Porsche is implementing a unique, integrated universal charging solution in conjunction with the introduction of the new 2014 Panamera S E Hybrid – which celebrated its world premiere at the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show. This solution covers all aspects of electric driving – from charging accessories to installation of infrastructure and even partial operation by compatible smartphones.
Seamless and comprehensive e-mobility strategy for E-Hybrid customers
Porsche has now developed a comprehensive integrated solution that is intended to cover all markets for the Panamera S E-Hybrid – a world car that will be driven on all continents. This is a challenge as certain system parameters vary by country and region, such as the plug and electrical output types and grid voltages and frequencies. In its e-mobility solution, Porsche has put together a complete package from which customers can choose what they need. Playing a key role here is the specially developed Porsche Universal Charger (AC) which is included as standard. It provides the connection between the vehicle’s charging interface and many different types of electrical outlets which can supply the car with AC electricity at home or on the road. Along with the charging equipment, the e-mobility concept also includes customized solutions for installing charging infrastructure and conveniently operating many vehicle charging and convenience functions via a smartphone app.
E-mobility: charging options for all major countries of the world
At the dealership, the customer will receive all key information on operating their new plug-in hybrid vehicle. One new topic for this car is the power supply system for a home charging solution, which is supplied as standard. This system can be connected to a 120V or 240V electrical outlet. If a customer requires a 240V outlet installed in their garage, and does not already have an electrician, the Porsche dealership can introduce the customer to a licensed electrician who can check or set up the necessary connections.
Even before delivery of the hybrid vehicle, Porsche can supply the customer with a wall-mounted charging dock that is part of the standard equipment. Housed in a high-end enclosure developed by Porsche Design are the mobile Porsche Universal Charger (AC) with the charging cable, control unit and vehicle cable. The customer can choose from over 20 different charging cable versions which cover nearly all of the world’s standardized plug connection types. Standard charging cables include one cable for the normal 120V outlet (NEMA 5-15) and one for a selected type of 240V outlet. All other versions are available as options. The charging cable and vehicle cable are interconnected by a plug connector with the control unit, and the driver can interchange these cables easily and quickly. For example, the driver might take the 120V cable along on a road trip while leaving the 240V cable in their garage. Porsche will also offer the option of a free-standing charging pedestal assembly that could serve as an electric charging station for carports or a company’s parking spaces.
Porsche Car Connect: Convenient app controls auxiliary climate control
The Panamera S E-Hybrid will offer the convenience of remote control of certain vehicle functions via a smartphone app under the name Porsche Car Connect. The associated e-mobility services are provided to the original purchaser for five years free-of-charge. The driver will be able to use the smartphone app to access key vehicle information and to control vehicle functions. The app, available for iOS and Android devices, is organized into four menu areas: charge status overview, driving range management, charging timer and optional remote control of auxiliary climate control.
Along with the battery charging status and remaining charging time, the current driving range is shown for both all-electric and combustion engine driving modes. The electric driving range is intuitively visualized on a navigation map. The charging timer function allows users input up to three different departure times. The system controls the charging process based on these timer inputs, so that the battery is charged at the lowest cost possible, for example when users can utilize “off peak” electrical rates.
Electrification of the climate control system enables another very convenient option in the plug-in hybrid: auxiliary climate control. The optional auxiliary climate control system can be activated via the charging timer, so that the interior reaches the prescribed temperature by a specified departure time. The vehicle interior is heated or cooled accordingly. In the winter, a high-voltage auxiliary heater is also used to generate heating power electrically. Auxiliary climate control is possible when the charging cable is connected or when the vehicle is just powered by the battery.
First plug-in hybrid from Porsche; driving without gasoline for up to 20 miles
In launching the second generation of the Panamera, Porsche is introducing a new plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) to the luxury class: The Panamera S E-Hybrid produces a system power of 416 hp. Simultaneously; electrical performance was substantially improved with regard to electric acceleration, electric driving range and electric top speed. The electric driving range of the Panamera S E-Hybrid is estimated to be 20 miles. However, actual electric range will vary depending on conditions such as use of the air conditioning and heating, driving terrain, driving style and outside temperatures. A realistic electric range in everyday driving would be between 12 and 22 miles – even longer distances could be covered under especially favorable conditions. In all-electric mode, the Panamera with the new plug-in drive system can be driven up to a speed of 84 mph. Its top track speed is 168 mph.
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