Elon Musk’s joke was about the name, not the Taycan’s electric performance. On September 5, 2019, after Porsche unveiled the Taycan, Musk posted: “Um Porsche, this word Turbo does not mean what you think it does.” He was pointing to the literal meaning of turbocharger: a device driven by exhaust gases, which an all-electric car does not have.
What Musk said about the Taycan
In the wake of the Taycan’s unveiling, Musk took aim at Porsche’s decision to call versions of its battery-electric sports car the Taycan Turbo and Turbo S. Futurism reproduced his post as: “Um Porsche, this word Turbo does not mean what you think it does.” Futurism’s account of Musk’s post and La Vanguardia’s report date the remark to September 5, 2019.
Why the word sounded odd literally
A turbocharger uses an internal-combustion engine’s exhaust gases to spin a turbine, forcing more air into the engine. The battery-electric Taycan has electric motors instead, so it has no exhaust-driven turbocharger. Contemporary coverage described that mechanical distinction in explaining Musk’s jab. InsideEVs’ coverage discusses the Taycan’s electric powertrain and Porsche’s use of Turbo in its lineup.
Why Porsche used “Turbo” anyway
“Turbo” can mean more than a particular piece of engine hardware in vehicle branding. Porsche had long used Turbo as a performance designation, and contemporaneous coverage framed the Taycan names as part of that convention. Inc reported that Porsche North America president Klaus Zellmer defended using the term for products that do not contain turbochargers, offering razors as an example. That is Inc’s account of his explanation, not a verified verbatim quotation or a published Porsche naming-policy document. Inc’s report provides that context.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →#1 Best Overall
- Licensed Porsche Taycan - Electric car for kids is officially licensed, Porsche Taycan ride-on car features the same styling as the real car, such as a racing steering wheel, slim body, smooth lines, 2-speed, dual door safety locks and LED lights for a realistic driving experience for your little one
- 2 Control Methods - Kids electric car supports pedal operation and remote control operation. Remote control operation supports 3 speed switching, which improves the safety of children
- More Experiencial - Toy cars for toddlers comes with Bluetooth functionality and a built-in music player, perfect for kids to play their favorite songs and stories on outdoor trips, with real speaker sound on the steering wheel to make the experience even more enjoyable
- More Safer - Electric car is equipped with soft start, rear wheel shock absorbers, and a safety belt design, lockable double doors, and ASTM and CPSIA certified. All functions are ready for children's safe travel
- A Good Choice for Children - Ride on car is suitable for children over 3 years old, can bear a maximum weight of 66LBS, is equipped with 2x25W motors and a rechargeable battery, and only needs to be fully charged for 8-12 hours for 1 hour of play
The distinction behind the exchange
- Mechanical meaning: A turbocharger is exhaust-driven engine hardware; the all-electric Taycan does not have one.
- Branding meaning: Porsche used Turbo as a performance label for Taycan versions, including Turbo and Turbo S.
Musk’s post challenged the literal fit of the word. Porsche’s reported rationale treated it as a familiar performance designation instead.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Doors Open
- Pullback Action
- Die Cast Metal Body
- Pull Back Action
Rank #4
- AUTHENTIC PORSCHE DESIGN: Faithfully recreates the Porsche Taycan Turbo S in a striking blue finish with detailed styling
- COLLECTIBLE SERIES: Numbered 34 out of 250, making it a sought-after piece for Hot Wheels and Porsche enthusiasts
- 1:64 SCALE: Precisely crafted at 1:64 scale to accurately represent the real-life Porsche Taycan Turbo S proportions
- DIE CAST CONSTRUCTION: Made from durable die cast metal for a high-quality, sturdy feel and long-lasting display appeal
- VERSATILE COLLECTIBLE: Suitable for adding to a die cast collection or enjoying as a classic toy car for enthusiasts of all ages
Rank #3
- PREMIUM QUALITY: Constructed with durable die-cast metal body, featuring clear windows, detailed interior, and precision-engineered components
- Pullback Action
- FUNCTIONAL FEATURES: Opening doors and pull-back motor action provide interactive play experience while maintaining collector-grade detail
- PERFECT DISPLAY SIZE: Compact 5-inch length makes it ideal for showcasing, with proportionate dimensions that capture the iconic sports car's essence
- COLLECTIBLE VALUE: Meticulously crafted replica perfect for die-cast car enthusiasts and Porsche fans, suitable for ages 3 and up
Rank #2
- Revell Plastic Model Car Kit #85-4521 is skill level 4 and contains 109 parts. Recommended for ages 12 and up.
- Assembled Dimensions: 7.00"x3.13"x2.19"
- 3.2-liter flat six engine. Positional front wheels & movable engine cover. Fuchs style wheels & optional front chin spoiler.
- Choice of left or right-hand drive version and either US or Euro spec front turn indicators and rear bumper guards.
- Molded in white and clear with soft black tires. Paint and glue not included.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
