First Report – Motortrend.com 11/18/11
Driving in Los Angeles isn’t exactly enjoyable — but driving near the busy L.A. streets may become a lot more tolerable in the next couple of years. Porsche plans on opening a new West Coast Experience Center near the junction of Interstates 405 and 110, incorporating an extensive test track.
This exclusive idea — although not the first of its kind — allows for Porsche enthusiasts to put the automaker’s newest production vehicles to the physical test. Based in Carson, CA, it will be one of only five in the world, and one of two in North America (a similar facility is being developed near Atlanta, GA). It makes sense on paper because Southern California is one of Porsche’s largest markets, and while the proposed site is incredibly visible, it also stands near two major traffic highways and is only minutes away from a major international airport. Perhaps we can hope for a high-altitude Porsche Experience Center, near Avalon Motorsports, in the years to come.
Highlighting the proposed 53-acre facility is undoubtedly the lengthy test track. Deemed a “safe, exhilarating environment for experiencing the pleasure of being in the driver’s seat,” the course seemingly offers everything a driver could want. A road course is a naturally an unwritten requirement, but the play land will also include a giant skid pad, special surfaces that replicate wet or frozen roads, and an off-road portion for Cayenne SUVs to demonstrate their encompassing talents. The grounds will be open to anyone enrolled in driving courses, but Porsche hints it will likely allow corporate clients, car clubs, and other groups to rent the facility.
The PEC is more than just a giant test track, however. Other amenities include a showroom, gift shop, café, and conference rooms. Interestingly, the PEC will also serve as home to Porsche’s Human Performance Center, a sports lab catering to dialing in the performance of human, not machine. Similar programs around the globe provide training not only for race drivers, but for endurance athletes as well.
Porsche hasn’t indicated exactly when its latest Experience Center will open its doors, but because groundbreaking is scheduled summer 2012, you can expect a grand opening sometime in 2013.
Avalon Motorsports is your first-class option for Porsche service and repair in Denver, CO. Let our factory-trained Porsche technicians and our friendly staff help you achieve your maintenance needs and performance dreams!