German tuning specialist Gemballa has announced a comprehensive package of goodies for the Porsche Cayenne called Tornado. This is the company’s first creation since former CEO and founder Uwe Gemballa was found dead in South Africa, after allegedly being involved in a money laundering scheme with a wanted Czech felon.

Starting with the bodykit, most tuners apply carbon fiber body panels by bonding them to modified factory steel pieces. However, this method doesn’t lighten the car and according to current Gemballa CEO, Andreas Schwarz, it’s not the way these materials should be used. “Carbon-fibre is a high strength, low weight structural material that needs to be used honestly, and not just for decoration”, Mr. Schwarz said.

Consequently, Gemballa went on and replaced most of the steel panels as well as many plastic parts on the Cayenne with carbon fiber equivalents. As a result, the company claims it has shaved a total of 70 kg or 154 lbs over the standard car, while retaining all security-related features, like side impact protection bars.

The Tornado boasts a modified front bumper with enormous air intakes that channel air to the brakes and are flanked by vertical LED daytime running lights. The wheel arches have been significantly widened, increasing overall width to 2.05 meters (81 inches). Many of the lightweight panels were left exposed, creating a sharp contrast with the white paintjob. At the back we can find rounded tail-lights, complementing the design of the four exhaust tips.

Huge 22-inch alloy wheels shod in 205/35 front and 335/30 rear tires, round up the exterior updates.

Gemballa doesn’t go into details when it comes to interior modifications, simply stating that these are still in development and will be “characterized by both elegance and functionality”.

As far as power is concerned, Gemballa is working on a Stage Two engine conversion for the Tornado, which will increase peak output to 700 hp and 1,000 Nm (738 lb-ft) of torque, through turbocharging. Upgraded Brembo brakes accompany the power boost.

The Tornado will have a limited production run of only 30 units. Full specs and pricing should follow soon.

By Csaba Daradics

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