Porsche has enhanced its flagship 911 Turbo S, with an aim to provide ideal aerodynamic set-up for every driving situation
Porsche Active Aerodynamics (PAA) adapts the aerodynamic characteristics of the vehicle even more precisely to the driving situation, speed and selected driving mode. All model lines from the 718 through to the Panamera and Taycan now feature active aerodynamic elements.
Dr Thomas Wiegand, head of aerodynamics development at Porsche, explained, “No other sports car reacts to different situations with such aerodynamic flexibility. We are normally faced with a dilemma: a low drag coefficient is desirable for maximum speed and low consumption, while a high downforce is advantageous for driving dynamics. However, the two characteristics contradict each other.”
“PAA resolves the conflicts between these different aerodynamic goals. The comprehensive expansion of the intelligent system in the 911 Turbo S makes it possible to achieve a much larger spread between the aerodynamic configurations for optimum driving dynamics and minimum drag,” he added.
The active front spoiler and rear wing have increased the downforce by 15 per cent to guarantee enhanced driving stability and dynamics at higher speeds. The maximum downforce in the performance position is around 170 kg.
The controlled cooling air flaps permit a lower drag reducing fuel consumption. The flaps are located in the right and left air intakes of the front apron. They are continuously adjustable and control the cooling air throughput through the radiators.
The effective aerodynamic area has been increased hence the extension and retraction can take place in a shorter time with lower pressure. Three segments can be inflated separately with the help of actuators. The two outer actuators always function synchronously. The front spoiler is made of a flexible plastic (elastomer) and can therefore be rotated so that the middle segment can be retracted or extended when the outer segments are extended.
The control unit and air compressor are installed at the side of the luggage compartment. The pneumatic module is more compact than on the predecessor and now has three litres more capacity.
Depending on the driving modes, there are now additional positions as well as the familiar Speed and Performance positions. With the wet mode, the focus is on driving stability in wet conditions. The new airbrake function is activated automatically in the event of full braking at high speeds.
