On January 5th, Porsche announced the world premiere for the highly anticipated four-door Gran Turismo, the "Panamera." The venue will be "Auto Shanghai," held from April 20th to 28th.

The Panamera's world debut is scheduled for a press conference on the 19th. Sales are announced to begin at the end of summer.

Furthermore, Porsche announced that the hybrid model of the "Panamera" will be launched by 2010.

The components will feature a parallel full-hybrid system, also to be used in the Cayenne Hybrid scheduled for market introduction by 2010. The Cayenne development vehicle has already achieved a fuel consumption of 100km per 9 liters, which translates to 11.1 km/l.

This hybrid system consists of a battery unit housed within the luggage compartment, power electronics, and a hybrid module (second clutch & electric motor) positioned between the engine and transmission. It allows for switching between the engine and electric motor, or using them simultaneously, depending on driving conditions.

This enables everything from eco-driving using only the electric motor to the sporty driving experience that only Porsche can offer.

The base model with an internal combustion engine is slated for market introduction in 2009, with the hybrid model to be added later based on market trends.

BRAND HISTORY
PORSCHE, a leading German sports car brand, commands overwhelming support from discerning drivers worldwide. Its origins trace back to 1931. Ferdinand Porsche, a prodigy who distinguished himself as an automotive engineer in his twenties, established "Porsche Design Studio" in Stuttgart, Germany, after a tenure as technical director at Daimler, to embark on his independent venture. From then on, he was entrusted with the development of various vehicles by automobile manufacturers. Among his most famous works is the "Volkswagen Beetle," which significantly contributed to motorization as Germany's "people's car."

The first car to bear his name as a manufacturer was the "356," introduced in 1948. Since then, Porsche has introduced sports cars like the "911," "924," and "928," while also focusing on motorsport. For instance, they have achieved 16 victories in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, arguably the world's most grueling race, and contributed to three series championships as an engine supplier in Formula 1, amassing a brilliant track record. It goes without saying that their technological prowess and dedication to driving performance continue to live on in their products today.

Currently, the "911," which continues to be highly regarded as a top-tier sports car even 45 years after its debut, along with the open-top sports car "Boxster," its coupe counterpart the "Cayman," and the premium sports SUV "Cayenne," all boast immense popularity.