Parallel Dimension 918 Spyder

Two different dimensions have come across each other’s path and collided to form a whole new dimension. Let’s think of it as 4D. Why? Because when have you seen a supercar be so careful and kind like a hybrid? Sort of like a lion that’s as gentle as a butterfly, or a elephant that dumps as much as an ant. A chilli that attacks your nerves like a ice cream. It’s all unheard of.

So we thought, until we set eyes and ears on Porsche’s new creation, the 918. A supercar that combines maximum performance with minimal consumptions. Originally a prototype race car for the Le Mans race series, now given the green light to be made into a road version for a lucky few. A limited number will come into production and into a luxury home of course as it won’t be a cheap buy. Sharing its looks from its predecessor, the Porsche Carrera GT and some finishing touches from the Legendary Le Mans winner the 917.

We have heard a lot of talk about what is in it and what isn’t, because the road car differentiates from its racing sibling the 918 RSR racing variant. What we can make out is this: It has a 4.6L V8 engine mid mounted, producing 580hp/430kw plus another 280hp/210kw from one electric motor powering the front axle and another hybrid module that’s joined to the 7-speed PDK dual clutch gearbox, powering the rear axle. Total output is 770hp/574kw and endless torque. 0-100km/h in 3 seconds. Top speed in electric mode is 250km/h with a range of 30km and 330km/h in full attack race mode. Fuel consumption is 3L/100km or 94mpg and a tiny 70g/km of CO2. (0_0)

It also features a KERS or brake recuperating energy system like a Formula one car and stores its energy in a Lithium-ion battery pack behind the driver cell, which can be accesses in short bursts and it’s also a Plug in hybrid if you run out of juice. Made from all sort of exotic materials it keeps its weight down to a mearly 1 490kg. The Porsche 918 Spyder will go into production by September 2013 and first clients will receive their machines before year end.

This could well be the beginning of a new era not just for Porsche but for supercars to follow.

JohnV