PORSCHE AND AUDI JOIN ELECTRIC FORCES
Porsche and Audi launched a joint electric offensive in 2017, and are now deepening their partnership to develop a pioneering architecture called the Premium Platform Electric (PPE). Project facilities have been established in Ingolstadt and Weissach for the joint undertaking, which will result in three model families. Audi is leading two of the three planned vehicle projects, each of which includes models from both companies, while Porsche leads the remaining project. About 550 Audi developers and 300 from Porsche are currently working on the project, with more being assigned on an ongoing basis. Each developer spends two days a week in attendance at the partner company’s site.
Audi and Porsche are planning for the first models based on the PPE to appear in late 2021. Before that, the Audi e-Tron will make it into production later this year, and the Porsche Mission E in 2019. The PPE architecture is said to be variable enough to accommodate both SUVs and sedans. today, but we believe premium HarleyDavidson electric motorcycles will help drive excitement and participation in the sport globally,” he added. “As we expand our EV capabilities and commitment, we get even more excited about the role electric motorcycles will play in growing our business.” “If we had to tackle the challenges ahead on our own, the costs would be around 30% higher,” said Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG. Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, added: “The PPE is a key piece of the future for us. Thanks to this collaboration, which is unprecedented in the automotive industry, the characteristics, zero emissions, and profitability all add up to an ideal combination. So in this case, 1+1 equals 3.” Harley-Davidson plans to spend $25 million to $50 million per year over the next several years on electric motorcycle technology, with the goal to attract younger buyers to catapult them to the top of the electric motorcycle market, currently led by upstarts like Zero, Energica, and Lightning.