HYBRID HOTTIE ADDED TO CAYENNE RANGE
Plug-in model gets 462hp and 918 Spyder ‘boost’ technology
Porsche has added hybrid power to its new third-generation Cayenne SUV range. The new model combines plug-in charging and a total system power of 462 metric horsepower with emissions as low as 72g/km. Fuel consumption on the NEDC cycle is rated at 88.3mpg.
Power comes from the familiar 3.0-litre turbo V6, tuned for 340hp, plus an electric motor good for 136hp. Porsche also reckons that well over 500lb ft of torque is available from just over tickover. All told, there’s enough thrust available to fling the large petrol-electric SUV to 62mph in five seconds flat. The model’s top speed is pegged at 157mph.
There have been hybrid Cayennes before, of course. But Porsche says the socalled 918 Spyder Boost concept is new with this mode. “It ensures that the electric motor can be used in all the driving modes of the Sport Chrono Package, fitted as standard, for an additional performance boost,” says Porsche. “This means the maximum system torque becomes available as you press the accelerator pedal. Depending on the driving situation and performance requirements, drivers can continue to draw on the boost torque across the entire range of speeds. This leads to a more agile and responsive driving experience.”
The extent of the boost support and battery charging during the journey depend on the driving mode. In performance-focused Sport and Sport Plus modes, virtually all of the battery's energy can be used for boost. In Sport mode, the battery is charged just as much as is required for a new boost. In Sport Plus mode, the battery is recharged as quickly as possible. The other modes support maximum driving efficiency.
As for battery capacity, that’s significantly up on the old model along with proportional increases pure-electric range and the boost reserves. Outright capacity of the fluid-cooled battery, which is composed of eight modules each with 13 prismatic lithium ion cells, grows from 10.8 to 14.1 kwh. Home charging via a regular wall socket takes 7.8 hours. Via a 32amp supply, a full charge is possible in just 2.3 hours.
The charging process can be managed and monitored via the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) and also remotely using the Porsche Connect app. The independent climate control, which allows adjustment of the heating and air conditioning when the ignition is switched off, is available as standard and can also be individually controlled via smartphone. Porsche Connect can also be used to find and filter charging stations and set them as a navigation destination. The new Cayenne E-hybrid is available to order at Porsche Centres in the UK and Ireland now, priced from £67,128 RRP. First customer deliveries will have taken place in late May.