Porsche 918 Spyder Concept Study

Geneva Motor Show press days, 2-3 March 2010: Porsche 918 Spyder Concept Study

It was eight years ago, in March 2010, that Porsche presented its first hybrid supercar, the 918 Spyder Concept Study, at the Geneva Motor Show. I was fortunate enough to be present at this launch, and what a sensation it caused, with its futuristic looking styling and powerful stance. Getting up close to the barriers was something of a challenge, until I was ushered inside the barriers and up close to the newcomer. The Porsche 918 Spyder Concept Study introduction at the Geneva show evidently caused quite a stir amongst those in the market for such a car, as interest was extremely high.

Geneva Motor Show press days, 2-3 March 2010: Porsche 918 Spyder Concept Study

The concept

The concept model was bristling with high-tech innovations and features. The press kit from the Geneva launch stated that the 918 Spyder Concept Study was powered by a hybrid engine and twin electric motors, giving the supercar a combined output of around 718 bhp at 9200 rpm. The engine, a V8 combustion engine, was a development of the highly successful 3.4-litre engine as used in the RS Spyder LMP2 racing car, and produced 500 bhp. Two electric motors, one on the front and one on the rear axle, added an additional mechanical output of 218 bhp.