Motoring Weekly

Hybrid drive for Porsche Panamera

January 16 - 22, 2008
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Porsche will be building a pioneering hybrid drive version of the new Panamera.

It will be the first four-door sports model to feature particularly fuel-efficient "full parallel" technology.

The system will consist primarily of a battery unit positioned in the luggage compartment, the power electronics, and the hybrid module between the engine and transmission comprising an additional clutch and an electric motor.

Depending on driving conditions, the module is able to disengage either the combustion engine or the electric motor, or to combine both drive systems as one joint power unit.

Hence, the Panamera could be driven in a number of different modes ranging from all-electric drive - absolutely free of emissions -_all the way to the sporting style of motoring so typical of a Porsche.

Depending on driving conditions, the hybrid module is able to disengage either the combustion engine or the electric motor, or to combine both drive systems as one joint power unit.

"The space available inside the car offers a brand-new experience of roominess. The two sporting and comfortable single seats at the rear will allow adults to relax with surprisingly generous headroom, in full comfort and, if they wish, with all the performance and speed of a genuine Gran Turismo," a company official said.

The new Panamera Gran Turismo will be making its world debut in 2009. The hybrid version will follow later, depending on market requirements.







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