Owners of 2020 Porsche Taycan electric vehicles are about to get faster cars. Porsche is pushing out a software update that, among other things, improves the Taycan’s already-blistering acceleration. It also adds wireless Apple CarPlay, and lets owners change ambient lighting to suit the music playing in their cars.
The update doesn’t apply to 2021 Taycan models because they already come with most of these enhancements.
The software update optimizes the slip control software which, Porsche says, should cut the 0-to-124 mph time for Turbo S models by 0.2 seconds. The transmission control unit will also receive updates, though it isn’t clear whether that will have a measurable impact on performance.
The update also enhances the navigation system, improving search functionality and adding traffic data. It includes the all-in-one Porsche Charging Service that lets owners locate charging stations and pay for charging directly from the car. Owners can also choose to downgrade the maximum charging speed from 270 kilowatts to 200 kW, which may prolong battery life.
Porsche Functions on Demand
The update also includes Porsche’s new Functions on Demand system, which lets owners unlock additional features for their car after purchase, such as Power Steering Plus, Porsche InnoDrive, Active Lane Keep Assist, and more. These can be paid for upfront or with a monthly subscription fee – a model we’re seeing more manufacturers embrace. Drivers who choose the monthly subscription option can take advantage of a 3-month trial.
The update isn’t an over-the-air software patch, so owners will have to arrange to bring their Taycan into the dealership to receive the full package of enhancements. But it is free of charge.
