Porsche Cayenne EV: Why Richard Hammond Would Tow a House With It

Porsche’s Electric Cayenne Demonstrates Impressive Towing Capacity

Porsche has unveiled the towing capabilities of its upcoming electric Cayenne, revealing that it can handle the same weight as its traditional combustion-powered counterpart. The vehicle is rated at 7,716 pounds (3,500 kilograms), matching the towing capacity of the gas-powered model. This impressive figure was put to the test by Richard Hammond, a former host of Top Gear and The Grand Tour, who showcased the electric SUV’s ability to tow heavy loads effortlessly.

Hammond was tasked with demonstrating the Cayenne EV’s towing performance during a journey to a hillclimb event in the UK. He attached a heavy-looking early-1900s car on a flatbed to the back of the electric Cayenne and drove it through various challenging roads. While the exact weight of the car and trailer combination wasn’t disclosed, it is believed to be near the maximum towing limit of the vehicle.

In a DriveTribe video, Hammond showcased the Cayenne EV’s performance on typical British backroads, which often feature steep inclines, sharp turns, and downhill sections. These conditions demand a powerful and agile powertrain, and Hammond noted that the Cayenne’s performance made him forget he was towing such a heavy load. His experience highlighted the vehicle’s strength and handling, even under demanding circumstances.

Although Porsche hasn’t provided specific details about the power output of the new electric Cayenne, it has stated that the EV will match the performance of the current range-topping combustion variant, the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid. This model features a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with an electric motor, delivering 729 horsepower and 700 pound-feet (950 Nm) of torque.

The Cayenne Coupe equipped with this powertrain can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, but the electric version is expected to be even faster. Porsche has indicated that the new EV will be “at least” as powerful as its internal combustion counterpart, which will continue to be available alongside the electric model. Based on Hammond’s observations and his knowledge of the Taycan’s performance, it’s possible that the electric Cayenne could have a four-figure peak power rating.

Key Features of the Electric Cayenne

• Towing Capacity: Matches the 7,716-pound (3,500 kg) rating of the combustion variant.
• Powertrain: Expected to be at least as powerful as the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid.
• Performance: Likely quicker than the Cayenne Coupe, which can reach 60 mph in 3.5 seconds.
• Handling: Demonstrated agility and power on challenging British roads.

The electric Cayenne represents a significant step forward for Porsche, combining the brand’s heritage of performance with the benefits of electric propulsion. With its strong towing capabilities and potential for high performance, the vehicle is set to appeal to both traditionalists and those looking for a more sustainable option. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Porsche’s electric Cayenne is poised to make a strong impact in the luxury SUV market.