Porsche has announced that they are going to release their first hybrids in 2009. The Cayenne and the upcoming Panamera will both be offered with a hybrid powertrain.
Porsche, which owns a controlling stake in VW is going to use their relationship with VW to build the new vehicles.
"Going forward, Volkswagen is the key," Porsche executive Bernd Harling said. "Porsche's low volume means we're limited in our research and development. We must focus on what we can do best."
Porsche did most of the work for the upcoming Audi Q7 Hybrid SUV and the actual vehicle when they engineered the Cayenne.
The upcoming hybrids will be used to increase performance as well as fuel economy. Porsche will use a full hybrid system which will allow the vehicle to move up to 20 mph solely on the electric motor.
The relationship with VW may also pave the way for a diesel Porsche in the future.
Porsche doesn't expect their hybrids to be huge sellers, but they will do their part to prevent environmental criticism.
"Regardless of whether we use a diesel or a hybrid or hydrogen for power ... the heart of Porsche is to shoot for a limited volume of people who want the handling of a great sports car," Harling said.
Full Story: Detroit Free Press
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Comments (4)
I believe this might do it. It might be SO ridiculous for Porsche to contemplate a Hybrid, that we might all stop talking about how stupid it is that they make SUVs and Sedans.
Posted by Obviously DaMinority | May 15, 2007 5:54 PM
Posted on May 15, 2007 17:54
As if the Cayenne even being thought of wasn't insulting enough to the name of Porsche, they want to make a useless hybrid? Seriously, they need to stick to their core demographic and stop trying to pander to every idiotic trend. Next thing they'll be making a version with $100,000 rims and a spoiler the size of a 747.
Posted by Remy LeBeau | May 15, 2007 8:48 PM
Posted on May 15, 2007 20:48
A useless hybrid, huh? Environmental issues aside, what makes it useless? The better fuel economy? The added performance?
Posted by Tony | December 6, 2007 1:38 AM
Posted on December 6, 2007 01:38
I can't wait to buy 5 for my family!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
Posted by Mac Daddy The Busta | July 8, 2008 6:46 PM
Posted on July 8, 2008 18:46