- Porsche continues to expand its range of "electro-mobility" solutions, as it begins testing the new Boxster E prototype.
- A pair of electric motors delivers a combined 240 horsepower.
- A lithium-ion battery pack provides a driving range of 100 miles between charges.
STUTTGART, Germany — Porsche has begun testing three prototypes of its new battery-powered Boxster E. The car was unveiled this week as part of a regional "electro-mobility" program across Germany that's being funded in part by the German government.
"Electric mobility will be one of Porsche's central challenges in the coming years, and our engineers are ready to meet the challenge with their usual high standards," said Porsche Chairman Matthias Mueller.
The Boxster E features a pair of electric motors that deliver a combined 240 horsepower, as well as a lithium-ion battery pack that enables a driving range of around 100 miles between charges. The pure electric drivetrain is said to provide 0-60 acceleration in 5.3 seconds.
Some of the hardware has been provided by parent Volkswagen, which is deep into development of hybrid and pure electric vehicles.
In terms of battery-powered vehicles, Porsche lags behind BMW and Mercedes-Benz, both of which have extensive EV development and test programs.
On Wednesday, Porsche released images and data on its latest gasoline-electric model, the Panamera S Hybrid, which will be publicly unveiled at the upcoming 2011 Geneva Auto Show.
Inside Line says: So far, no word on production plans for the Boxster E. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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a1c_scg says:
07:16 AM, 02/17/2011
I honestly think only a manufacturer like Porsche can pull off this whole hybrid/electric sportscar gig. Having pioneered the technology as it has, I personally don't have a problem w/ it. Of course, I'd rather have mine w/ a flat six and six speed, but I could see this car's merit and potential.....