During the recently held Paris Motor Show, Porsche unveiled its new Panamera hybrid with a high performance level. The new model also proved to have a superior drivetrain with minimal carbon dioxide emissions. According to Porsche, its hybrid lineup that is inclusive of the 919 Le Mans and 918 Spyder is clear proof that there is more meaning to the term hybrid than just environmental and economical sustainability. The term can also mean enhanced performance. Another faster hybrid version is under production, though the official details haven’t been revealed.

The new Porsche Panamera functions in the same way as the 918 whereby the electric motor kicks in once the driver pushes the accelerator. The electric motor generates a total power of 134 bhp, while the V6 engine generates 321 bhp. The previous model of the Panamera hybrid required depression of the pedal to at least eighty percent for maximum thrust to be provided by the powertrain. Contrary to the majority of hybrid cars that have continuously variable gearboxes, this new version of the Panamera hybrid has a dual-clutch (PDK) with eight-speeds. This serves as a replacement to the torque converter to give better efficiency and faster response time. The 2018 version is reported to do 0 to 60 in 4.6 seconds and reach a maximum speed of 87 mph using just electric mode.

There will be many driving modes for this new hybrid model. The Panamera hybrid will begin in the fully electric mode, though drivers can opt for the E-hold, which is beneficial in maintaining the current battery charge level. The E-Charge mode is used for recharging the batteries and the Hybrid Auto mode allows the vehicle to select a power source independently. The new Panamera hybrid can cover up to 31 miles solely on electric power. This means that electric power alone is sufficient to traverse numerous cities with no exhaust emissions released. There is the normal complement of Sport Plus and Sport driving options, which give ultimate performance instead of efficiency.

Additionally, the new hybrid car enjoys similar merits obtained from the upgrades incorporated in the standard car. It implies that there is an improved interior integrating touch-sensitive buttons, minimal divisive styling, and substantially improved comfort and refinement. Following its official reveal during the recent motor show, orders have already been received. Initial deliveries are anticipated to begin next year in April. The automaker is yet to offer official information regarding the car’s pricing. The key question is whether the hybrid Panamera as gas great and efficient as the traditional engine-powered vehicles. Consumers are yet to get a feel of the vehicle and only time will tell.