Porsche Revolutionizes Electric All-Wheel Drive with Advanced ePTM System

Porsche is enhancing its electric vehicle performance with the sophisticated electronically controlled Porsche Traction Management (ePTM) system. This innovative technology, building on a legacy of all-wheel-drive expertise dating back over a century, ensures optimal power distribution for superior driving dynamics, safety, and efficiency in its electric models.

Key Takeaways

• Porsche's ePTM system offers significantly faster response times compared to conventional all-wheel-drive systems.

• The system intelligently adapts power distribution based on driving modes for optimized efficiency or traction.

• ePTM integrates seamlessly with other advanced chassis technologies like PTV Plus and PASM for an enhanced driving experience.

The Evolution of Porsche Traction Management

Porsche's commitment to all-wheel-drive technology spans over 125 years, with its modern iteration, Porsche Traction Management (PTM), refined over the last four decades. PTM is designed to intelligently distribute drive torque to the wheels that require it most, enhancing driving dynamics, safety, and overall driving pleasure. This system dynamically adjusts torque distribution based on real-time driving conditions, such as changes in axle load during cornering or uphill driving, to maximize tire grip and performance.

Introducing the Electronically Controlled ePTM

For its electric models, Porsche has reimagined PTM as the electronically controlled Porsche Traction Management (ePTM). This advanced system utilizes power electronics to individually control the two electric motors in all-wheel-drive Macan models in near real-time. The ePTM boasts a reaction time approximately five times faster than traditional part-time all-wheel-drive systems, capable of responding to wheel slip within a mere 10 milliseconds.

Driving Modes and Enhanced Dynamics

The ePTM system's behavior is tailored to different driving modes:

• Normal Mode: Prioritizes efficiency and range by utilizing rear-wheel drive as much as possible.

• Sport and Sport Plus Modes: Focus on optimal traction, engaging the front axle drive more frequently.

• Offroad Mode: Activates all-wheel drive with specific off-road settings, including a virtual longitudinal lock to limit differential speed between axles for improved traction. The ride height is also adjusted for challenging terrain.

In performance-oriented models like the Macan Turbo, ePTM is complemented by Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus), an electronically controlled rear-axle differential lock, further enhancing traction, stability, and lateral dynamics. Macan models equipped with air suspension also feature Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), an electronic damper control system that offers a wider range of adjustments between comfort and performance, ensuring a refined ride across various surfaces.