Bangkok – AutoApp Dev https://www.autoapp.sg/dev Mon, 16 Dec 2024 13:17:52 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 First Drive – Porsche Macan Turbo https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=280148 Mon, 16 Dec 2024 13:17:52 +0000 https://www.autoapp.sg/?p=280148 The new electric Porsche Macan Turbo is a ferocious piece of engineering.


I was recently in Thailand to attend Das Treffen 9, and Porsche Thailand has very kindly provided me a car to get around Bangkok. 

To my delight, they tossed me the keys to the new electric Macan Turbo. Having driven The Macan 4 earlier this year, I was eager to have a go in the torque monster.

Power Unleashed

Let’s start with the numbers because they are nothing short of staggering. The Macan Turbo boasts a dual-motor powertrain that delivers 630hp and a frankly ludicrous 1,130Nm of torque.

To put that into context, this is an SUV that can launch itself from 0 to 100km/h in a blistering 3.1 seconds. A figure that could make even some 911s blush.

While the absence of a growling combustion engine might seem like a loss to purists, the instant surge of silent power gives you something arguably even more addictive: unrelenting, whisper-quiet thrust.

The acceleration is visceral. Tap the throttle, and you’re pinned back into the seat, the Macan translating electrons into unrelenting momentum. There’s a sense of precision in how it delivers this performance – controlled, deliberate, and utterly captivating.

Going The Distance

Porsche has packed the Macan Turbo with a 100kWh battery, which promises a range of up to 590km.

Even with lots of enthusiastic pedal pressing, I still managed about 447km of range, which is very respectable for something that sits pretty at 180km/h.

Supporting up to 270 kW DC fast charging, the battery can be juiced from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes. Perfect for a quick coffee stop before you hit the road again.

The Macan doesn’t make you feel like you’re driving an EV; it makes you feel like you’re driving a Porsche. And therein lies its magic.

Defying The Laws Of Physics

At over 2,405kg, the Macan Turbo Electric is no lightweight, but you wouldn’t know it once you’re on the move.

This is where Porsche’s decades of engineering prowess shine through. The Macan feels impossibly nimble for something of its size and weight, carving corners with the agility of a car half its bulk.

The adaptive air suspension works like a charm, smoothing out imperfections while keeping the car flat and composed in spirited driving. Every turn of the wheel inspires confidence, every corner an invitation to push harder.

The Lap Of Luxury

Stepping into the Macan Turbo’s cabin is akin to entering a high-tech lounge. Dominating the dashboard is a 12.6-inch curved digital instrument cluster, flanked by a 10.9-inch central touchscreen.

For those in the passenger seat, an optional display offers control over entertainment and navigation.

The materials are as luxurious as you’d expect: soft-touch leather, brushed aluminium, and fine detailing. Even the colour matches the Provence coat on the outside.

Electrifying

The Porsche Macan Turbo is a redefinition of what an SUV can be in the electric era. It’s fast, luxurious, and dynamically engaging.

A car that reminds you why we drive, even in a world that’s going green.

Technical Specifications

Porsche Macan Turbo

Powertrain: Dual Electric Motors, All-Wheel Drive
Power: 430kW (576hp)
Torque: 1,130Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 3.3 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 260km/h
Battery Capacity: 100kWh
Drive Range: 590km (claimed)

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)


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On The Ground: Das Treffen 9 https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=280131 Mon, 16 Dec 2024 13:03:32 +0000 https://www.autoapp.sg/?p=280131 Each December, Porsche enthusiasts from across Southeast Asia make a pilgrimage to the ultimate celebration of all things Porsche: Das Treffen 9.


The ninth instalment of this iconic event, held on 17 December 2024, turned Impact Speedway into a dazzling showcase of automotive passion.

This year’s theme, “Limited Edition,” encapsulated the exclusivity and individuality that defines Porsche ownership.

A Gathering of Kindred Spirits

Das Treffen 9

Upon arrival, one could immediately sense the electric atmosphere. Hundreds of Porsches from rare classics to cutting-edge modern marvels lined the venue, each either meticulously polished to perfection or caked with dirt, battle scars from their journey to Bangkok.

If you were curious, a total of 627 cars showed up and more than 3,050 Porsche enthusiasts attended. No wonder our shirt sizes were quickly sold out.

Das Treffen 9

Das Treffen is predominantly a community event, a place where owners and admirers bonded over their shared obsession.

Enthusiasts from neighbouring countries added an international flair, bringing a fascinating diversity to the mix.

Das Treffen 9

It’s always heartwarming to witness how cars can transcend borders and connect people. Das Treffen 9 nailed this effortlessly, with cars donning different license plates parked side by side.

Doesn’t matter which country you’re from, as long as it’s a Porsche.

Highlights That Stole the Show

Das Treffen 9

The organisers didn’t just rely on the cars themselves to make an impact. Each zone at the event was a carefully crafted tribute to Porsche’s heritage and innovation, offering attendees something truly unique.

Adding a dash of artistic flair to the proceedings was Landmark No. 9, a striking installation art piece that served as both a vibrant photo backdrop and a bold statement of creativity.

Das Treffen 9

Meanwhile, the Gymkhana Zone turned up the adrenaline, as drivers manoeuvred their own cars through timed challenges with precision and skill.

The Human Touch

Porsche Thailand

What sets Das Treffen apart is its ability to marry the automotive with the personal. The Rooftop Lounge at Porsche HQ, an elegant two-story container setup, provided guests with a sophisticated vantage point to soak in the sights.

From here, the sprawling rows of Porsches shimmered in the late afternoon sun, a sight that would make any car enthusiast’s heart race.

Das Treffen 9

This year’s collaboration between 2000 Publishing & Media Co., Ltd. and Porsche Thailand by AAS Group ensured every detail was thoughtfully executed.

No event is perfect, and Das Treffen 9 had its minor hiccups. The sheer scale of the event meant that navigating through the crowd could be challenging at times.

Additionally, while the Landmark No. 9 installation was impressive, more “photo booth” locations could be curated to spread out the queues of Porsche lining up for a shot.

Das Treffen 9 Curvistan

That said, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise exceptional event.

Driven By Dreams

Das Treffen 9 was everything a Porsche enthusiast could hope for and more. It celebrated the marque’s storied legacy while looking ahead to its exciting future.

Whether you’re a die-hard Porsche purist or a casual admirer, this event had something to captivate every kind of car lover, and exactly what makes Porsche and its community so special.

Das Treffen 9

Here’s to Das Treffen 10; it’ll have a tough act to follow.


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Das Treffen 9: A Porsche Enthusiast’s Dream Returns to Bangkok https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=279414 Tue, 03 Dec 2024 06:23:07 +0000 https://www.autoapp.sg/?p=279414 On 15 December 2024, Southeast Asia’s most anticipated Porsche gathering, Das Treffen, is making its triumphant return to the Impact Speedpark in Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok.


With the theme ‘Limited Edition’ promising an unparalleled showcase of some of the rarest Porsche sports cars ever made, this event is a must-see for car enthusiasts.

What began as an intimate meet-up between friends, organised by Sihabutr Xoomsai, fondly known as Tenn, has evolved into a full-blown festival that places Thailand firmly on the global Porsche map.

This evolution has brought remarkable milestones, including the opening of the Porsche Design Tower Bangkok and Curvistan Bangkok.

The theme for this year’s event, ‘Limited Edition’, promises a line-up of rare vintage and modern Porsches. Expect to see icons like the original 911 Turbo, the race-winning 911 R, the cutting-edge 918 Spyder, and the latest creation from Weissach, the 911 S/T.

Adding to the excitement is the Taycan Turbo S Celestial Jade. A one-of-a-kind unit from Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur’s Sonderwunsch department, it pays homage to Southeast Asia’s rich heritage with its Chromaflair paintwork.

This year’s event introduces the Porsche Village, a two-storey open-air pavilion offering sweeping views of the car display area. Guests can indulge in the #Raceborn tent, featuring legendary race cars, or visit the Curvistan booth for an immersive cultural experience.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a celebration without food trucks and a DJ setting the vibe into the night.

To mark the 50th anniversary of the 911 Turbo, special event merchandise will be available, including a stylised ‘9’ logo resembling a turbocharger. Even the event’s banner, adorned in Porsche’s new ‘Turbonite’ hue, pays homage to this milestone.

The event will run from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and entry is free for all. Porsche owners are invited to park their vehicles inside the karting circuit, while other cars will have nearby parking options.


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New ‘Porsche Unseen Design Studies’ Exhibition Launched At Curvistan Bangkok https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=279363 Mon, 02 Dec 2024 14:45:39 +0000 https://www.autoapp.sg/?p=279363 Deep in the heart of Bangkok lies a haven for petrolheads – Curvistan Bangkok.


This season, the concept space is turning heads once more with the launch of the highly anticipated “Porsche Unseen Design Studies” exhibition.

For over two decades, Porsche’s Michael Mauer has been at the helm, steering the brand’s aesthetic evolution from the Porsche Design Studio in Weissach. Known for pushing boundaries, Mauer’s visionary concepts have remained tantalisingly out of reach until now. 

This exhibition brings together a treasure trove of Porsche’s secretive design prototypes, offering visitors a rare peek into the brand’s experimental side.

One standout star is the Vision Spyder, a modern ode to the minimalist design of the 1950s Porsche 550 Spyder. With its spartan cockpit, retro red racing stripes, and aerodynamic fins, it exudes both nostalgia and forward-thinking design.

Visitors to Curvistan will be treated to a sneak preview of the one-off Taycan Turbo S Celestial Jade. Before its official unveiling in Thailand, this bespoke model, created through Porsche’s Sonderwunsch programme, dazzles with its light-shifting Chromaflair pigment and Southeast Asian-inspired accents.

The “Porsche Unseen” collection includes 1:3 scale models of experimental concepts like the Macan Vision Safari, an off-road reinterpretation of the popular SUV, and the Vision E, a Formula E-inspired design.

Curvistan’s mastermind, Stefan Bogner, the creative force behind Curves Magazine, couldn’t be prouder. “The ‘Porsche Unseen’ collection was one of the most fulfilling projects I’ve ever done,” Bogner shares.

“Bringing it to Curvistan Bangkok is a dream come true. We hope design fans, Porsche fans, and car enthusiasts from Thailand and beyond make Curvistan a must-visit on their next trip to Bangkok.”

Curvistan is no stranger to creating immersive experiences. From its beginnings in Munich to stints in Singapore and now Bangkok, it’s a space that celebrates the intersection of art, culture, and automotive excellence.

Running until 28 February 2025, the exhibition is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with free entry.


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Curvistan Opens New Location In Bangkok https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=277060 Fri, 30 Aug 2024 07:36:27 +0000 https://www.autoapp.sg/?p=277060 Curvistan recently had its grand opening on 28 August 2024, at its new Sukhumvit 38 location in Bangkok.


This dynamic venue merges the worlds of car culture, art, and design into a unique space that serves as a bar, café, art gallery, and social hub, perfect for the Porsche community and beyond.

In the heart of Southeast Asia, Curvistan Bangkok is the brainchild of Stefan Bogner, the creative force behind the globally celebrated Curves magazine, and Chanond Ruangkritya, a visionary entrepreneur and passionate Porsche enthusiast.

Together, they’ve crafted a space that promises an unparalleled experience for car lovers, particularly those with a soft spot for Porsche. The venue, conveniently located next to the BTS Thonglor Skytrain station, is set to become Bangkok’s latest hotspot for enthusiasts who appreciate both high-octane drives and high art.

Stefan Bogner, known for his stunning photography, design prowess, and deep-rooted love for Porsche, is the mastermind behind Curvistan. As the publisher of ‘Curves,’ a magazine that captures the essence of the journey, blending the beauty of nature with the thrill of motion, Bogner’s vision found a kindred spirit in Chanond.

The CEO of a leading Thai real estate company, Chanond has long dreamed of creating a Porsche clubhouse in Bangkok. With the opening of Curvistan, that dream is now a reality.

“It’s an open space where the Porsche community can connect, share their passion, and bring their dreams to life,” said Stefan Bogner, Founder and Creative Director of Curves Magazine.

“Curvistan is a unique blend; a coffee shop, automotive gallery, art space, and concept store all rolled into one. Every element works in harmony, thanks to collaborations with top local curators. I’m thrilled to see Curvistan reach another milestone in this prime Bangkok location.”

Backed by Porsche Thailand and Porsche Asia Pacific, Curvistan arrives on the heels of exciting developments in the Kingdom. The two organisations recently launched the regionally-assembled Cayenne S E-Hybrid Coupe in Thailand, offering fans an elevated product at a competitive price.

As first deliveries begin, Porsche Thailand is also gearing up to open three new dealerships in Bangkok, further expanding the Porsche family in Thailand. The aim is to grow the community, connecting like-minded individuals who can share their stories and enjoy their Porsche sports cars together.

Curvistan’s unique vibe is amplified by partnerships with leading local lifestyle and design brands such as Das Treffen, Socrates Delicious Syrup Company, IMPACT Exhibition Management, and VITRA.

The gallery will showcase rotating exhibitions drawn from the Porsche universe, with a new collection every two to three months. The inaugural exhibition, “Porsche: A Design Manifesto,” delves into the holistic design philosophy that defines the Porsche brand, spanning everything from sports cars and watches to sunglasses and skyscrapers.

Curvistan Bangkok will be open daily from 7 am to midnight, with the exhibition area accessible from 7 am to 6 pm. For more information and updates, follow Curvistan Bangkok on Facebook and Instagram.


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