EXPERIENCING A LEGENDARY MARQUE motoring Motoring correspondent Kristian Harrison has driven many cars in numerous places around the world, but rarely has he come back from an event as thrilled as he did this month after being invited by Porsche Centre Bahrain to experience the birthplace of the iconic brand in Stuttgart, Germany. The adventure offered a perfect blend of cuttingedge innovation and rich automotive heritage, with the launch of the new Panamera E-Hybrid models followed by a celebration of 50 years of Porsche Turbo. Porsche Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid After arriving in Germany on a scorching day and attending the opening press conference where the amazing technology in the new Panamera E-Hybrids was laid bare, the excitement was palpable. If only the next day could come sooner so we could get behind the wheel! When it did arrive, it did so with thick grey clouds and a torrential downpour. Oh how I missed that bipolar European weather! However, the dramatic deluge added even more of a sense of adventure to our drive. After assembling at the Porsche Museum in the heart of the complex of factories and offices which constitutes the Porsche Headquarters, we were a given a demonstration of perhaps the Panamera’s most outstanding feature, the Porsche Active Ride system which is being rolled out across all E-Hybrid models in the Porsche portfolio. Amongst many other benefits, like insulation against uneven surfaces and dynamic ground clearance, this advanced suspension technology constantly monitors longitudinal and lateral acceleration. It actively reacts to braking inputs as well as to the driver’s steering movements. It also builds up forces that counter the natural pitching and rolling movements of the body and in this way keeps the body level in all driving situations. Best of all, the car (through connection with an app) has the ability to demonstrate its impressive capabilities on your phone – a feature I thoroughly enjoyed – so you can show off your dancing car to your friends! As for the drive itself, the Panamera E-Hybrid models showcase Porsche’s impressive blend of efficiency and performance. The crowning moment as we snaked our way through the Black Forest was driving the Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid. Equipped with monstrous V8 engine and an enhanced plug-in hybrid system, it offered powerful acceleration and unparallelled control. Navigating the serpentine roads amidst towering trees and hairpin turns, the Panamera’s precision handling was a delight, gripping the wet road with ease. With a staggering 680PS and 930Nm of torque, this model is the epitome of power and luxury. Accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds and reaching a top speed of 315kmph, the Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid handled every twist and turn with poise. Despite the challenging, rain-drenched roads, its advanced hybrid powertrain delivered both ferocious acceleration and serene electric cruising alike, showcasing the best of both worlds. Hitting the open road with a powerful beast ready to roar at the press of a pedal is amongst the finer pleasures in life, and doing so in such a special location made it even more perfect. Bahrainthismonth.com 40 June 2024
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