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Making its debut with the 911 Carrera GTS, find out how Porsche has harnessed innovative tech that make hybrids cool
by Khris Bharath on May 28, 2024, 13:00Porsche just unveiled the 911 Hybrid, and it’s a game changer. Hybrid tech is not new to the Porsche brand. Pretty much every model within the brand’s lineup with the exception of the 911 and the Cayman/Boxster pair have previously had hybrid variants. But that changes today, with the introduction of the first ever 911 hybrid. They’re calling it the Carrera GTS, and the headline feature is the revolutionary T-Hybrid system – the first of its kind for this iconic German sports car. However, unlike most hybrids that focus on efficiency, Porsche reiterates that the new 911 hybrid puts high performance and driving dynamics, front and center.
The Porsche 911 Features Revolutionary Hybrid-Tech
The T-Hybrid system is basically a lightweight powerhouse inspired by Porsche’s racing D.N.A. and models like the 919 Le Mans race car. It’s got this unique electric exhaust gas turbocharger or e-turbo that delivers compressed air to the engine immediately, in turn reducing turbo lag. No more waiting for that turbo to kick in – this electric motor nestled between the turbocharger components gives you instant power. This electric motor also doubles as a generator, using exhaust gas energy to crank out an extra 27 horsepower. Plus, Porsche has ditched the wastegate for a single, more responsive turbo, giving you sharper power delivery.
The T-Hybrid system further integrates seamlessly with a new eight-speed PDK transmission that houses a permanent magnet synchronous motor. The electric motor kicks in with up to 108 pound-feet of torque, and an additional 54 horsepower.
Porsche also went the extra mile to keep the weight down with a compact lightweight, high-voltage battery that sits up front. To put it into context, it’s about the same size as a regular 12-volt starter battery and is only 110 pounds more than a standard 911. With 1.9 kWh of energy storage and 400 volts, it packs a punch. Another cool feature? The high-voltage system powers the air conditioning electrically, which means Porsche has ditched the belt drive and made the engine even more compact.
The Hybrid Hardware Makes a Difference Where It Matters
The T-Hybrid system isn’t the only stand-out bit about the new 911. The Carrera GTS also boasts **a newly developed 3.6-liter flat-six boxer engine** that benefits from a larger bore and stroke, giving it an extra 36 cubic inches of displacement compared to the previous generation. And thanks to advanced camshaft control, the fuel-air mixture is always on point for maximum performance.
Even without the electric assist, this engine puts out 485 horsepower and 428 pound-feet of torque. Now, combine that with the electric motors which can also recoup energy, and you’re looking at 541 horsepower and 448 pound-feet of torque. That is a 61-horsepower jump over the previous generation, with the top speed at 194 mph. Porsche test driver and ex-F1 driver Mark Webber and Mat Watson, go head to head in a 1/4 mile drag race, where the new 911 Hybrid GTS takes on the outgoing model.
The base Carrera also gets an update. It packs a thoroughly revamped 3.0-liter twin-turbo boxer engine. Porsche snagged the intercooler from the Turbo models, which bumps up the power output to 394 horsepower. Even with this power boost, the engine manages to emit lower emissions.
The 911 Hybrid Packs Subtle-Styling Tweaks And Cutting-Edge Aero Upgrades
Both the Carrera GTS and Carrera benefit from significant upgrades in handling and aerodynamics. Standard rear-wheel steering keeps you stable at high speeds and tightens up the turning circle for sharper handling. Porsche also threw in an electro-hydraulic PDCC system for even more precise control. The Carrera GTS gets a variable damper system, a lowered ride height for sharp handling, and wider rear tires to improve grip.
Porsche didn’t neglect the aesthetics either. Carefully designed updates enhance aerodynamics, including new bumpers, sleek integrated matrix H-D LED headlights, and adaptive front diffusers. The Carrera Coupé takes things a step further with an optional aero kit that includes a distinctive front bumper, side sill panels, and a fixed rear wing for even more downforce.
Inside, the new 911 Carrera is a sweet blend of classic design and cutting-edge tech. A customizable 12.6-inch curved display displays all the essentials and controls are grouped around the steering wheel for quick and easy access. To sum it up, the 911 Hybrid is a showcase of how Porsche has embraced up-and-coming technologies in new and innovative ways. This is a new direction of hybrid tech and I can’t wait to see how the Porsche lineup evolves. Pricing for the new 911 starts at $120,000 MSRP with the GTS coming in at $164,900.
Khris Bharath
Khris is a Mechanical Engineer and a classic car aficionado, who adores his Jags, Alfas, and old-school American muscle cars. He keeps tabs on everything from super exotics like an old EB 110 to the latest from Lucid and geeks out on three-row family haulers. Formula One remains very close to his heart, and he diligently makes time to tune in for the Grand Prix on Sundays. Khris also loves his road trips and he prefers a stick shift over an auto. Read full bio
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