Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid: 78 mpg,3.2 to 60

Here’s a concept car that appeals to both environmentalists and road warriors. The Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid debuts today at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. Just like any other hybrid, this Spyder relies on an electric-gasoline engine tandem to keep gas consumption down, while retaining power.

But not just any hybrid has a V8 with 500 horses, and one electric motor per axle, for a total of 718 horsepower under the (figurative) hood. The 918 Spyder hybrid can hit 60 in 3.2 seconds and max out at 198 miles per hour, so says the German maker. At the same time Porsche has claimed a maximum mileage of 78 miles per gallon, with an emission of 70 grams of CO2 per kilometer.

Two different power sources mean four different settings, allowing the perfect mix between minimal gas consumption and maximum performance. E-Drive mode relies only on the electric motors, for a maximum reported range of 16 miles. Hybrid and Sport Hybrid are meant for everyday driving, the latter providing a bit more power to the reare wheels. Race Hybrid asks both the gasoline and electric engines to do their best, and provides the most power available.

Autoblog reports that the Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid also has a push-to-pass button, which unleashes a little electric power to assist overtaking. It’s just too bad there are no plans to bring this car to even limited retail, as the Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid is a concept car.

Image: Autoblog