Porsche to introduce hybrid technology into every model
As a way of adhering to strict new fleet emission regulations, Porsche will be introducing a hybrid version of every model in its showroom. The philosophy will extend to all sports models, too, and will be topped off by the awesome Porsche 918 electric concept.
Porsche is serious when it comes to providing an eco-friendly version of every car, the first of which was launched earlier this year in the form of the Porsche Cayenne Hybrid. A Porsche Panamera Hybrid is also planned to go on sale with the Cayenne some time in 2011.
Wolfgang Duerheimer, Porsche's development chief, said in a recent Automotive News report,
"In the future, we will have hybrid drive in every model line."
Duerheimer also said the Porsche 918, which will go into limited production in three to four year's time, will use the concept as the basis for further development. He said,
"We want to learn how we can electrify all our sports cars in the future with the help of this short production run."
Some details of the upcoming Porsche Panamera Hybrid reveal the car will be capable of driving in full-electric mode and provide up to 6km of fuel-free driving. It isn't much but it's not bad for a hybrid vehicle that is not trying to be an EV of any sorts.
Porsche also plans to introduce a hybrid Boxster and 911 at some stage, but the company hasn't specified any definite schedule. The new turn to hybrid technology comes after the European Union set Porsche a fleet emission restriction of 216gm of CO2 per kilometre to be reached by 2015, down from the current 255gm/km the company is at now.
Recent reports also indicate Porsche might bring out four cylinder engines for some of its models. But don't worry, Porsche has assured the 911 will still be the bee's knees in sports car territory. Duerheimer said,
"If the CO2 guidelines require it, then our engines will become smaller and may have just four cylinders. The important thing is that the performance has to be right. The 911 must always be on the cutting edge."
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