Preview: Porsche 918 Spyder
by edit@cnet.com.au (Derek Fung)Outlook
To no-one’s great surprise, but nonetheless to our great joy, Porsche has confirmed that the plug-in hybrid 918 Spyder supercar from the 2010 Geneva Auto Show is headed for production. Although the company’s not saying when that will be.
In brief
The 918 Spyder is a plug-in hybrid powered by a 373kW 3.4-litre V8 augmented by three electric motors capable of delivering 160kW; the rear wheels are driven through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Weight (1490kg) is kept low as the body is made from carbon fibre reinforced plastic, as well as magnesium and aluminium.
Click through for a complete look at the 918 Spyder.
(Credit: Porsche)
Flat out it can accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 3.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 320km/h. Driven more sedately, Porsche claims fuel economy of 3L/100km and CO2 emissions of 70g/km.
Unlike a traditional hybrid the 918 Spyder is of the plug-in variety, so its batteries can be recharged overnight or as you slave away on planet cube farm. There are four driving modes available to 918 drivers: Hybrid, Sport Hybrid, Race Hybrid and E-Drive, which can power the 918 on electric power alone for up to 25km.
The 918 Spyder seats just two passengers and the cabin’s central LCD screen has a Range Manager function that displays on a map what your projected range is, allowing the driver to choose how hard or soft they want to drive. The floating central column’s entertainment, climate and car controls are operated via touch-sensitive interface that’s augmented by a few physical dials and buttons.
For more information on the nitty-gritty check out our in-depth 918 Spyder gallery.
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