Porsche is plotting a faster version of its Panamera E-Hybrid, which could feature a V8 engine. Speaking at the Paris Motor Show, Porsche CEO Oliver Blume also revealed that diesel power is here to stay for the coming years.
The Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid, launched in Paris last night, is powered a 2.9-litre V6 engine but the new version could receive 4.0-litre V8 power. The extra performance would push the car into genuine supercar territory, and would likely be named Panamera S E-Hybrid.
As the V6 hybrid already develops 455bhp, a V8 version could conceivably come close to the 542bhp produced by the Panamera Turbo or the 562bhp Turbo S.
Like the new Panamera 4 E-Hybrid, a V8 variant would use the eight-speed PDK gearbox, and would likely feature four-wheel drive.
It is also feasible, but unconfirmed, that both powertrains could feature in a future Porsche Cayenne model. However Blume said there are no current plans to introduce hybrid variants of its 911, Boxster and Cayman ranges. He described the combination of a high performance engine and electric motors as attractive.
He also said that hybrids account for more than 10 per cent of sales in the model lines where the technology is offered. That figure is growing year on year. But he also said diesel power will remain extremely important over the coming years, particularly in Europe.
However Porsche is accelerating development of its electrified models, and is leading the VW Group’s work on developing a fast charging infrastructure.
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