Porsche Targeting Hybrid Cayenne for 2009; Flex-Fuel Model Also in Works

23 July 2007

Citing rising environmental concerns among car buyers, Porsche said Monday that it is developing a hybrid drivetrain for its Cayenne SUV with the intention of achieving average fuel consumption of 8.9 l/100km (26.4 mpg US), with a planned unveiling in 2009.

The Cayenne’s current fuel consumption with a conventional six-cylinder engine is 12.9 l/100km (18.2 mpg US). The projected 31% decrease in fuel consumption is a more aggressive target than Porsche floated when it first announced in 2005 at the Frankfurt IAA that it was developing a hybrid drive for the Cayenne based on the Volkswagen/Audi hybrid drive. (Earlier post.)

Porsche said its decision to develop the hybrid drive is a reaction to the issue of climate change and rising concerns among consumers about the environmental friendliness of their cars.

In particular, a premium carmaker such as Porsche must offer competitive drivetrain solutions with low consumption- and emission levels.

—Company statement

The Cayenne can now be driven on ethanol mixtures of up to 25%, according to the company. A full flex-fuel version is under development.

The hybrid technology is also slated to be used for Porsche’s planned four-door sporting premium model, Panamera.