Porsche Offers First Look at Cayenne Hybrid Prototype

Porsche Offers First Look at Cayenne Hybrid Prototype

Porsche confirmed that its engineers are hustling to squeeze approximately 26 mpg out of the full-hybrid system in its upcoming Cayenne Hybrid. The German automaker has released its first image of the Cayenne Hybrid, building up anticipation for the vehicle's launch at the end of the decade. Porsche said it is targeting average fuel consumption of about 24 mpg in the U.S. and added that "future developments may allow Porsche engineers to push towards an average fuel consumption figure of approximately 26 miles per gallon."

Porsche explained that the Cayenne Hybrid gets a full-hybrid design "where the hybrid module [clutch and electric motor] is positioned between the combustion engine and the transmission rather than having the hybrid drivetrain branching output along various lines and in various directions via a planetary gearset." This design is said to be "more compatible" with the existing Cayenne platform, improving acceleration and "engine flexibility."

The Cayenne Hybrid's power steering and vacuum pump for the brakes and the air-conditioning operate on electric power, further cutting fuel consumption. The Cayenne Hybrid also is outfitted with electrohydraulic steering, which Porsche describes as a "first for a vehicle of its kind."

Porsche confirmed that it plans to introduce "similar hybrid technology in a version of its Panamera four-door Gran Turismo" at the end of the decade.