Porsche 2004 Annual Report Download - page 92

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Research and Development88
During the review year, the Research and Development Division
concentrated its activities on further versions of the 911 model line,
in particular the Cabriolet and all-wheel-drive versions of the latest
model generation. In parallel with this, a new, individual model concept
was developed: the Cayman S, which is clearly distinct from both
the Boxster and the 911 in its design and power unit. In addition, the
Cayenne’s customer appeal was further enhanced by new equipment
offers, for example a panoramic sunroof.
For its ongoing work on the Porsche model program, the Development
division has also concentrated heavily on electrics and electronics,
an area notable for rapid technical progress. This was taken into
consideration by attaching greater emphasis to advance development
work, since this in turn creates a basis for the successful development
of future production vehicles. In addition, the engineering staff at
the Weissach Development Center devoted themselves intensively to
matters concerning emissions and safety, and drew up innovative
concepts for future vehicle generations.
In order to maintain and enhance the leading technological and orga-
nizational position enjoyed by the Porsche Development Center,
the processes and work sequences it employs must be continually
improved. This also involves extending its experimental facilities and
simulation programs, a task that was pursued with determination
in the review year.
911 Carrera Cabriolet with Many New Technical Features
In accordance with regular Porsche model launch policy, the 911
Carrera Cabriolet was introduced in the review year, only a few months
after the debut of the new 911 Carrera Coupe. For the first time, the
Cabriolet version was available on the market launch date with two
engine outputs. Its design is a progressive development of the classic
911 body style. Compared with the previous model, the track has
been widened and the body is distinctly more strongly ‘waisted’ in
plan view than before. Clear outlines and emphasis on the rear end
of the body with its widened fenders have given this model an even
more powerful silhouette. To display this in conjunction with the
soft top, the designers devoted particularly careful attention to the
transitions at the rear of the body.
In many cases, open-top driving involves sacrifices in the aerodynamic
area. In this respect, however, Porsche’s development team have
accepted no compromises: with the soft top closed, the cabriolet’s
drag coefficient (cD) is 0.29 (previous model = 0.30) and thus
precisely the same as the 911 Carrera S Coupe. Among the factors
contributing to this excellent value compared with the car’s competi-
tors is effective integration of the soft top into the car’s aerodynamics.
The soft top on this new open 911 retains the successful outline
and technical features of the preceding model, with improvements to
certain details. A scarcely noticeable rain channel above the doors
prevents water from dripping onto those entering and leaving the car.