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source: newsroom.porsche.com

In celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Porsche has unveiled a masterpiece that bridges the past and the future: the Vision 357 Speedster. This concept car, a modern reinterpretation of Porsche's iconic shapes, pays homage to the legendary Porsche 356, the brand's first sports car.

As a sister model to the closed Porsche Vision 357, the Speedster is technologically based on the 718 GT4 e-Performance, showcasing a seamless blend of purist elegance and cutting-edge electric performance. With its debut at this years Goodwood Festival, the Vision 357 Speedster is not just a car; it is a statement of Porsches enduring commitment to innovation and design excellence.

Sculpted Elegance: Design and Features of the Vision 357 Speedster

source: newsroom.porsche.com

The Porsche Vision 357 Speedster is a striking blend of classic and contemporary design elements, a tribute to Porsches heritage while embracing the future of automotive design.

Shortened Front Windscreen

The Speedster features a shortened front windscreen, a hallmark of classic speedster design. This design choice emphasizes the cars monolithic body, giving it a sleek and aggressive stance reminiscent of Porsche's iconic racing heritage.

One-Sided Tonneau Cover

Adding to its vintage charm, the Vision 357 Speedster incorporates a one-sided tonneau cover that spans the right side of the car. This design element, once common on open-top sports cars, is a nod to the brands rich history and its connection to vintage race cars.

Exterior Color Concept

The Speedsters exterior is a visual feast, painted in two distinct grey tones: Marble Grey and Grivelo Grey Metallic. These classic hues are complemented by vibrant contrasts in Miami Blue, which are used on the quick-release mechanisms on the wrap-around front bonnet and as an accent color throughout the vehicle. This color scheme is inspired by historic motorsport forerunners, such as the front fenders used to protect against flying rocks in race scenarios.

Cameras in Place of Mirrors

In a forward-thinking design move, traditional exterior mirrors are replaced with cameras. These cameras are positioned forward on the fenders, not on the doors as in classic models. The cameras themselves are designed with an aerodynamically optimized shape, reminiscent of wings, which not only enhances the cars sleek profile but also reduces drag, improving the cars performance at high speeds.

Electrifying Performance: The Powertrain of the Vision 357 Speedster

The Porsche Vision 357 Speedster is not just a marvel of design; it is also a powerhouse of electric performance, showcasing Porsche's commitment to sustainable yet high-performance driving.

Dual Electric Motors

At the heart of the Vision 357 Speedster lies a pair of potent electric motors that together generate an astonishing over 1000 horsepower. In the 718 GT4 e-Performance trim, this setup delivers a remarkable 1073 horsepower to all four wheels, promising blistering acceleration and exceptional road performance that lives up to the Porsche name.

Cutting-Edge Battery Technology

The electric powertrain of the Vision 357 Speedster is derived from two significant sources: the Mission R and the 718 GT4 e-Performance. These platforms represent Porsches latest advancements in electric vehicle technology, ensuring that the Speedster is equipped with state-of-the-art components.

Optimized Battery System

The GT4 e-Performance, from which the Speedster borrows heavily, employs an 82 kWh battery system. This isn't just any battery; its meticulously engineered, split into three sections to optimize the vehicles weight distribution. This strategic layout enhances the cars balance and handling, allowing for a driving experience that is both dynamic and stable, even at high speeds.

Driver's Sanctuary: The Refined Interior of the Vision 357 Speedster

Porsche 357 Speedster interior | source: newsroom.porsche.com

The interior of the Porsche Vision 357 Speedster is a masterclass in minimalism and driver-focused design, reminiscent of the focused environment found in the Porsche RSR race cars. It combines traditional craftsmanship with futuristic elements that echo Porsches commitment to innovation.

Driver-Centric Cockpit

The Speedster features a purist, reduced cockpit meticulously tailored to the driver. At the center of this design is a futuristic transparent instrument cluster, which provides the driver with essential information in a visually stunning and intuitive manner. This setup ensures that the driver remains connected to the car and the road in a seamless, immersive driving experience.

Carbon-Weave Finish Dashboard

Adding to the Speedster's luxurious and modern ambiance is the carbon-weave finish dashboard. This design choice not only exudes a sense of sporty elegance but also pays homage to Porsches racing heritage. In a unique twist, traditional storage solutions are reimagined, with Miami Blue straps taking the place of a conventional glove compartment, adding a pop of color and a touch of practicality.

High-Performance Seating

The drivers seat is a state-of-the-art, Racetex-covered, carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic seat. This lightweight yet incredibly strong material ensures optimal support during spirited driving. The seat is secured with a Miami Blue six-point harness, a nod to the cars racing pedigree and a striking contrast that adds to the interiors vibrant character.

Thoughtful Accents

Completing the Speedsters interior are matching Miami Blue accents on the steering wheel, infusing the driver's primary touchpoint with the same lively energy found throughout the car. In a move that further simplifies and declutters the interior, simple fabric straps replace conventional door handles, emphasizing the cars race-inspired, minimalist ideas.

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A Grand Entrance: Special Features and Global Debut of the Vision 357 Speedster

The Porsche Vision 357 Speedster is not just a car; it is an event in itself, designed to captivate audiences and celebrate significant milestones in Porsche's storied history. Here are the special features and debut details that set this concept car apart:

International Showcasing

The Vision 357 Speedster is set to be a star attraction, with plans for it to be on display at various international car shows. One of the notable events where this concept car will make its presence felt is the Rennsport Reunion in the USA. This prestigious gathering, which celebrates Porsches racing heritage, will provide enthusiasts and the public alike with an opportunity to witness the Speedster's design and innovation up close.

Commemorative Anniversary Logo

Adding a touch of historical significance to the Speedster is a special anniversary logo. This logo prominently features the numbers 75, 1948, and 2023, each with its own special meaning. "75" marks the 75th anniversary of the Porsche brand, "1948" is a nod to the year the first Porsche 356 was produced, and "2023" signifies the current year of the Speedster's debut.

These numbers are elegantly rendered in Grivelo Grey Metallic and Miami Blue, tying the logo visually to the cars unique color scheme and serving as a constant reminder of Porsche's rich and enduring legacy. Moreover, the Porsche 934, a racing legend born in the 1970s, was a formidable competitor on the track and played a pivotal role in shaping Porsche's motorsport legacy.

Conclusion

The Porsche Vision 357 Speedster is a remarkable blend of heritage and innovation. This concept car is a heartfelt tribute to Porsche's storied past, echoing the purist design of the iconic Porsche 356 while boldly integrating cutting-edge e-performance technology.

With its powerful electric motors and advanced battery system, it exemplifies Porsche's vision for a sustainable, electrifying future without compromising on performance. Set to dazzle audiences at various international car shows, beginning with the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed, the Vision 357 Speedster is more than a car; it is Porsche's statement of enduring commitment to excellence and innovation in the automotive world.