Unveiling the Beast: Porsche 911 GTS's Hybrid Revolution That Shakes the Sports Car World
The Porsche 911 GTS has long been a benchmark for sports cars, but with its latest iteration, it catapults into a league of its own. This is not just an evolutionary step; it’s a revolutionary leap. At the heart of this beast lies a newly developed 3.6-liter flat-six engine, supersizing the familiar 3.0 twin-turbo unit used in the Carrera and previous GTS models. Though the displacement is larger, it maintains the same length/stroke ratio that purists will appreciate. But what's truly groundbreaking is the integration of high-voltage (400V) electrical systems, making traditional belt drives and separate starter motors a relic of the past.
Engineered for Excellence
The internal combustion engine itself is a marvel, revving up to 7500rpm while delivering a robust 478bhp and 420lb-ft torque. But that’s just scratching the surface. The pairing of the new engine with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, a mainstay in the previous-gen 911, sets the stage for unprecedented performance. Integrated within this gearbox is a permanent magnet synchronous drive motor, contributing an additional 54bhp and 111lb-ft torque.
Instead of traditional twin-turbocharging, Porsche introduces a single, larger turbocharger, equipped with its own motor. This allows for quicker spool-up times or sustained turbo speeds, facilitated by the 1.9kWh battery nestled under the front boot lid. Both the drive motor and e-turbo motor draw power from this battery, even regenerating power kinetically to boost overall efficiency and performance.
A Technological Tour de Force: T-Hybrid Powertrain
The culmination of these advancements results in what Porsche dubs the T-Hybrid powertrain. The combined output is a staggering 534bhp and 450lb-ft torque. Porsche's meticulous engineering doesn't stop there. Despite the additional tech, the GTS manages to keep weight gain to a modest 50kg, with the RWD coupé clocking in at 1595kg. While you can opt for configurations like the Carrera coupé, Cabriolet, or Targa with either rear- or four-wheel drive, the handling dynamics are further enhanced with standard rear-wheel steering and a suspension system that's 10mm lower than the Carrera's, featuring PASM adaptive dampers.
For the true aficionados who crave customizability, the rear seats are now a no-cost option. This weight-saving measure may very well tip the scales for those focused on attaining ultimate performance. However, it’s worth mentioning that the 4WD Targa 4 GTS weighs a heftier 1745kg unladen. Even so, the 911 GTS remains lighter than most of its class competitors, such as the Aston Martin V8 Vantage.
Next-Gen Aerodynamics and Electronics
Apart from the mechanical marvels, the new 911 GTS flaunts advanced aerodynamics, including active aero slats and a redesigned rear light strip. Wider rear tires (315/30 R21) and front ones (245/35 R20) ensure optimal grip and stability, while the option for roll-stabilising PDCC is set to debut by late 2024. Thanks to the 400V electrical system, this electrohydraulic option promises to deliver unmatched handling precision.
Carrying the Torch: Carrera and Beyond
Let’s not forget the other half of the story: the Carrera models also benefit from this influx of technology. The 3.0-liter engine in the Carrera now adopts turbos from the previous GTS and benefits from a charge cooler borrowed from the Turbo, bumping the power output to 389bhp. Rear-wheel steering becomes a standard feature, paired with larger brakes for more responsive handling. Though it misses out on the GTS's front aero slats, it doesn’t skimp on interior upgrades that ensure a refined driving experience.
The 911 GTS and Carrera represent the cutting edge of Porsche's pursuit of perfection. From their innovative hybrid powertrains to advanced aerodynamics and customizable features, they embody the spirit of relentless innovation. Whether you’re a purist or a tech enthusiast, these models promise to deliver an unparalleled driving experience.