Formula E is gearing up for changes in 2024, including a new safety car support. Porsche’s latest Taycan Turbo GT will take on safety car duties starting at the upcoming double header in Berlin, boasting more than twice the horsepower of the single-seat racers.
The Turbo GT, the flagship of the Taycan range, surpasses the previous safety car, the Turbo S, which generated up to 751 hp (761 PS / 560 kW) during overboost. The Turbo S has since been upgraded to 764 hp (775 PS / 570 kW) in normal driving, with overboost temporarily providing 939 hp (952 PS / 700 kW).
In comparison, the Taycan Turbo GT delivers 777 hp (580 kW / 789 PS) in its default configuration, and up to 1,019 hp (1,034 PS / 760 kW) for 10-second bursts when the Attack Mode is activated. This feature can be triggered by pressing a switch beside the steering wheel or pulling the right-hand shift paddle.
Porsche notes that the Attack Mode is inspired by the system used in the brand’s 99X Formula E racers, although the Turbo GT significantly outperforms the single-seaters. Formula E Gen3 cars typically generate up to 402 hp (408 PS / 300 kW), with a boost to 469 hp (476 PS / 350 kW) in Attack Mode for the final stage of a race.
While the racers are notably lighter, weighing around 1,852 lbs (840 kg) with the driver compared to the Turbo GT’s 5,050 lbs (2,290 kg) without the driver, the sedan’s optional Weissach package enhances aerodynamics and reduces weight by removing some sound insulation and rear seats.
Porsche will provide two different safety cars: one in Purple Sky Metallic with the Weissach kit, and the other a full four-seater without the kit, finished in Shade Green metallic. Both cars will feature warning lights, fire extinguishers, and communications equipment, with only one car on track at a time.
This season introduces the Attack Charge, originally slated for last year, with a faster Gen3 Evo car expected next season before the all-new Gen4 racers debut on the track in 2026.
