The new Porsche Cayenne Electric boasts a notable speed-related feature: its ability to DC fast charge at speeds of “up to 400 kW,” with a claimed 10%-to-80% charge time of just 16 minutes. The author recently had the opportunity to test this claim with a base model Cayenne EV.
According to the spec sheet, the actual max DC rate is 390 kW, which still puts it among the fastest-charging EVs on the market. The Volvo EX60, Lucid Gravity, and BMW’s new iX3 and i3 can also do 400 kW, while the Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door is capable of 600 kW.
The Cayenne Electric’s charging capabilities make it the quickest-charging electric Porsche so far, outpacing the Macan Electric’s 270 kW and the Taycan’s 320 kW.
However, 400-kW public chargers are still uncommon, particularly in North America. In the Greater Toronto Area, the author found only one Ivy-operated station that could support this speed.
The author tested the charger with the Cayenne EV, starting with 13% battery life and using the Ivy app to initiate the charge. The process was relatively straightforward, thanks to an adapter provided by Porsche that allowed the car’s Tesla-style NACS port to work with the CCS charger.
The charging process began at a rate of 349 kW, which is practically the max of most other charging stations. The car’s double-sided battery cooling system, equivalent to about 100 large household refrigerators, helped maintain this speed.
Charging Speed and Efficiency
The charge rate stayed around 350 kW until the state of charge approached 50%, at which point it gradually dropped to around 270 kW. After 16 minutes, the car had reached 80% charge, with a charge speed of around 200 kW.
This result is impressive, getting close to the manufacturer’s claimed specs. Although the author didn’t observe the full 390 kW or 400 kW, the charging speed was still notable, making electric car ownership feel more feasible for many people.
Comparing Costs
In comparison, the national average price of premium fuel in the U.S. is $5 per gallon, according to AAA. The gas-powered Cayenne S, with an EPA-rated 18 mpg combined, would cost $0.28 per mile in gas. Electricity, even at premium DC fast-charging prices, is still less expensive than gas on a per-mile basis.
Related: 2027 Range Rover Electric Looks Almost Identical to Gas Version
For people considering electric car ownership, the Cayenne Electric’s charging capabilities make it an attractive option. The ability to charge quickly and efficiently could alleviate range anxiety and make long road trips more feasible.
Real-World Implications
The Cayenne Electric’s charging speed has significant implications for everyday driving. With the ability to charge to 80% in just 16 minutes, drivers can easily top up their battery during short stops, making electric car ownership more practical for many people.
As the number of 400-kW chargers increases, the benefits of electric car ownership will become more apparent. For now, the Cayenne Electric’s impressive charging capabilities make it a compelling choice for those looking to switch to an electric vehicle.
The Cayenne Electric’s performance is a significant step forward for electric vehicles, and its charging capabilities are a major factor in this. As the technology continues to improve, we can expect to see even faster charging speeds and more efficient batteries, making electric car ownership an increasingly attractive option.
Porsche’s efforts to improve charging speeds and efficiency will have a significant impact on the market.
It is clear that electric car ownership is becoming more practical and appealing. With the Cayenne Electric’s charging capabilities and the increasing availability of 400-kW chargers, the future of electric vehicles looks promising.
The Cayenne Electric’s performance is a notable achievement in the development of electric vehicles. Its charging capabilities make it an attractive option for those considering electric car ownership.
The Cayenne Electric’s ability to charge quickly is also influenced by the temperature, with Porsche stating that the claimed charge time should hold up even on very cold or hot days, making it a reliable option for drivers in various climates, and the car’s loud sound during charging is a result of its powerful cooling system.