Porsche's First Plug-In Hybrid: Introducing the 2014 Panamera S E-Hybrid

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The bubble-tailed Porsche Panamera seemed like a gamble when it was introduced on the heels of a massive global recession in 2009, but the German manufacturer has enjoyed the last laugh. No fewer than nine Panamera variants are currently available, ranging from the $78,100 base model to the new $161,100, extended wheelbase Turbo Executive version.

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The most technologically notable of the Panamera's latest iterations is the new S E-Hybrid model, which packs an electric motor producing 95 hp?more than twice the power of its predecessor?for a total system output of 416 hp. The souped-up lithium-ion battery now wields 9.4 kWh of capacity, far eclipsing the previous battery's 1.7 kWh. Using the onboard charger and the standard Porsche AC Universal charger with a 240-volt power source, the battery takes a full charge in around 2 1/2 hours.

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Panamera S E-Hybrid drivers will enjoy a claimed 0-60 mph time of 5.2 seconds, quicker than a Boxster, and a top speed of 167 mph. But the real distinction comes during around-town driving, where Porsche says the plug-in hybrid can travel more than 20 miles on electric power alone and hit up to 84 mph without assistance from the internal combustion six-cylinder engine. This model is also the only Panamera to use an 8-speed Tiptronic transmission, as opposed to Porsche's 7-speed Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) dual-clutch gearbox.

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While final EPA numbers remain to be seen, the S E-Hybrid's $99,000 cost of entry makes it a compelling alternative to its slower, humbler Panamera siblings and its speedier stablemates.?

Source: http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/news/auto-blog/2014-panamera-s-e-hybrid-porsches-first-plug-in-hybrid-15299961?src=rss

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