2023-07-19 -- Porsche

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As I pondered my next adventure, a friend's passion for Porsche(1) ignited a spark within me.


Porsche, a name synonymous with automotive excellence, has captured hearts and minds worldwide. While the brand has adapted to modern markets with SUVs and sedans, the iconic 911(2) remains its timeless symbol.

Porsche's journey began with a surprising twist: its first creation wasn't a Porsche at all, but rather a Volkswagen. As part of Nazi Germany's ambitious plan to motorize the nation, Porsche was tasked with designing the "People's Car." This endeavor laid the foundation for the legendary Beetle(3).

While the Volkswagen project was underway, Ferdinand Porsche and his son, Ferry, were busy working on their own dream: a sports car. The result was the Porsche 64(4), a groundbreaking vehicle that would eventually evolve into the iconic 911.





Before the advent of turn signals, a simple metal flag mounted on the B-pillar was a driver's way of indicating a turn.



Porsche 64

The dream of a car for the people was abruptly halted by the demands of war. As Germany's focus shifted to military production, both Volkswagen and Porsche were forced to contribute to the Nazi war machine. The once-promising vision of affordable automobiles was replaced by the grim reality of tanks and weaponry.

By the end of World War II, both companies fell under British control, marking a turning point in their history.





The dark side of Porsche's history, often overlooked, is the company's use of forced labor during World War II. Thousands of prisoners, many from Poland, were forced to work in Porsche's factories under brutal conditions. This chapter in the company's history is a stark reminder of the human cost of war.(5)

Despite this troubling past, Porsche has a rich history of innovation and engineering excellence. Before the official founding of the company in the 1930s, Ferdinand Porsche and his family had already made significant contributions to the automotive industry. One of their most notable achievements was the creation of the Egger-Lohner C.2 Phaeton(6), the world's first electric car. This groundbreaking vehicle showcased Porsche's early commitment to sustainable mobility, long before it became a mainstream concern.


The first ever EV

Before Porsche's iconic "name and logo", a fascinating array of vehicles paved the way for its innovation.






Pixar's(7) "Cars(8)" franchise has played a significant role in introducing a younger generation to the iconic Porsche brand. Characters like Sally Carrera have helped shape a new perception of Porsche among children.




Porsche's legacy is intertwined with a rich history of motorsport dominance. From the grueling Dakar Rally to the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, Porsche has consistently pushed the boundaries of performance and engineering. Their countless victories and podium finishes have solidified their reputation as one of the most successful racing brands in the world.













Porsche, once a niche sports car manufacturer, has masterfully adapted to the changing automotive landscape.

By venturing into the SUV segment with models like the Cayenne and Macan, Porsche has not only secured its financial future but also attracted a new generation of customers.

As part of the Volkswagen Group (Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, Skoda, Seat, Copra, Lamborghini, Bentley, and Bugatti) Porsche benefits from a vast network of resources, shared technology, and economies of scale. This strategic partnership allows Porsche to continue pushing the boundaries of performance and luxury, while maintaining its iconic brand identity.








Despite the nostalgic allure of roaring engines, Volkswagen Group, including Porsche, is leading the charge towards a quieter, cleaner future. While many enthusiasts cling to the past, the future of mobility is electric. Porsche, once synonymous with high-revving engines, is now at the forefront of electric vehicle technology, offering a glimpse into a future where silence and sustainability coexist.





Fear not, fellow petrolheads! For those of us who refuse to grow up, there will always be gas-guzzling machines to satisfy our need for speed and noise. As long as our wallets can keep up, the roar of the engine will continue.


 


Ever wondered what the birthplace of automotive legends looks like? I've got a treat for you! Dive into the world of Porsche with a visual journey through the Porsche Museum(9) in Stuttgart.
























Comments

  1. Anonymous18 July, 2023

    Electric Porsches will never have the visceral experience one feels when hearing, smelling and driving an air cooled Porsche of 1970s, 80s, and 90s. Even if Porsche made an electric car that goes 0-60 mph in 0.5 seconds, I’ll rather take a 1998 Porsche 911 C2S model over a driving battery operated computer any day or the week and of course, twice on Sundays.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. B19 July, 2023

      Human experience changes. There are still many people who prefer horses, over cars, or even strangely enough, to me of course, my paternal grandfather hated any cars and busses and used to walk tens of kilometers everyday to no to take a bus or hire a taxi. New generation according to statistics, do not even want to get drivers license, yet driving a car, and they spend most of time in any mode of transportation on their phone watching the life go by two minutes at a time! But I get it. I love the sound of a V8 or V12. But at what cost? to us and others.

      Delete
  2. B31 July, 2023

    I have to say I am really happy to get this from Porsche Museum:

    It's always great to see how much passion and commitment people have for the Porsche brand - all over the world. You can still marvel at the impressive special exhibition 75 Years of Porsche Sports Cars with us until January 7, 2024. We are already looking forward to your next visit with us at the Porsche Museum.

    Many greetings from the Porsche Museum and a good week to you.

    Hope to hear all my friends have visited the museum by Jan 7, 2024. But better late than never, if you can't.

    ReplyDelete
  3. B31 July, 2023

    I also got this from Porsche Cars North America:

    Thank you for your support and also for giving us the chance to read your article. I have forwarded your link to our content spokesperson for visibility. If we need anything additional from you we will contact you.



    As a fellow writer I invite you to visit our official media outlet, the Porsche Newsroom. Visit the link below to find all relevant Porsche information, you may find an article that peaks your interest. https://newsroom.porsche.com/en_US.html



    If you ever need assistance or have concerns, please feel free to email customersupport@porsche.com or call 1-800-PORSCHE. We are available Monday to Friday from 8AM until 10PM and Saturday from 8AM until 8PM EST.

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