- Porsche introduces two new plug-in hybrid Panamera models, aiming to diversify electrification choices amidst market uncertainties.
- The Panamera 4 E-Hybrid and Panamera 4S E-Hybrid join the existing lineup, responding to growing demand for efficient hybrid systems.
- These models feature enhanced performance, larger battery capacity, and advanced charging capabilities, reflecting Porsche’s commitment to hybrid technology.
Porsche has released two new plug-in hybrid Panameras, aiming to counter market risks with broader electrification options. The German automaker hopes to address the growing market risk by offering a wider range of electrified choices. Last year, Porsche unveiled the third-generation Panamera, which included the Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid, the first of four Panamera E-Hybrid models to be introduced. Today, Porsche has added two more models: the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid and the Panamera 4S E-Hybrid, with a fourth model set to be announced later.
Porsche stated that the introduction of these two new hybrid models is in response to “the enormous demand in the market for efficient, dynamic E-Hybrid powertrains.” Indeed, as the growth of pure electric car sales slows, demand for hybrid vehicles is increasing across various markets.
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The price of the new hybrids won’t be cheap
Of course, being Porsche, the prices won’t be cheap. The starting price for the 4 E-Hybrid is $117,495, while the 4S E-Hybrid starts at $128,795 (including delivery charges). Pre-orders are set to begin at the end of March, with deliveries expected to start in the fall.
The Panamera 4 E-Hybrid will offer improved acceleration and higher torque with a new hybrid system paired with a “significantly enhanced” 2.9-liter V6 twin-turbocharged engine (producing 224 kW or 300 hp). The combined system power is 346 kW or 463 hp, with a maximum torque of 479 lb-ft, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds, and a top speed of 174 mph.
Meanwhile, the 4S E-Hybrid will also be equipped with a 2.9-liter six-cylinder engine, with slightly higher output at 260 kW or 348 hp. The Panamera 4S E-Hybrid can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 mph.
The new battery has a larger capacity
These two new models also boast higher charging speeds and improved throttle response. The new battery has a larger capacity, totaling 25.9 kWh, placing it at the forefront of plug-in hybrid cars. Porsche states that its capacity has increased by approximately 45% compared to the previous generation models.
Under suitable conditions, the 11 kW onboard AC charger can charge the battery in just two hours. As a supplement to the gasoline engine, the all-new electric motor can deliver 140 kW (187 hp) of power and 331 lb-ft of torque, stronger than the previous generation’s electric motor.
Both the 4 and 4S will start in fully electric E-Power mode upon startup. Porsche states that once the battery’s charge falls below a certain minimum level, the system will automatically switch to the hybrid auto mode, which manages the powertrain based on current driving conditions. The intelligent navigation system sends route information to the vehicle, and the hybrid auto mode processes this information to “optimize powertrain strategy.” For example, driving modes can be optimised to reduce energy consumption when driving in the city.
Two other driving modes, “E-Hold” and “E-Charge,” also offer unique advantages. In “E-Hold” mode, the current battery charge status remains unchanged. In electric charge mode, when the vehicle speed exceeds 34 mph, the internal combustion engine charges the battery to 80%.
In “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes, the target battery charge status for the battery is reduced to 20% and 30%, respectively (previously 30% and 80%), with the aim of extending battery life without sacrificing performance.
Porsche concentrates on the hybrid models
Porsche has been on a roll lately, announcing the launch of the all-electric Macan and the new Taycan with ultra-fast charging capabilities. However, as electric car sales decline, the automaker is hedging its bets by expanding its lineup of hybrid models.
Porsche has been involved in the hybrid field for over a decade, launching plug-in hybrid versions of the Cayenne and Panamera, as well as non-plug-in hybrid versions of the Panamera and Cayenne.
