Another breakthrough is the thermal management and regenerative braking systems of the 918 Spyder, which have already inspired changes. A similar form of this energy recovery system is implemented in the LMP1 prototypes of the 919 Hybrid, the very model which triumphed a one-two victory at the 24 hours of Le Mans. The 918 Spyder’s technology platform also blazed new trails with spectacular design solutions like its all-carbon body, fully variable aerodynamics and adaptive rear axle steering, with these last two examples already available in production sports cars such as the 911
Uniting these technological breakthroughs into one, the 918 Spyder set history at the Nürburgring in September 2013 with a lap time of 6 minutes and 57 seconds, a feat that stands unrivalled even today for road vehicles. Yet its fuel consumption is just 3 l/100 km, a number that not only beats most of the small vehicles of today, but also sets a benchmark for what is possible for the future. With the 918 Spyder, the potential of plug-in hybrid technology is clearly showcased for all to see — not only for more economical, sustainable driving, but more importantly for the unparalleled sports car experience it can offer.
Only 918 editions of the 918 Spyder exist in the world. As such, it is not only the pinnacle of modern sports car design and technology representing an important turning point in hybrid engineering; it is also a collector’s item and a masterpiece in its own right.
All legacies start somewhere. One starts right now with the 918 Spyder.
Text: Nicholas Echevarria
918 Spyder
Power: 652 kW (887 hp)
Acceleration from 0–100 km/h: 2.6 secs
Top Speed: 345 km/h
Fuel Consumption Combined: 3 l/100 km
CO2 Emission Combined: 70 g/km
