FYI: Porsche’s Taycan Sets New Ice Drifting Record for EVs in Finland
Porsche has clinched another impressive milestone with its all-electric Taycan GTS, adding a new Guinness World Record to its achievements. The groundbreaking feat of the longest continuous electric vehicle drift on ice was accomplished by skilled driver and Porsche Experience instructor Jens Richter. This memorable achievement took place at Porsche’s Arctic Center located in the chilly terrains of Lavi, Finland.
A Record-Breaking Drift
Earlier this month, on January 14, Richter piloted the Taycan GTS to execute an uninterrupted drift for an incredible 46 minutes, covering 132 laps and amassing a total distance of 10.875 miles (17.503 kilometers). The feat wasn’t merely a first try success; an initial attempt was cut short after approximately 6.8 miles (11 kilometers) due to the rapid deterioration of the ice surface under the stress of continuous drifting.
However, persistence paid off. For the successful record-setting attempt, modifications included equipping the Taycan with tires featuring shorter spikes and optimizing performance in cooler ice temperatures as night set in. The diligence in preparation underscored the capability of the Taycan GTS’s all-wheel-drive system and robust chassis, perfectly showcasing its aptitude for controlled sideway slides even in harsh conditions.
Precision and Performance
Porsche’s use of cutting-edge technology underpins the success of this venture. Each detail of the drift’s parameters, including distance and G-forces, was meticulously recorded using a professional GPS measuring system. With the drift executed on a track featuring a 193-foot diameter circle, the Taycan GTS, equipped with Michelin tires bearing one-millimeter spikes, demonstrated extraordinary performance.
Toppling Past Records
This remarkable achievement surpassed the previous ice drifting record set by Wang Zhilong in China with a Mercedes-Benz EV, which managed a 9.202-mile drift. In addition to this latest triumph, the Taycan boasts a legacy of high-caliber records. In 2020, it drifted 210 laps in 55 minutes, while in 2021, it became the fastest vehicle driven indoors at 102.5 miles per hour. Moreover, it held the record for the largest altitude change by an EV until recently surpassed by Hyundai’s Ioniq 5.
Powering Through
At the heart of the Taycan GTS is a formidable dual-motor all-wheel-drive system delivering an impressive 690 horsepower, a testament to Porsche’s commitment to pushing the limits of electric vehicle performance.
In summary, Porsche continues to lead the charge in the EV arena, not just with innovative automotive technology but also by creating and breaking records that reflect its pursuit of excellence. The Taycan drifter’s prowess on ice is just one more feather in the cap of this high-performance electric vehicle.
For more insights and updates, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi, or follow us on Twitter @automotivefyi.
William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
