When it comes to performance electric vehicles (EVs), the Tesla Model S Plaid and the Porsche Taycan GTS are two of the most prominent contenders in the market. Both vehicles offer impressive power and acceleration, but they differ in terms of handling and driving dynamics. In this article, we will delve into the slalom and moose tests conducted by km77 to compare the performance of these two EVs and explore their strengths and weaknesses. While the Porsche Taycan GTS showcases exceptional handling capabilities, the Tesla Model S Plaid stands out with its one-pedal driving feature. Let’s dive into the details and see how these two EVs stack up against each other.
Slalom Test: Precision and Control
In the slalom test, the Porsche Taycan GTS demonstrates its prowess in handling and control. As it weaves through cones, the Taycan GTS exhibits no signs of understeer or oversteer, maintaining complete control throughout the course. The torque vectoring system in the Porsche ensures that power is distributed effectively to navigate corners with ease. On the other hand, the Tesla Model S Plaid appears slightly more stressed during the slalom test. Its suspension seems less composed, resulting in tire screeching and noticeable body roll. Despite these differences, the Model S Plaid only falls short of the Taycan GTS by a mere 0.03 seconds in the slalom test.
Moose Test: Swift Maneuverability
The moose test evaluates a car’s composure during sudden swerves without any brake application. In terms of entry speed, the Tesla Model S Plaid surpasses the Porsche Taycan GTS. The Model S Plaid achieves a higher entry speed of 82 km/h and exits at 46 km/h, while the Taycan GTS enters at 78 km/h and exits at 51 km/h. Both vehicles exhibit impressive stability throughout the test, with the Model S Plaid regaining traction slightly less adeptly after the initial swerve. This is where Porsche’s traction management systems shine, showcasing the brand’s commitment to handling and driveability. The Model S Plaid’s one-pedal driving feature plays a crucial role in its performance during emergency maneuvers, automatically initiating braking as soon as pressure is lifted off the accelerator.
Regenerative Braking: A Tale of Two Approaches
The disparity in results between the two EVs can be attributed to their different approaches to regenerative braking. The Tesla Model S Plaid immediately engages regenerative braking when the accelerator pedal is released, allowing for efficient energy regeneration. In contrast, Porsche has chosen to incorporate regenerative braking into the brake pedal, aiming to replicate the driving dynamics of their traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. Although Porsche’s regenerative braking technology can regenerate up to 250 kW of energy during hard braking, Tesla’s estimated regenerative braking capacity is 90 kW. This difference highlights the advantages of Tesla’s one-pedal driving system, providing enhanced safety during emergency situations.
The Advantages and Disadvantages
Km77’s tests shed light on the strengths and weaknesses of both the Porsche Taycan GTS and the Tesla Model S Plaid. The Porsche exhibits superior handling and control in the slalom test, showcasing its commitment to precision and performance. However, the Tesla Model S Plaid’s one-pedal driving system provides an edge in emergency maneuvers, ensuring the vehicle automatically initiates braking when necessary. While the Taycan GTS may handle more confidently, the Tesla Model S Plaid offers a higher level of safety in unexpected situations. Porsche may need to reconsider its efficiency-based approach to one-pedal driving, as Tesla’s system proves advantageous in terms of safety.
Conclusion
In the battle of performance EVs, the Porsche Taycan GTS and the Tesla Model S Plaid showcase their unique strengths and weaknesses. The Taycan GTS impresses with its exceptional handling and driveability, while the Model S Plaid stands out with its one-pedal driving system, providing enhanced safety during emergency maneuvers. Ultimately, the choice between these two vehicles depends on individual preferences and priorities. Whether you prioritize precision and control or the convenience of one-pedal driving, both the Porsche Taycan GTS and the Tesla Model S Plaid offer exhilarating driving experiences in the world of electric performance cars.