Photo credit: Porsche
Fifteen years after its experimental 911 GT3 R Hybrid first raced at the Nürburgring, Porsche continues to demonstrate its commitment to diverse powertrains with record-setting runs at Road Atlanta. Brand ambassador Patrick Long tackled the 2.54-mile circuit in two different Porsche models to prove that combustion, hybrid and electric systems can all deliver Porsche-typical performance.
In the Cayenne Turbo GT, Long recorded an SUV lap time of 1 minute 34.38 seconds. The high-performance SUV pairs a 650-horsepower twin-turbo V8 with upgraded suspension components—including unique hub carriers and an extra center differential cooler—to maintain consistent all-wheel-drive dynamics under track conditions. Despite its full-size SUV proportions, the Cayenne impressed with rapid heating, precise handling and a distinctive V8 soundtrack.
Long then piloted the new Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid to a lap of 1 minute 30.98 seconds, shaving more than half a second off the previous sedan record. The model combines a twin-turbo V8 and electric boost for 771 total horsepower, carbon ceramic brakes and track-focused performance tires. Its Active Ride hydraulic suspension system optimizes body control and tire contact, while seamless regeneration and power transitions enhance braking and acceleration.
“The Cayenne is full of contradictions about what a sports car can be, and the Panamera shows how hybrid technology can improve both performance and efficiency,” Long said. He added that lessons from the GT3 R Hybrid program—including torque vectoring and energy management—have influenced road-going models from the 918 Spyder to today’s plug-in hybrids.
