Description:
Porsche have unveiled a brand new racing version of their popular 911 GT3, and the amazing news is that it is powered by an innovative new hybrid drive system. The companies racing record stands at over 20,000 wins over its 45 year history and they are hoping that the new Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid will spearhead future successes from 2010 and beyond. After launching at the Geneva motor show Porsche are going to test the 911 GT3 R Hybrid in a series of long distance races at the Nurburgring, one of the tests will run for the duration of the 24 hour race on the 15th and 16th of May. Porsche have described the 911 GT3 R Hybrid as a 'racing laboratory' that can be used to test further developments in hybrid technology in one of the toughest environments possible for a car before applying these new technologies in road going vehicles. The 911 GT3 R Hybrid excels at racing thanks to its two front mounted electric motors that supplement the standard 480 bhp 4.0 litre flat six engine that sits at the rear of the vehicle. This makes the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid a "four" wheel drive in effect offering greater control and stability. A flywheel generator connecting to the braking system of the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid helps keep the batteries topped up; whenever the brakes are applied the two electric motors reverse their function on the front axle and begin to work as generators, the driver can then engage an extra boost of power from the charged flywheel generator on demand. It is intended that this function provides an extra kick of torque for overtaking or when accelerating away from a corner. With each charge taking just 6-8 seconds there is no reason that this cannot be used many times in a race. As the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid is a grand tourer and will be entering a number of endurance challenges the hybrid drive can be used not only for extra power but also for extra efficiency, the electric drive supplementing the petrol engine can either allow for a much smaller fuel tank (and lighter vehicle as a result) or allow for far less pit stops during the course of a race. The new Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid is certainly one to watch for the future, as all of the technologies developed and implemented on it have a chance of filtering down to be used in road going vehicles.
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