The hybrid Porsche 911 is almost ready.
Porsche has ruled out the idea of an electric 911, at least for now, but hybrid technology is definitely being studied. When the 911 992 undergoes its mid-cycle refresh within the next six to twelve months, some variants will receive electrified powertrains.
One of these is expected to be the Turbo S model, currently being tested in Europe. Porsche CEO Oliver Blume stated last year that an electrified 911 would be coming. He specified that it would be a hybrid car based on the former 919 Hybrid LMP1, not a plug-in hybrid like the 918 Spyder. This means there will be no plug, and the electric motor(s) will only be used to support the internal combustion engine and to recover energy during braking. The power output is expected to increase, but Porsche has not provided any figures.
According to Motor Authority, the hybrid 911 Turbo S will use a 400-volt electrical system instead of an 800-volt system like the Taycan electric car. The higher voltage system is better suited for fast charging, which is not necessary for a hybrid car with a much smaller battery compared to an electric vehicle. The electric motor is expected to be integrated into the transmission. Former head of the 911, August Achleitner, stated in an interview with Motor Authority in 2019 that the 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission used in the 992 generation 911 is the same as the one used in the hybrid versions of the Panamera, which also integrates the electric motor into the transmission.
The 911 update will also feature some stylistic changes. Prototypes reveal new designs for the rear lights and exhaust tips. The front bumper is expected to be modernized, and the headlights should have new internal elements with brighter and more precise beams. The turn signals may also be integrated into the headlights, instead of being placed on the front bumper as they currently are. The updated 911 Turbo S is expected to be unveiled later this year or early next year. It should be accompanied by a refreshed Carerra 911, which is also expected to offer a hybrid option. Both models are expected to be available in North America in 2025.
Source: “La Porsche 911 hybride est presque prête” from L’annuel de l’automobile – Actualité automobile
