918 RSR (Germany, 2011)

Porsche unveiled the 918 RSR at the North American International Auto Show 2011. The 918 RSR is a concept car, a synthesis of the brand's 2010 hybrid concepts: the 911 GT3 R hybrid and the 918 Spyder.

With the 918 RSR, Porsche further extends its performance and high efficiency competence with the development of hybrid technology. The two-seater mid-engine coupé 918 RSR combines the technology fitted in the 911 GT3 R Hybrid and the design of the 918 Spyder.

Porsche decided to incorporate the hybrid technology featured on the 911 GT3 R Hybrid into what is the motor sports version of the 918 Spyder concept car. The technology caught the attention when competing on the Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit, during the American Le Mans Series races (ALMS) in Road Atlanta/USA and the ILMC run in China's Zhuhai. In fact the 911 GT3 R Hybrid has surpassed the expectations of Porsche Motorsport, making its technology an option for other Porsches.

Porsche designers have gone back to classic Porsche long-distance race cars such as the 908 long-tale coupé (1969) and the 917 short-tail coupé (1971), for inspiration, bringing back with a new touch the "form follows function" philosophy. The look of the 918 RSR is dominated by the muscular wheel arches, dynamic air intakes and a pulpit-like cockpit. Its racing laboratory function is emphasized by the visible fan wheel between the ram air intake tubes and a rear spoiler with RS Spyder dimensions.

The 918 RSR is powered by a further development of V8 direct injection engine that featured on the RS Spyder race car. The engine has a power output of 563 hp at 10,300/rpm. Combined with the two 75 kW electric motors, located on the two front wheels, the 918 RSR delivers a maximum of 767 hp. This additional power, which is generated during braking, is stored in an optimised flywheel accumulator.

Contrasting with the 918 Spyder concept car, the interior of the 918 RSR doesn’t feature racing atmosphere elements. The driver’s seat is occupied by a figure-hugging bucket seat in brown leather. The cockpit of the 918 RSR is split by a minimalistic console with rocker switches. Instead of featuring an extra seat, the flywheel accumulator is positioned to the right of the console. The flywheel accumulator is responsible for energy recovery. The charging occurs when the two electric motors on the front axle reverse their function during braking processes and operate as generators. This energy can be used during acceleration or overtaking manoeuvres only by pushing a button.