It is not often that companies have the opportunity to see the future, but in a sense, the future is now. Notably, the future is Porsche. The German sports car marker announced this week that the forthcoming Porsche Cayenne SUV will not only be faster, but be more economical as well.
Also included in the hybrid mix will be the forthcoming 2009 Porsche Panamera to be produced in Leipzig.
The hybrid system in the Cayenne will be the strongest yet in the world, with the ability to run on full-electric cycle at 70 mph. Estimated fuel economy will reach 40 mpg, 26+ mpg on the European combined cycle.
The important thing here to understand is that Porsche’s announcement marks a full shift away from petrol-only cars. The writing is now on the wall for sure. Expect to see modified hybrid systems (and likely alternative fuel versions) across the entire Porsche line in the not so distant future.
On the larger scale the move marks the turning point when all carmakers, Lotus, Maserati (they’ll spend this year’s profits on R&D), Ferrari, Lamboghini, et al will begin development on hybrid systems, albeit far more sophisticated and powerful than those in existence today.
Investor’s tip: invest in OEM parts/system makers that will develop and provide these systems to the car makers into the future. There’s a lot of money to be had as demand for these vehicles will continue to gather steam and eventually reach critical mass.
Sources:
Financial Times: Emission cut by California put the heat on Washington
Automobilewoche article here
Graphic courtesy Porsche/Automobilewoche.
