This year, automakers used the Geneva Motor Show to showcase ridiculously fast hybrid and electric cars. My favorite of the lot? While it’s hard to decide, it will have to be the Porsche 918 Spyder, a plug-in hybrid supercar that makes no compromises on driving power.
While high-performance luxury sportscars won’t be saving the world anytime soon, you can’t help but look in awe of a vehicle that pairs eco-friendly tech with sophisticated performance. In fact, Porsche claims their new hybrid cleared the famous Nurburgring in 7.5 minutes, making it faster than their very own Carrera GT.
The 918 Spyder’s powertrain consists of a V8 engine (pulled from the RS Spyder race-car parts bin) and two electric motors, combining for a total of 500hp and an impressive driving mileage of 78.4 mpg. It posts a top speed of 198 mph and accelerates from 0 to 60 in as fast as 3.2 seconds. Batteries have been mounted behind the seats.
It comes with four electronically-controlled modes: E-Drive (pure electric power on a 16-mile range), Hybrid (system controls when to use engine or motor), Sport Hybrid (tips the gas-electric scale according to whichever helps the car run faster) and Race Hybrid (for maximum performance). Other features include a seven-speed PDX gearbox, carbon-composite monocoque bodyshell and 3,285 lb of weight.
Possibly the most gorgeous hybrid concept ever to rear its hide, it’s unlikely that the Porsche 918 Spyder will be available to customers soon. You can bet the company managed to drive a lot of interest in a Porsche-branded, eco-conscious supercar, though, increasing the likelihood of seeing this one across showrooms in the foreseeable future.
[via Autopia]