Porsche Panamera S
It’s no secret that Porsche has a new found love affair with vehicle electrification, having recently unveiled its first hybrid model ever, the 2011 Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid, as well as teasing fans with high-performance hybrids such as the 911 GT3 R Hybrid and 918 Spyder. Porsche even confirmed this week that it would be testing an all-electric version of its Boxster sports car next year and eventually plans to release a production version.
That’s already quite a tally for a company focused on building sports car but Porsche has even more electrified vehicle plans up its sleeve. The sports car manufacturer has also confirmed that the hybrid system from its new Cayenne S Hybrid will feature in the Panamera sedan next year.
2011 Porsche Cayenne Hybrid
The new model will be called the Porsche Panamera S Hybrid and it should output around 380 horsepower and 427 pound-feet of torque from a combination of a supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 and electric motor running on lithium-ion batteries. In the Cayenne S Hybrid this powertrain delivers a fuel economy of around 28.7 mpg, so expect even better figures for the lighter and more aerodynamic Panamera.
Depending on driving conditions, either the supercharged V-6 or electric motor can operate independently or together. The two drive units are connected by a decoupling clutch. A hybrid controller constantly coordinates their interaction and electronic management of the clutch makes the transition among various driving modes seamless. Like many rival hybrids, Porsche’s hybrid system can enable short distances to be covered on electric power alone, free of emissions and noise up to speeds of almost 40 mph.
2011 Porsche Cayenne Hybrid
Another standout feature is the ability to cruise at high speeds on electric power alone. The gasoline engine can be completely switched off and disengaged from the drivetrain at speeds of up to 97 mph, eliminating any drag forces.
The story doesn’t end there as Porsche is also expected to put its 918 Spyder into production. To read up more details on this car, check out Nelson Ireson’s report over at MotorAuthority.com.
[Porsche]
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