Porsche Unveils Hybrid Flat Six for Upcoming 911 GTS
Porsche has introduced an electrified version of its iconic 911 model with the new T-Hybrid petrol-electric system. This hybrid drivetrain, developed with insights from the Le Mans-winning 919 race car, is a key addition to the facelifted seventh-generation 911. The T-Hybrid system combines a turbocharged 3.6-liter six-cylinder boxer engine, a gearbox-mounted electric motor, and a compact liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery. Together, these components deliver an impressive 534bhp and up to 450lb ft of torque for the rear-wheel-drive 911 GTS.
Enhanced Performance and Efficiency
Despite the addition of a hybrid system, the new 911 GTS boasts improved performance figures. Porsche claims a reduction of 0.4 seconds in the 0-62mph time, now at 3.0 seconds. The car also achieves quicker acceleration times of 0-100mph in 6.8 seconds and 0-124mph in 10.5 seconds, along with a top speed increase of 1mph to 194mph. These enhancements are noteworthy considering the 50kg increase in kerb weight for the hybridized GTS, at 1595kg.
The new T-Hybrid system’s performance is further highlighted by the Nürburgring lap time of the GTS, which is now 8.7 seconds faster than its predecessor at 7 minutes and 16.93 seconds. This lap time is comparable to the performance of the 718 Cayman GT4 RS and is only four seconds behind the renowned 918 Spyder supercar.
Innovative Turbocharger and Energy Recuperation System
A key development in the T-Hybrid system is the integration of a new BorgWarner turbocharger with an energy recuperation system, which harnesses kinetic electricity from hot exhaust gases. This technology, similar to that used in the 919 racer, allows the system to generate up to 11kW of kinetic energy. Combined with the electric motor’s brake regeneration, this enables the T-Hybrid system to operate without the need for external charging.
Frank Moser, Porsche 911 project leader, explains, “We produce the energy on board. It always recuperates – under acceleration, during braking, and on a trailing throttle. Even at the 312kph [194mph] top speed, we continue to store kinetic energy in the battery.”
Improved Aerodynamics and Styling
Alongside the hybrid drivetrain, Porsche has made significant changes to the aerodynamics and styling of the 911 GTS. The car now features active front air ducts with louvres that open and close depending on cooling demands. The front bumper houses radar and ultrasonic sensors, with LED matrix headlights incorporating indicator functions. At the rear, the 911 sports new OLED tail-lights, a revised spoiler, and a reworked diffuser.
Porsche offers an optional aero kit for the GTS, which reduces lift and generates 10kg of downforce at 194mph. The drag coefficient has also been reduced from 0.32 to 0.27, a new record for the 911.
Future Hybrid Models and Pricing
While the new 911 GTS will initially be launched in rear-wheel-drive form, Porsche confirms that the T-Hybrid system is compatible with four-wheel drive. This suggests that upcoming versions of the 911 Turbo and Carrera 4 will also benefit from this hybrid drivetrain technology.
Pricing and launch details for the first 911 hybrid have not yet been disclosed by Porsche. However, it is expected that the hybrid version will command a premium over the previous GTS model, which started at around £111,000.
In conclusion, with the introduction of the hybrid flat six and the T-Hybrid system, Porsche continues to push the boundaries of performance and efficiency in its iconic 911 model. By incorporating technologies and insights from their motorsport successes, Porsche has created a compelling hybrid drivetrain that enhances both speed and sustainability. With future hybrid models on the horizon, Porsche reaffirms its commitment to innovation and electrification in the sports car segment.
