82 MPG combined is impressive fuel economy, a major change in the world of high-performance vehicles. The 2023 Porsche Taycan Perf Battery Plus achieves this remarkable figure through electric technology. This is a car that delivers fast acceleration and sports car handling while avoiding the expense associated with traditional gas-guzzlers. To understand its significance, consider the target customer. These are buyers who previously might have justified poor fuel economy with ‘performance’ or ‘luxury’ but appreciate Porsche taking a leadership position with EV technology and design.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the Taycan Performance Battery Plus’s efficiency even further, showing strong performance in both city and open-road driving. It achieves 78 MPG in the city, where regenerative braking captures energy during frequent stops and starts, maximizing efficiency. On the highway, the Taycan achieves an EPA-estimated 88 MPG. This sustained efficiency on longer journeys stems from the Taycan’s aerodynamic design and efficient electric powertrain, proving that electric performance vehicles don’t only thrive in urban environments.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Porsche Taycan Perf Battery Plus at $950. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a combination of city and highway driving, and factoring in the national average electricity prices. This low fuel cost demonstrates the long-term economic advantages of electric vehicles, particularly over traditional high-performance sports cars. The cost savings become even more apparent when accounting for reduced maintenance requirements common to EVs, such as oil changes.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world EV efficiency may vary. Factors such as driving style, ambient temperature, and using the vehicle’s heating or cooling systems can affect the actual range and efficiency. Aggressive acceleration and frequent use of ‘Sport’ modes will reduce range, while driving conservatively in ‘Normal’ or ‘Range’ modes can help to maximize efficiency. Drivers can monitor their consumption through the vehicle’s infotainment system to optimize practices, but even under “worst case” circumstances, the Taycan’s EV efficiency is impressive.

How it compares

Compared to its internal combustion engine counterparts, the Taycan Perf Battery Plus stands in a league of its own. For example, the Porsche Panamera Turbo S, while offering comparable performance, achieves around 18 MPG combined. Even hybrid performance sedans don’t come close to the Taycan’s efficiency. The BMW 530e hybrid, a luxury plug-in sedan, earns around 64 MPGe combined when factoring in electric driving. Tesla’s Model S Long Range achieves around 120 MPGe combined, but the Porsche buyer may still accept a modest efficiency hit to enjoy the vehicle’s premium build quality, styling, and driving feel. For those interested in all all Porsche fuel economy data or even TAYCAN MPG across all years, there are resources to compare each model.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of regenerative braking. The Taycan offers adjustable regenerative braking settings. Experiment with the different settings to find one that suits your driving style and allows you to capture the most energy when decelerating. Reduce your reliance on the physical brakes as much as possible.

Precondition the cabin while plugged in. Before departing, use the Porsche Connect app to preheat or precool the cabin while the vehicle is still plugged into the charger. This minimizes the energy draw from the battery while driving, especially in extreme temperatures.

Optimize your driving mode. The Taycan features multiple driving modes, including ‘Range’ or ‘Efficiency’ modes. Select these modes to prioritize energy conservation by limiting power output and adjusting climate control settings. Understand each mode’s benefits and when to use them.

Monitor your tire pressure. Maintaining the correct tire pressure reduces rolling resistance, improving energy efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, found on the door jamb sticker or in the owner’s manual.

Plan your charging stops. When embarking on longer journeys, plan your charging stops strategically using route planning software. Identify charging stations along your route and factor in the time needed to charge the battery to avoid unnecessary detours or range anxiety.