The all-new Porsche 911 Turbo S, now boasting a hybrid powertrain, has just obliterated expectations with a stunning lap time at the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife. Clocking in at 7:03.92, this marks a significant 14-second improvement over its predecessor, solidifying its position as a remarkably fast, yet surprisingly practical, sports car.
Behind the wheel was Porsche factory driver Jörg Bergmeister, expertly navigating the challenging Green Hell. To ensure safety and optimize performance, the vehicle was equipped with a full roll cage, a racing seat, and a harness – standard practice for Nürburgring runs and Porsche's rigorous testing protocols. Some interior trim was removed to offset the added weight of the safety equipment, contributing to the car’s slightly amplified sound compared to a standard 911 Turbo S.
Crucially, the vehicle utilized standard production Pirelli P-Zero R N-spec tires, not specialized track-day rubber. This underscores the impressive performance capabilities of the new hybrid powertrain. While Goodyear Eagle Supersport 3R tires are an alternative option, the choice to use Pirelli's further highlights the remarkable achievement.
The heart of this performance lies in Porsche's innovative "T-Hybrid" powertrain. Similar to the 911 Carrera GTS, but significantly boosted, this system utilizes electric turbos – motors integrated into the turbocharger shafts. This allows for almost instantaneous boost pressure and energy recovery, enhancing both power and efficiency. Coupled with the twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter flat-six engine and an additional electric motor situated between the engine and the eight-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission, the total output reaches a potent 701 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque.
Aerodynamic enhancements play a crucial role. The Turbo S boasts updated active aerodynamics, including adjustable shutters in the grille, a deployable front splitter, an adjustable front diffuser, and a deployable rear wing. Further refining the handling is the updated Dynamic Chassis Control, which utilizes the 400-volt hybrid system for rapid anti-roll bar adjustments. Wider rear tires (325/30ZR21) and larger carbon-ceramic brakes round out the performance package.
While numerous vehicles have achieved sub-7-minute lap times at the Nürburgring, it's vital to remember that this isn't a dedicated track car. Porsche’s focus remains on blending exhilarating performance with everyday usability, a philosophy not typically seen in GT2 or GT3 variants. The 911 Turbo S's lap time, while impressive, falls behind dedicated track cars like the Ford Mustang GTD, Corvette ZR1 and ZR1X, which benefit from more aggressive aerodynamic packages and grippier tires. Yet, this achievement is a testament to Porsche's engineering prowess in creating a high-performance hybrid without compromising everyday drivability.
---
Originally published at: https://www.motor1.com/news/771564/porsche-992-turbo-s-hybrid-nurburgring-time/
