Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid Spotted

I think India is getting along with Hybrid technology pretty well, considering the welcoming provided to the Toyota Prius and the recently spotted Porsche Cayenne S hybrid. Porsche’s plan to build a Hybrid version of its Cayenne SUV came true in 2007, when Porsche presented a functioning Cayenne Hybrid and demonstration model of the drivetrain.

So, how does this hybrid technology from Porsche set the big boy Cayenne S different from the others in the hybrid market? An electric motor is placed in between the engine and transmission (supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine and 8-speed transmission). With help of a specially used clutch, this allows the gas engine to separate at speeds of up to 155kph. This allows the car to do what Porsche calls “sailing” as it allows the big boy to move emission-free at much higher speeds.

Notable modifications to this car include an electric vacuum pump and hydraulic steering pump, allowing the car to function even when the engine is deactivated. A 288-volt nickel metal hydride battery is placed under the boot floor, occupying the space normally used for a spare tire. As a standard feature the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid is equipped with Electrically operated, 12-way seats in front, with electric fore/aft, height, seat back, and 4-way lumbar support adjustment, illuminated vanity mirror, (for the driver and passenger), Leather trimmed 3-spoke steering wheel with colored Porsche crest, folding rear seats, Seats trimmed with grained leather and 2 integrated cup holders in front and rear.

Optional features which keep your mind drooling include Porsche Entry and Drive (simply touch the door handle and the system automatically checks the encrypted access code on the key in your pocket), ParkAssist Front and Rear, Lane Change Assist (LCA), Adaptive Cruise Control, 8-way power seats and more. The Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid does not compromise on the sporty driving which Porsche has always been providing to its customers. It’s fitted with PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management), which is an electronic damping control system. It offers continuous adjustment of individual shock absorbers, based on current road conditions and driving style. The PASM remains active at all times. It automatically adapts to the prevailing driving conditions, raising the bar in car control, comfort and safety.

The Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid, the eco-friendliest of Porsches, is quite alone in the market. However, the BMW X6 and Lexus R450h can be considered, though they have their own flaws in fuel efficiency.