The new Porsche Panamera E-Hybrid models continue to use the same powertrain architecture as their predecessors. The heart of this is the electric motor, which has a power output of 100 kW (136 PS) and 400 Nm of torque. In combination with the respective combustion engine fitted to each model and the boost strategy derived from the 918 Spyder super sports car, this results in a unique high-performance driving experience. The electric motor is integrated into the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK) and all plug-in hybrid models from Porsche are equipped as standard with the Sport Chrono package.
To further enhance the electric driving experience, the modes in which the high-voltage battery is charged during driving have been optimised. The new Panamera hybrid models start in E-Power mode as standard. As usual, the ideal mix of interaction between electric motor and combustion engine is controlled with the accelerator. The Hybrid assistant, which is accessible in the left-hand side of the instrument cluster display, visualises in real time the relationship between the torque currently used and the maximum available. The electric motor's maximum torque is reached when the accelerator pedal is depressed to an angle of approximately 50 per cent. In E-Power mode, the combustion engine is activated only with pedal angles from approximately 60 per cent. The noticeable free pedal travel between 50 and 60 per cent of the accelerator pedal angle ensures optimum electric driving control. If the high-voltage battery falls below the minimum charge level for the E-Power mode, the system automatically switches to the Hybrid Auto mode.
The intelligent Hybrid Auto mode offers the greatest operating efficiency for urban and cross-country driving. For the best possible combination of electric motor and combustion engine, the optimum operating strategy is continuously derived from information relating to driving profile, state of charge, topography, speed and navigation destination. All-electric driving is used in situations where, in terms of overall efficiency, it is the most appropriate option. Hybrid Auto mode also adapts optimally to the driver's habits. When route guidance is activated, the electric drive is used more intensively during urban driving in particular. The high-voltage battery is charged more on sections of road where the combustion engine is active.
In E-Hold mode, the state of charge of the high-voltage battery is maintained at the level recorded when the mode is selected. This means that the battery energy can be used at a later time for electric driving or boosting. In E-Charge mode, the combustion engine charges the battery when driving by generating a higher output than required for the current driving situation. This so-called load point shift provides the driver with the option of predictively increasing the electric range. The E-Charge mode of the new hybrid models follows an adapted charging strategy for the battery. The target charge level of the battery was reduced from the previous 100 to 80 per cent. The reason for this is due to the fact that the car's battery, like the one in a smartphone, charges significantly more slowly and less efficiently from a charge level of around 80 per cent. This also ensures that full recuperation power is available at all times. Specification of a constant charging power of 7.2 kW means that the battery is charged quickly and in a reproducible way. Overall, E-Charge mode is therefore now more efficient and can be experienced more directly than before.
In both the performance-oriented modes, Sport and Sport Plus, the combustion engine is always in operation. Sport mode offers extremely sporty vehicle characteristics for fast driving on country roads and motorways; in this mode, the drive system and chassis are switched to the Sport setup. The battery is charged to a minimum level to be able to provide a sufficient amount of boost for a sporty driving style. In Sport Plus mode, the focus in all Porsche models is on maximum sportiness: the drive and chassis are adapted for high performance. On the Panamera hybrid models, Sport Plus mode additionally differs from Sport mode due to the fact that the battery is charged as quickly as possible to 80 per cent. This takes place with a constant high charging power of 12 kW.
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