Porsche 919 Hybrid Is Revamped & Ready to Race

By Joel Patel - June 2, 2017

Porsche prepares for another win at Le Mans.

Porsche took the covers and camouflage off of the LMP1-spec race car that it hopes will provide the automaker with another title in the FIA World Endurance Championship, as well as the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans. With Audi out of the way, little stands in the way of the new 919 Hybrid, as Porsche chases its third consecutive title.

The vehicle, which retains the 919 Hybrid moniker, has been improved over previous iterations. The racecar, according to Porsche, retains only 30 to 40 percent of the same components as the previous vehicle, with the carbon-fiber monocoque going untouched.

For 2017, new regulations have been put in place, giving LMP1 teams just two different aerodynamic packages to use throughout the entire season. The first package for the new 919 Hybrid includes a raised splitter which was mandated by the changes to decrease cornering speeds, along with a redesigned air intake system. The second package was specifically designed to be used at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Porsche has even optimized the 919 Hybrid’s energy recovery system
that is capable of generating over 900 horsepower.

Underneath the new aerodynamic bodywork, the racecar still utilizes a 2.0-liter V4 gas-powered engine that works in collaboration with a hybrid system. Think hybrids aren’t cool? Take a second look at this beast. Porsche has even optimized the 919 Hybrid’s energy recovery system to ensure that the upgraded lithium-ion battery is constantly receiving power. When all is said and done, the system is capable of generating over 900 horsepower.

Unfortunately, we’ll have to wait until June to see the 919 Hybrid in action on the track. For those of us that can’t wait, there’s a short clip of race car being put through its paces below.