Porsche has revealed an updated version of its legendary sports car, the 911, which now features hybrid power for the very first time.
The four-wheel-drive Carrera GTS features a 3.6-litre boxer engine that churns out 541 hp and can do 0-100 km/h in 3.0 seconds and has a top speed of 310 km/h.
The hybrid powertrain has two electric motors that are coupled to a high-voltage battery. It corresponds in size and weight to a conventional 12-volt starter battery, but can store 1.9kWh of energy and operates at a voltage of 400V. For the best weight saving, Porsche has fitted a lithium-ion battery for the 12V on-board electrical system.
On the exterior, the new 911 focuses on aerodynamics with newly-designed bumpers. GTS models feature five vertically arranged active cooling flaps and there are adaptive front dampers.
There’s also a redesigned light strip at the back and a rear grille with five fins per side, which connects to the rear window to form a graphic unit that fades into the retractable spoiler.
Inside, the 911 now features a 12.6-inch curved display as well as a 10.9-inch central driver’s information screen. Further changes include a driving mode switch, a revised driver assistance lever and this is the first 911 to come with a start button.
The suspension has also been revised with rear-axle steering now coming as standard. This enables a tighter turning circle and increased stability at speeds
The new 911 can be ordered now in coupe or cabriolet format with rear-wheel-drive. All models will come as standard with Porsche’s PDK automatic gearbox and GTS and Targa body styles are also available.
The performance has increased by around 10%, and so have the prices, and the T-Hybrid costs at least €170,600 in Porsche's home market of Germany. The base model, now with 394 hp, is cheaper and starts at €128,700.