Published: Mar 21, 2012

Porsche 918 Spyder Prototype Takes to the Track as Part of Development

Porsche EV Hybrids Prototype plug-in Supercars

The production version is set to be unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, and will be priced at $845,000 when it hits the showrooms.

Porsche recently invited Wired to test drive one of its three 918 development mules at the Nardo Test Track as it appears the plug-in hybrid supercar is getting ever closer to production. The prototype uses a 4.6-liter V8 engine sourced from an ALMS LMP2 RS Spyder, which produces 570hp, and is backed up by a pair of electric motors: a 121hp unit in the seven-speed transmission and a 107hp motor powering the front axle. Combined maximum output stands at 770hp and 553lb-ft of torque.

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This stretches to 700lb-ft for short periods courtesy of an overboost. As a result of this impressive output, 0-60mph can be achieved in three seconds en route to a 202 mph top speed. Given the supercar's hybrid drivetrain, there's also a 6.8 kWh battery that allows the 918 to travel around 16 miles on electricity alone. Once depleted, it can be recharged in approximately six hours with an 110V outlet, and just two hours with a rapid charger. Porsche are planning to use a 220kg carbon-fiber and aluminum chassis for the production vehicle that, which will help keep the curb weight down to 1,678kg.