Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid

By Conor Mills

11th February 2010

HERE’S the car that proves Porsche is on a full charge when it comes to hybrids! Called the 911 GT3 R, this racer will make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show, revealing a host of new technology that will be seen on roadgoing models very soon.

Its hybrid system features a front axle powered by two 60kW electric motors while the rears are driven by a newly developed 473bhp 4.0-litre flat-six cylinder engine. Instead of batteries, the GT3 R features a flywheel generator, which stores up energy from whenever the driver applies the brakes. What’s more the two electric motors can operate in reverse, also acting as generators.

Like the KERS systems used in Formula One, the driver can call upon this extra energy for a competitive advantage – such as when overtaking. It also helps save fuel too. After it appears in Geneva, the GT3 R will begin a rigurous development schedule, culminating in the Nurburgring 24hr endurance race in May.

From these tests engineers hope the car will provide them with valuable information which they can then incorporate into road cars. Before then, expect to see the new 4.0-litre engine in the new 911, due next year.

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