Porsche Mission R: 1,073 horsepower without a drop of gas
Porsche has a lot of experience in car racing, and the manufacturer has long produced racing cars designed specifically for its customers. Just think of its Cup models, which are currently racing in more than 30 racing series around the world. With the Mission R concept, Porsche clearly shows us where the future of its competition cars is going.
Unveiled as part of the IAA event in Munich, Germany, the Mission R is still only at the prototype stage, but Porsche confirmed that it will continue to develop it at its testing centers until something similar is produced in the future. Porsche says it won’t be until 2025 or 2026 that a production vehicle follows this concept.
Of the same size as a Porsche 718 Cayman, the Mission R is not inspired by an existing model at Porsche. It is entirely unique and is based on a dedicated platform incorporating state-of-the-art safety elements, such as a protective cage integrated into the structure of the vehicle. Made mainly of carbon fiber composite, this cage is also visible through the roof of the vehicle to demonstrate innovation, but also to model an exoskeleton.
Race mode, or qualifying mode?
Under the Mission R’s ultra-light body hides a battery with a capacity of 80 kilowatt hours to power two electric motors, one on each train. The front engine produces 429 horsepower, and the rear motor produces 644 horsepower, for a combined total power of 1,073 horsepower, but only when the vehicle is set to Qualifying mode.
In fact, two modes are offered in order to grant the vehicle greater autonomy. As the qualifying sessions are usually shorter, the pilot will be able to maximize the power available in order to achieve a faster lap. In this mode, the Mission R can sprint from 0 to 100 km / hour below 2.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 300 km / hour.
During the event, when the vehicle is set to Race mode, the Mission R develops a combined total power of 671 horsepower. According to Porsche, the Mission R can run at full speed in this mode for 30 to 45 minutes.
The Mission R takes fast charging even further by incorporating an internal charging system with a capacity of 900 volts, which surpasses that of the Taycan with its 800 volts. This system would allow Mission R to replenish its battery from 5 to 80% in just 15 minutes, provided it uses a compatible terminal.
A bit like the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, the idea behind the Mission R is to provide consumers with a racing car ready to compete in various competitive events. Its interior is designed solely for racing, and every stylistic and mechanical detail allows the vehicle to perform better on a closed circuit. It would also come as no surprise to see some of the Mission R technology appear on the next-generation Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman, which will likely have their electric version.
