The name might sound German, but Luftgekühlt is more than just a language lesson. Literally translating to “air-cooled,” this term takes on a whole new meaning when you understand it refers to one of the most spectacular Porsche-only auto shows in the country.
What Makes Luftgekühlt Different?
Co-founders Patrick Long, a two-time Le Mans winner, and Howie Idelson, a Southern California creative director, created Luftgekühlt with a simple but powerful mission: to share their passion for Porsche in a way no other event could. The result? A unique auto show dedicated exclusively to Porsche—from their most stunning production cars to their most celebrated racing vehicles.
What truly sets Luftgekühlt apart is its location selection. Unlike traditional auto shows that typically take place in parking lots or golf courses, Luftgekühlt organizers deliberately choose venues nearly as impressive as the Porsches themselves. Past locations have included the Bottleworks District in Indianapolis and Universal Studios Backlot in Los Angeles. Even more impressively, the 2024 show crossed the Atlantic to Copenhagen, filling a historic airport hangar with dozens of Porsches.
A Growing Phenomenon
Now in its eleventh year, Luftgekühlt has evolved into a must-attend event for Porsche enthusiasts. What makes the Durham, North Carolina installment particularly special is that it marks the show’s arrival on the East Coast for the first time.
The choice of venue itself tells a story. The American Tobacco Campus, with construction beginning in 1874 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2000, brings a unique dimension to the event. Hundreds of Porsche masterpieces displayed against century-old architecture creates an experience unlike any other.
“This year’s event is an incredible culmination of about six, seven years of work,” Patrick Long shared. His journey began in 2018 when a Porsche collector first suggested this historic location as potential home for Luftgekühlt. “The first time I showed up here, I totally got it, and I was very, very sure this would be a great spot for us—the first spot on the East Coast.”
More Than Just Cars
While the stunning array of Porsches is undoubtedly the centerpiece of Luftgekühlt, the event offers more than just automotive display. It’s a celebration of Porsche’s rich heritage, innovation, and design excellence. The attention to detail in both car selection and venue curation creates an immersive experience that simply cannot be captured through photos alone.
For enthusiasts seeking an authentic connection with Porsche’s legacy, attending in person offers a glimpse into what makes these vehicles legendary. From concept cars to vintage models to modern masterpieces, Luftgekühlt brings the full spectrum of Porsche’s achievements to life against breathtaking backdrops.
So whether you’re a lifelong Porsche fan or just beginning to discover the magic of these iconic automobiles, Luftgekühlt offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the brand’s legacy in a way that truly comes alive
