Now on sale: Porsche hybrid electric supercar

Mississauga – If you happen to have close to a million dollars itching to be spent on a electric vehicle, Porsche AG has announced that it is taking orders for the 918 Spyder, the company’s $845,000 (U.S.) hybrid supercar.

Modeled on the Carrera GT supercar as well as the Porsche 917 and RS Spyder, the production version of the two-seater, based on a carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) monocoque, features a Targa-like manual roof system with removable panels that can be stowed in the front luggage compartment.

More importantly, the supercar will be powered by plug-in hybrid system consisting a 500 hp V8 engine as well as two electric motors—one at the front axle and one at the rear—which will add approximately 218 hp to provide variable all-wheel drive.

Together, motors will give the 918 Spyder a top speed of more than 320 km/h and a 0 to 100 km/h of 3.2 seconds but consume 3.0 L/100 km (on the New European Driving Cycle) when driven economically, the company says.

Available for order now, production of the 918 Spyder will begin in September 2013 and will be limited to a maximum of 918 units. Orders from around the world will be produced, in the sequence they are received, at Porsche’s main factory in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen. The first Canadian deliveries are anticipated at the end of 2013.

Check out these Porsche 918 photos!

www.porsche.ca