Porsche Hybrid

[Wizzo]

Porsche has announced a hybrid drive version of the forthcoming four-door Gran Turismo Porsche Panamera. The hybrid Panamera will use the components of the Cayenne Hybrid expected in 2009 and is an interesting technical solution as the hybrid module can disengage either the combustion engine or the electric motor, or combine both drive systems as one joint power unit. Thus the Panamera hybrid will be able to be driven in a number of different modes ranging from all-electric through to the muscle car sporting style of motoring so typical of a Porsche.

The full parallel hybrid system will consist primarily of the battery unit positioned in the luggage compartment, the power electronics, and the hybrid module between the engine and transmission comprising an additional clutch and the electric motor.

The Panamera will be the fourth Porsche model series, and other striking features of the car will include a wide and low body offering dynamic proportions and muscular design to convey an outstandingly sporting yet compact overall look.

The roomy interior space of the Panamera offers two sporting and comfortable single seats in the rear that will allow adults to relax with surprisingly generous headroom in full comfort and, should they wish, with all the performance and speed of a genuine Gran Turismo.

Sitting in the elegant and modern cockpit distinguished by its high-quality materials, the driver will enjoy an unmistakable Porsche driving experience. The new Panamera Gran Turismo will be making its world debut in 2009 and will be introduced initially with proven drive concepts. The hybrid version will follow later, depending on market requirements.

[cosworth151]

I had just read about this in yesterday's Autoweek Daily Drive. They said that Porsche claims there will be a 30 percent decrease in fuel consumption in the Panamera hybrid compared with nonhybrid models.

The Panamera debuts next year as a 2010 model, with the hybrid possibly landing in showrooms alongside the Cayenne hybrid in 2010 as a 2011 model. If Porsche cannot release both green models at the same time, it will push the Panamera hybrid back a year or two to become a 2012 model.