Porsche’s hyper-hybrid Sedan (and Sport Turismo Wagon) is perhaps the most complex car that Porsche has ever built. The Turbo S E-Hybrid has four wheel drive, four wheel steering, active aero, three-chamber air ride suspension, and power-boosting electric motors. This Porsche is even more advanced than the 918 Spyder hypercar was from a drivetrain perspective (Turbos and four-wheel steer at a minimum), but then has to add in the complexity of long-haul comfort, futuristic infotainment, and massive interior space. If there were ever to be a company that could merge comfort with serious hybrid performance, it’d be Porsche. Thanks to this intricate pair of videos from MotoManTV on YouTube, we finally understand the full depth of Porsche’s genius when it comes to this beastly hybrid.
In the first of his two videos, George (MotoMan) gives us a walk around a pair of Panamera show pieces to illustrate some of that technological advancement. The first of the two sections of Panamera shows off the drivetrain configuration and battery-electric assist. The second “car” is a complete body that helps to demonstrate how the high-strength steel and aluminum and composite panels are “sewed” and bonded together. There is clearly a lot of engineering that went into making this chassis stiff enough and strong enough to handle a total system output of 680 horsepower, while still being quiet and comfortable enough to haul your whole family across the country in speed and comfort.
Part 1 –
In the second video, we’re treated to a walk around the car to show off the details of the design, plus a discussion of the interior accouterments. George also has the opportunity to show off just what this S E-Hybrid is capable of on track. It isn’t likely that many Panamera owners will take their super luxury sedans on track at any point, but it proves that like all other Porsches, it’s still comfortable in that environment. If you’ve ever been a Panamera Skeptic, spend a few minutes watching these two videos, and you’ll find yourself with a new appreciation of this mega car.
Part 2 –