elements such as the distinctive flyline, a flat hood with pronounced fenders, and split front light grouping. The Turbo variant features Turbonite accents, a special elegant metallic shade of grey devised by Porsche's Colour and Trim experts.

Inside, the Macan EV has an overhauled interior with a dash featuring three screens: a 12.6" curved display meter cluster, a 10.9" central infotainment display, and a 10.9" passenger display. The passenger display can stream videos from YouTube or TikTok with a special film to prevent driver distraction. The central infotainment system supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The center console includes a smartphone compartment with 15W wireless charging, four USB-C fast charging ports, and additional storage space.

The two Macan EV variants differ significantly in performance. The Macan 4 has a dual motor AWD setup, delivering up to 408 PS and 650 Nm of torque in overboost mode, achieving 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds with a top speed of 220 km/h. The Macan Turbo, with a twin motor AWD setup, offers a staggering 639 PS and 1,130 Nm of torque, allowing it to sprint from 0-100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds and reach a top speed of 260 km/h.

Both variants are equipped with a large 100 kWh (95 kWh usable) battery, optimized for size and packaging, providing impressive ranges: up to 613 km for the Macan 4 and up to 591 km for the Turbo, both WLTP rated. Charging times are also impressive, with an 11 kW AC charging time of 10 hours, a maximum DC rate of up to 270 kW on 800 V chargers, and up to 135 kW on 400 V chargers. Under ideal conditions, both variants can charge from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes or gain 100 km of range in as little as four minutes. The Macan features two charging ports: an AC+DC CCS port on the rear driver’s side and an AC plug on the passenger side.

While the rear passenger space may seem still to be a bit small, the second-generation Macan EV does offers more leg- and headroom than its predecessor. The boot capacity has also been increased to 540 liters with an additional 84 liters of frunk storage. A Porsche representative demonstrated to the media that the Macan EV is equipped with an electronically deployable tow hook at the rear, a convenient feature for those planning to tow boats or caravans. Another impressive feature is the retractable charging ports, which seamlessly retract into the body, operated by a touch detection system.

Representatives from Sime Darby Auto Performance announced that bookings for the Macan EV are expected to open in Q4. However, they have not yet disclosed any pricing details. Given that EVs qualify for tax exemptions in Malaysia, the Macan EV should be priced significantly lower than its ICE counterparts. Interestingly, it appears that the ICE variants will continue to be sold alongside the Macan EV for the foreseeable future.

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