Electrified mobility may seem like a recent development, but its history stretches back to the early 1900s — Ferdinand Porsche was a pioneer of battery-powered mobility, having designed the world’s first hybrid car. Unveiled as a prototype in 1900, the production version was released a year later.
In 2010, Porsche turned its focus once more on electrified drive systems through the release of the first Cayenne S Hybrid. The company then followed this up with more high-performance electrified models, like the Panamera S Hybrid, 911 GT3 R Hybrid race car, 918 Spyder hyper car, and the 919 Hybrid racer.
Coming from this spearheading technological expertise on hybrid powertrains is the new Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid SUV. Redefining performance and luxury by fusing these with high levels of efficiency, this Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) is now available at Porsche Philippines.
With the new Cayenne E-Hybrid, Porsche is placing an even greater focus on electrified performance. The PHEV model is capable of a longer driving range, shorter charging times, and has a higher system output. Allowing for these are a new, more powerful electric motor complemented by a bigger battery — enabling the vehicle to travel longer distances exclusively on electric power — and a new on-board charger that significantly cuts charging times. Plus, the on-board charger enhances energy recuperation while driving, further increasing the vehicle’s efficiency.
Paired to the new Cayenne E-Hybrid’s electric motor is a 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission. Combined, the combustion engine and electric motor produce 470 hp and 650 Nm of torque. The output can launch the vehicle from rest to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.
The PHEV model’s new battery allows the new Cayenne E-Hybrid to be driven on electric power alone for up to 90 kilometers. While doing this, an adaptive air suspension system guarantees supremely comfortable and controlled ride in any condition.
The driving modes of the new Cayenne E-Hybrid are designed to use the available energy as intelligently and efficiently as possible. In Sport and Sport Plus modes, the battery will continue to power the motor until it reaches minimum charge limits, improving efficiency because the vehicle operates mostly on electric power. A revised Hybrid-Auto mode helps enable the vehicle to be driven mostly on electric power, and allows for speeds of over 100 km/h before the combustion engine switches on.
Characterizing the new Cayenne E-Hybrid’s exterior are edgier Matrix LED headlights that ensure the best illumination regardless of driving condition, a more sculpted hood, and fenders that are sharply pronounced. Found in the rear are Porsche’s signature design touches like the sweeping taillights, three-dimensional Porsche lettering, and prominent roof spoiler.
Like any Porsche, the cockpit of the new Cayenne E-Hybrid has a driver-focused layout in which controls and functions directly related to driving are placed on, or immediately next, to the steering wheel. The assistance systems lever is on the left side of the steering wheel while the gear selector lever is on the right. Directly in front of the driver is the fully digital 12.6-inch instrument panel offering variable display options. Also fitted as standard is the 12.3-inch central Porsche Communication Management (PCM) display that provides access to infotainment, convenience, and vehicle functions.
With the Cayenne E-Hybrid, Porsche truly merges in one model its quintessential brand traits of performance, efficiency and everyday usability.