The entire world has suffered immensely under the thumb of a terrible virus, infecting millions and killing hundreds of thousands of people globally. In the midst of this pandemic, Porsche was trying to launch a new electric car that could portend the future of the brand. The new Taycan has received praise, including from us, for its incredible dynamic abilities and true Porsche feel. It’s the first EV that has truly gotten our blood pumping, as it’s not only quick, but also fantastic to drive.
As a cautionary move, Porsche closed down its factories for 6 weeks from early April to mid May. That timing was crucial for the Taycan, and Porsche’s ability to meet demand has suffered as a result. In a recent conversation with Automotive News, Porsche Cars North America CEO Klaus Zellmer had this to say: “That six-week window was very much reserved for fulfilling the U.S. demand. We had to take thousands of cars out of our sales plan for this year that we will not get into the United States and Canada.”
Deliveries of the new Taycan began here in North America back in December of 2019, and demand has been climbing. Porsche is selling Taycans as quickly as it can stock them, and this delay has caused many buyers to put their names on a wait list of indefinite length. Global demand for the Taycan, particularly the new lower-priced 4S model, has reportedly seen Porsche re-double its annual capacity of the model to 40,000 units. Having driven one, it’s easy to see why. It’s the best car Porsche sells right now. Bar none. And possibly the best new car on the market, period.
Personally, I’m waiting on the rear-wheel drive long-range model to come out. Eventually. Hopefully.