To be unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, with sales to commence in 2014, Porsche's 918 Spyder is expected to be one of the first new generation European supercars to make use of hybrid electric technology.
The news was confirmed in the latest edition of the official Porsche Christophorus magazine, though potential Australian buyers will be disappointed to know the million dollar exotic sports car won't be coming to Australia.
Porsche Cars Australia's PR Manager, Paul Ellis, told motoring.com.au that the high-priced hybrid will not be coming to Australia due to production in left-hand drive only. It may not stop well-heeled local collectors ordering the sports car from Europe or the United States and importing one privately.
First seen in concept form at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, the 918 Spyder made plenty of waves, partly due to its use of three electric motors alongside the standard combustion V8.
The production version is reported to use two electric motors, paired to a 4.6-litre V8 petrol engine; enough to propel the lightweight supercar from 0-100km/h in less than 3.5 seconds. The V8 engine is a modified version of the RS Spyder LMP2 race car's powerplant, and should enable the car to reach speeds of more than 300km/h.
Forged lightweight pistons from an F1 supplier will be used, while Porsche will also take advantage of "...a very high compression ratio, and - a Porsche first - variable valve timing with intake and exhaust phase stepper motors," according to Christophorus.
Peak power is not yet known, but it could go as high as 530kW, when the electric power generation is factored in. There is also a 'green' driving mode designed to save fuel.
To be built at Porsche's Zuffenhausen factory, the 918 Spyder is expected to tip the scales at a smidgen under 1700kg – about 300kg more than the latest 911.
In a bid to tide over potential 918 buyers, Porsche is releasing special edition 911 Turbo S models dubbed "Edition 918 Spyder" which get retina-scorching lime green brake callipers, decals and mirror highlights. Available as a coupe or cabriolet, these limited edition 911s will only be available to customers who order a 918 Spyder - and have another few hundred thousand dollars to spare.
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