Porsche 911 GTS goes hybrid for 534bhp and blistering track pace

Porsche 911 project leader Frank Moser said: “We produce the energy on board. It always recuperates – under acceleration, during braking and on a trailing throttle. Even at the 312kph [194mph] top speed, we continue to store kinetic energy in the battery.”

The new single turbo replaces the twin exhaust-driven units fitted to the existing 3.0-litre engine, which will continue to be offered in certain 911 models. Porsche says the introduction of an electric compressor increases the acceleration of the exhaust gas through the turbo, leading to a faster and more linear build-up of boost pressure over a wider range of revs for added response and acceleration.

“Our testing reveals a significant gain in performance, particularly during standing starts. After 2.5sec, the new 911 GTS travels 7.0m further than the old model, at 21.5m, without the aid of launch control,” said Moser. “This compares to the 17.0m measured for the 911 Turbo S.”

On its own, the new flat six develops 479bhp for a specific output of 133bhp per litre, along with 420lb ft of torque.

The ZF disc-shaped electric motor is integrated within the front section of the standard eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, generating 54bhp and 111lb ft at up to 7500rpm.

Together, the two power sources deliver peak power at 6500rpm and 450lb ft of torque on an impressively flat and extended range between 1950rpm and 6000rpm.

The packaging of the 400V lithium ion battery and a pulse inverter used to power the electric motor within the front of the 911 has led to a six-litre reduction in the size of the fuel tank, at 84 litres. The smaller 12V lithium ion battery, meanwhile, has been relocated to a position underneath the rear seat.

The new GTS is being launched in rear-driven form but Porsche confirms the T-Hybrid system is also compatible with four-wheel drive, suggesting future incarnations of the 911 Turbo and Carrera 4 will benefit from the new drivetrain technology.

Porsche has significantly improved the aerodynamic efficiency of the 911 with new active front air ducts on each side, which have louvres that open and close depending on the cooling demands of the radiators and brakes.

The lower part of the facelifted 911’s front bumper is now occupied by radar and ultrasonic sensors, with the indicator functions now incorporated within the standard LED matrix headlight clusters.