2025 Porsche Macan EV initially delayed by software issues

Software has proved a development challenge for the all-new 2025 Porsche Macan EV that’s due to hit the road in Australia late this year, but it could also add to the future smarts and functionality of what is shaping up to be one of the most advanced Porsche models ever.

With five major computer processors as part of its high-tech digital brain, the new all-electric Macan caused headaches during development that prompted a setback in the planned on-sale date.

Speaking at the Australian reveal of the new mid-size SUV that is taking the EV fight to rivals such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi, Porsche AG director of body system for the new Macan, Stephan Lenschow, opened up about the challenges of getting the 1s and 0s to co-operate.

“We had a lot of problems with software,” said Lenschow, adding that everything was fixed now.

“We have a completely new electrical architecture so that is always a challenge.

“We had a lot of problems with software.”

Lenschow added that the introduction of a new architecture, body and drive system added to the complexity of developing the second generation of the brand’s top-selling model.

And computer processing power is at the new Macan’s heart.

“We have more or less … five big [computer] processors [in the new Macan],” he said.

The new Macan is also the first Porsche to switch to the Android Automotive operating system.

Different to the Android Auto smartphone connectivity system – Android Automotive is the back-end hardware on which manufacturers can tailor their own functionality – it has the potential to control all electrical systems in the car.

In the Macan, the Google-based system – which incorporates Google Maps and gives access to the Play Store – is only looking after infotainment.

However, customers will be able to download approved third-party apps, potentially adding to the functionality of the car with everything from games to apps that enrich the driving experience or others that are more about fun and entertainment.

As a start, Lenschow says the company is planning a Sport Chrono app.

While details are yet to be announced, he said one of its features would allow the ability to compare driving data with others.

“In the Sport Chrono app we have ideas you could have comparisons with other drivers,” he said.

Lenschow also said there would be a Porsche-specific mapping app that would allow route planning, describing it as “an app that’s based on GPS routes so you can find nice roads around the world”.

While Porsche has embarked on an Australian roadshow with three left-hand drive versions of the new Macan, customer deliveries will kick off late in 2024.

The electric Macan will initially be offered in two dual-motor guises: the Macan 4 (priced from $133,100 plus on-road costs) and the more powerful Macan Turbo (from $179,500 plus ORCs).

The Macan 4 produces 300kW/560Nm and can dash from 0-100km/h in 5.2 seconds.

The Macan Turbo punches out 470kW/1130Nm and can hit 100km/h in just 3.3 seconds, setting a new benchmark for mid-size SUVs.

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