Last month Porsche announced that a 918 Spyder prototype turned in a single-lap time of just 7 minutes 14 seconds around the 12.9 mile Nürburgring Nordschliefe circuit. The 784bhp hybrid prototype was fitted with production Michelin road tyres as well as the optional “Weissach” package.

The Weissach package is rumoured to include, enhancements to the 918′s four-wheel steering, upgraded carbon ceramic brakes, and numerous weight-saving measures that turn the cabin of the 918 Spyder into that of a pseudo race car.

At the time, all we had was stills of the 918 Spyder prototype with Porsche ambassador, Walter Röhrl at the wheel.

Now Porsche has confirmed that it was indeed Röhrl who set the 7:14 minute lap time, and have provided a highlights video of the media event on 18th September 2012, at which the time was set.

Röhrl describes the 918 Spyder’s 800bhp as very, very impressive – which for driver known for his non-effusive style translates to ‘mind blowing’ for us mere mortals.

There’s still another 12 months of development to go before Porsche’s 918 Spyder hits the road, so it’s set to become even more impressive.

The 918 Spyder is powered by a mid-mounted 4.6-litre petrol engine, producing 572bhp and ‘two’ electric motors adding a further 212bhp to deliver a total of 784bhp. Peak torque is quoted at 627lb-ft (850Nm), more than 44% greater than the Carrera GT. The petrol engine drives the rear wheels, while each electric motor is used to power either front or rear axle respectively.

So, as Porsche said in their media briefing, are there any questions left?

Gallery

911 GT3 RS Hybrid 918 Spyder Carrera GT electric vehicle EV martini racing Nurburgring plug-in porsche prototype V8 video williams hybrid power