Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid, the new racer

Based on the rear-drive 911 GT3 R that’s set to take to the track in privateer hands later this year, the GT3 R Hybrid can finally be seen in a set of high-quality pictures. Porsche also revealed more info on the new racer, even if the official specs release is still due.

The GT3 R Hybrid is powered by a 480-hp 4.0-liter flat-six in conjunction with two electric motors that drive the front wheels. Front powering is no surprise of course, but how the system works is yet a bit of a mystery, Porsche built in a flywheel that captures electrical energy from braking right under the usual position of the driver’s sit. Spinning at 40,000 rpm, this contraption stores the energy and sets it loose also on the front wheels, 120 kilowatts worth – approximately 160 horsepower. The result is a powerful burst of speed that lasts six to eight second bursts. You activate this burst at will, using of a steering wheel-mounted button. Reminds me of X-Racer…

The GT3 R Hybrid’s world debut will take place at the Geneva Motor Show before it hits the track for its motor-sports debut at the Nürburgring 24 Hours on May 15. It seems this is a decision made after the “judge and jury” over at LeMans started to favour hybrid cars, even if initially Porsche management stated it does not rush to create hybrid sports cars…

Read more and all in the Press Release, hit the blue button.

[ PHOTO GALLETY: PORSCHE 911 GT3 R HYBRID ]: