[Updated Photo Gallery] Porsche just released a new, mid-engined conceptual bomb on the EPA via Geneva. The 918 Spyder, a plug-in concept with claimed emissions of 70g CO2/km, is said to provide the Marty McFly's kids with a fuel economy of 78 mpg US (3L / 100 km) while lapping the 'Ring in 7:30, hitting 100km/h in 3.2 seconds, and peaking at 320 km/h (198 mph). That's supposed to get you hooked.
Its engine is a 9,200 RPM-reaching, 500-horse out-putting, 3.4 liter-displacing V8 which is electro-enhanced by way of motors that supposedly add another 160 kW (218 hp).
All-wheel-power hits the ground via a 7-speed PDK, energy is stored in a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery behind the passenger, the brakes are regenerative, and the carbon-fiberized plastic body panels keep weight around 1,490 kilos (3,285 lbs). But you say you want variety?
According to Porsche, the 918 has four different modes of power delivery:
"A button on the steering wheel allows the driver to choose among four different running modes: The E-Drive mode is for running the car under electric power alone, with a range of up to 25 km or 16 miles. In the Hybrid mode, the 918 Spyder uses both the electric motors and the combustion engine as a function of driving conditions and requirements, offering a range from particularly fuel-efficient all the way to extra-powerful."
The Sport Hybrid mode uses both drive systems, but with the focus on performance. Most of the drive power goes to the rear wheels, with Torque Vectoring serving to additionally improve the carís driving dynamics.
In the Race Hybrid mode the drive systems are focused on pure performance with the highest standard of driving dynamics on the track, running at the limit to their power and dynamic output.
With the battery sufficiently charged, a push-to-pass button feeds in additional electrical power (E-Boost), when overtaking or for even better performance."
Inside the Spyder, people will be able to preview Porsche's future interior design/tech ideas.
Prime examples include the already-popular lighting variations (Eco mode is green, Sport is red, etc.), a very-Ferrari multi-function steering wheel, and Range Manager, a nav-system-based program that A) shows the car's current range - on a map - when driving, and B) shows the car's electricity-only range when in a city, along with potential filling stations.
Porsche says the 918 Spyder can even beat the Carrera GT on the Nordschleife. I'll believe it when I see it. Until THAT insane feat is proven, have a look at Porsche's official pics below. Live shots are on their way.
-By Phil Alex
