Self-adjusting driver tech
Porsche’s new Panamera won’t drive, or steer itself, because that would just be wrong.
But it does offer the latest and greatest in technological driver aids, thanks to a system called InnoDrive.
Using a combination of GPS and mapping data - including topographical features - combined with traffic information and onboard sensors, the car scans the next three kilometres of road it is about to cover, while you’re in Active Cruise mode, and adapts its suspension systems and gear selections in advance to give you the most comfortable experience.
The PID (Porsche InnoDrive) can also ‘‘read’’ speed signs as you approach towns, and adjust its speed automatically, to save you stress, and unnecessary stalkfiddling.
However for this part of the world, it’s already been ruled out in Australia - for the moment.
‘‘There simply isn’t the infrastructure to support it,’’ Porsche Australia spokesman Paul Ellis says, adding that they would love to be able to offer it.
This is because of a lack of the traffic information systems, or the topographical information that motorists in Europe have access to.
‘‘Australia is working on it. Car manufacturers here are working on it, the group brands are working on it together.’’
‘‘There simply isn't the infrastructure to support it.’’