Sime Darby Auto Performance pioneered the electric performance vehicle segment in Malaysia when they introduced the Taycan models way back in September 2020. Now the company is continuing with that pioneering spirit by showcasing the long distance driving capabilities of these cars together with the Porsche-Shell High Performance Charging (HPC) network.
An all-female group took two Taycans (the Taycan Turbo S and the Taycan Cross Turismo) from JB to Penang recently for a 12-hour, emissions-free expedition across the country. The group consisted of race driver Leona Chin, fashion designer Celest Thoi, restaurateur Jen Tang, jewelry designer Yinn Ooi and content creator Beng Lim.
The trip took them across the North-South Expressway (PLUS), through parallel trunk roads and seven states on the peninsular. The Taycan was the perfect vehicle for the job and well-suited to long distance driving especially after the 2022 software updates, which boosts range by intelligently decoupling the front electric motor.
The Journey Begins In Johor
The group set off from Johor beginning along the long, straight roads of the North-South Expressway, embracing the smooth ride of the remarkable Taycan. All the while, tunes flowed through the Porsche Communication Management system’s seamless Spotify & Apple Music integration.
The first stop at Shell Recharge Pagoh with the Porsche-Shell High Performance Charging (HPC) network allowed the cars to gain over 100km of range in just 10 minutes. This is thanks to the 800 volt system of the Taycan, which can take the battery from 5% to 80% in just 22.5 minutes.
The road trip led the group into the mesmerizing Titiwangsa mountain range, also known as the “spine of peninsular Malaysia.” Guided by the Porsche Connect app and Apple CarPlay, they navigated through enchanting routes, fostering camaraderie and drawing inspiration from like-minded individuals with ambitious dreams.
Tomorrow’s Sports Car within Melaka’s Old-World Charm
Although the Taycans offered ample range for the onward journey, it was time for the group itself to recharge. The former Straits Settlement of Melaka beckoned with its captivating historical architecture and renowned Peranakan cuisine. Navigating through traffic via Ayer Keroh, the two Taycans gracefully made their way to Jonker Street, eventually finding coveted parking spaces in front of Casa Del Rio Melaka.
Reluctantly bidding farewell to the “Venice of the East,” the group made a brief stop at Shell Seremban before rejoining the North-South highway for the longest stretch of the journey, traversing Kuala Lumpur and reaching Perak in the North.
Cruise in Unmatched Comfort through KL with the Taycan
Enveloped in the luxurious Taycan Cross Turismo, the passengers marveled at the Twin Towers and other towering skyscrapers through the panoramic roof. Abundant headroom and a capacious luggage compartment, offering over 1,200 liters of space, ensured maximum comfort and convenience. In the blink of an eye, the cityscape faded into the distance.
Passing by the famous Ipoh signage on the highway, the cars made their final charging stop at Shell Simpang Pulai. Refreshing iced lattes provided respite from the warm weather before they embarked on the last leg of the journey through Perak. Majestic limestone formations adorned the winding roads, allowing the two Taycans to flaunt their remarkable driving dynamics and sportiness.
The Homestretch: A Spectacular Finale
As the journey neared its conclusion, the Taycans gracefully crossed the iconic Penang Bridge, with the Andaman Sea glistening beneath the night sky. It was a breathtaking culmination of the cross-country odyssey in the awe-inspiring Taycan Turbo S and Taycan Cross Turismo. Cherished memories were forged, and dreams were shared, affirming that the first all-electric Porsche transcends being a mere road trip companion—it is a soulful and electrifying sports car.
