Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Cars
  3. News

Porsche reveals new 918 Spyder hybrid specs and tech; it’ll go 93mph on electricity alone

Stephen Edelstein
By

Porsche 918 Spyder black/red front three quarterPorsche is upping the horsepower of its 918 Spyder plug-in hybrid supercar from 795 to 887, and it has some updated specifications to go with that increased output. Stutgartt is also revealing more about the 918’s programmable driving modes and other tech.

As we previously reported, the total output of the 918’s 4.6-liter V8 and three electric motors is now 887 hp and 940 pound-feet of torque. Porsche says that will propel the car from 0 to 62 mph in 2.8 seconds, and to a top speed of at least 213 mph. It will also lap the Nürburgring in 7:14.

Recommended Videos

In addition to being powerful, the 918 Spyder will also be (relatively) lightweight. It’s official curb weight is 3,715 pounds; an optional Weissach package will trim it to 3,616 pounds. That means the 918 will probably be a little heavier than rivals like the Ferrari LaFerrari and McLaren P1, but neither of those cars have all-wheel drive.

Related

918 drivers will also be able to choose how they want to deploy this power. There will be five driving modes: E-Power, Hybrid, Sport Hybrid, Race Hybrid, and Hot Lap.

In all-electric E-Power mode, the default setting, the 918 will cruise on battery power for up to 18 miles. Even without the V8, it will still do 0 to 62 mph in 7.0 seconds and reach a top speed of 93 mph. Not supercar stuff, but not bad for an EV, either.

The three hybrid modes balance fuel efficiency with power output in varying degrees, until the driver gets to Hot Lap mode. In this mode, speed is the only concern; the battery isn’t even charged.

Porsche 918 Spyder black/red rear three quarterAlso helping the 918 Spyder achieve its mind-bending performance numbers is a suite of new technology.

In addition to all-wheel drive, the 918 will have a four-wheel steering system like the one Porsche just debuted on the 2014 911 Turbo. At low speeds, it steers the rear wheels opposite the fronts to tighten the turning radius. All wheels turn in the same direction at higher speeds to increase stability.

The Porsche supercar also has an active aerodynamic system with three modes. In Race mode, the most aggressive, extra spoilers and flaps deploy to better channel air around the car, increasing downforce.

Porsche may have made some last-minute changes to the 918, but one thing that hasn’t changed is the price. The world’s first production plug-in hybrid supercar will cost $845,000. Only 918 examples will be made, with deliveries beginning on September 18 (yes, 9/18), 2013.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Stephen Edelstein
Stephen Edelstein
Contributing Editor
Stephen is a freelance automotive journalist covering all things cars. He likes anything with four wheels, from classic cars…
Rivian R2 vs Hyundai Ioniq 5: Should you wait for the Rivian R2?
Rivian R2

Rivian has taken the wraps off of the Rivian R2, an electric SUV that's similar to the much-loved R1S, but smaller and, crucially, cheaper. But the R2 goes up against some serious competition. The likes of Hyundai have been building solid EVs for some time now -- including the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

The R2 and the Ioniq 5 each make a compelling case for themselves, and they're likely to end up being similarly priced if the Ioniq 5 doesn't get much cheaper and the R2 does end up being sold at $45,000. To be fair, the cars are pretty different -- the R2 is more of an SUV, while the Ioniq 5 is much more crossover-sized. But because of their similar price, you might be deciding between the two. How do they compare? We put the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 head-to-head.
Design
The differences between the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 are perhaps no more apparent than when it comes to design.

Read more
The 6 best remote car starters in 2024
Best car remote starters

While some modern vehicles come standard with remote start features, it's still relatively uncommon. That's a shame because if you live somewhere where cold weather, snow, and ice are frequent concerns, a remote car starter is one of the best auto accessories you can have. If you're not familiar with them, a remote car starter works similarly to a key fob, except it will actually start your car from a distance instead of just unlocking the doors or trunk. That means you can start your car from the warm comfort of your home or office before venturing out. If you live somewhere hot, you can even start your car and let the AC run for a little bit. You'll never enter a freezing cold or scorching hot vehicle again.

The best remote car starters have long ranges, replaceable batteries, and other handy features — but how do you know which is best for you? We’ve compiled a list of the best car starters in a range of prices and features. Keep in mind that while you can install some yourself, some will require a professional.
The best remote car starters in 2024

Read more
The best portable jump starters for cars in 2024
The Clore Jump-N-Carry JNC660 portable jump starter connected to a truck battery.

Any time you hit the road, whether you're taking a short or long trip, it's a good idea to have backups handy. A spare or backup tire, some anti-freeze, windshield wash fluid, a road hazard kit, and, last but not least, one of the best portable tire inflators and a portable jump starter. You never know when cold weather, inadvertently leaving the dome light on, or plain old Father Time can curse you with a dead battery. Ensure you have one of the best portable jump starters that can save you in a jam, kickstarting your car even when there isn't anyone around to jump the battery. Naturally, that's why we’ve rounded up what we feel are the best portable jump starters for 2024.
The best portable jump starters in 2024

Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter overall.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter runner-up.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter and tire inflator combo.
Buy the if you want another name-brand option.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter for cheap.

Read more