Porsche Underway With a Fully Electric Boxster Research Project
At a recent press conference, Dr. Nuesser, Porsche’s Director of Powertrain Development, confirmed that Porsche is currently working on a “Boxster-E” research Project. In this project, three electric Boxster research cars are being driven daily in order to provide insight into new electric drive components and new battery systems being developed by Porsche. In addition, these field tests are also intended to provide further findings on the infrastructure required for electromobility. Ultimately, the initiative will provide insight into how future products must be designed and produced in order to meet customer expectations.
These test cars are an important part of what Porsche recently dubbed its Porsche Intelligent Performance initiative, a long-standing commitment by Porsche to continually combine greater efficiency with high performance, thus lowering fuel consumption and emissions.
Dr. Nuesser explained that the mid-engine layout of the 987 series made the most sense for the electric peripherals needed to create a fully electric vehicle. Most importantly, the 987 series layout allows engineers to implement these peripherals and maintain a similar weight balance to the currently produced car.
This fully-electric sportscar, which is currently in research stages, could be expected as a production model after 2013 as shown by the chart displayed at the meeting.
Porsche has been committed to efficient motoring for a long time, thus helping to preserve the environment and save more of the world’s natural resources. For example, Porsche recently showed the spectacular 918 Spyder concept study earlier this year with a truly fascinating range of performance. This super sports car is capable of extremely low CO2 emissions and an estimated mileage figure of approximately 78 MPG, while developing over 600 horsepower for extreme performance.
