New hybrid announced by Porsche

New car technology may open new doors for engineering students

During the recent Frankfurt Auto Show, the president and CEO of Porsche Michael Macht announced that his company would release a gas-electric hybrid sports car to compete with other such vehicles already on the market.

Macht made the announcement shortly after discussing four new offerings from the company's 911 product line in detail. All of them are gas only vehicles, but the fact that he mentioned the hybrid in the same address as the new 911s left some with the impression that a hybrid 911 may be on the way.

"Maybe in the not-too-distant future also in a racing car or a production 911. Why not?" hinted Macht, quoted by Motortrend.

While Macht's comments showed a commitment to developing an electric sports car, he mentioned that its current battery technology is not yet at a level where it can compete with other hybrid sports cars. "An electric sports car would therefore only make sense for Porsche if it offers performance and a cruising range similar to that of current sports cars in the market," said Macht, quoted by Car and Driver Magazine.

The release last year of the Tesla roadster along with Porsche's plan show that there is interest in developing high-performance hybrid powertrains. Those interested in studying this cutting edge engineering should discuss specific programs with counselors at the engineering schools of their choice.