New Porsche Hybrid Concept Car Gets 78 Miles to the Gallon

You know what the world needs? A plug-in hybrid that can go from 0-60 mph in three seconds. Soon, fast-driving, sports-car-loving greeners may be able to enjoy the fast lane guilt-free with Porsche’s new plug-in hybrid concept car. Unveiled the night before the Geneva Auto Show, the Spyder 918 allegedly has a 500 horsepower V-8 engine and can hit 60 mph in 3.2 seconds, all while getting 78 miles to the gallon. A pair of electric motors offer another 218 horsepower.

If it sounds strange that a 500 hp motor could get 78 mpg, join the club. All we have to work on in terms of performance stats is what Porsche and its parent Volkswagon are telling us — not to imply that they are deliberately misleading us. The concept is actually quite exciting; such a high-powered hybrid could make waves in the auto industry. But it is still a concept, and how it translates into reality remains to be seen. Although, Porsche’s chairman was careful to point out at the unveiling that his company has yet to make a concept car that it didn’t take to production.

It seems unlikely that the real Spyder’s performance stats will live up to the concept, but even if it comes close, it will definitely have an impact. Apparently, the concept car can go only 16 miles on electricity alone, so the vast majority of power and drive must come from gasoline. To me, that means Porsche must’ve really tweaked their engine to squeeze 78 miles per gallon out of it. The technology is fascinating. I have no doubt that if the Spyder 918 becomes reality, 1 percent of the world’s population that can afford it will definitely enjoy the ride. Look out, LA freeways!

Via Treehugger

Photo Credit: Automoblog & CNET

Posted on March 5th in Solar News by Dan.