Porsche's fastest (and greenest) supercar on its way

Porsche has just released the crucial details on its upcoming 918 Spyder supercar. The plug-in hybrid will signal a new era in motoring with its blistering performance and Prius-beating fuel economy.

While its lack of body panels means it doesn't look like much at the moment, the important specs can now be revealed. A mid-mounted 4.6-litre V8 will provide the main grunt at 425kW, with an 80kW electric motor at the front and a 90kW electric motor at the back bringing total power to 575kW and 750Nm.

What this means for performance is 0-100km/h in less than 3 seconds, 0-200km/h in less than 9, and a top speed of 325km/h. Despite these remarkable figures, Porsche say the 918 Spyder will achieve fuel consumption of less than 3.0L/100km. That's 0.9L/100km — or 25 percent — greener than a Toyota Prius. This would make the 918 Spyder the most economical car in Australia if it went on sale today.

But there's always a catch. For Aussie Porsche enthusiasts hoping to get their hands on a 918 Spyder, they'll need to hand over around $1.5 million, be happy to deal with left-hand-drive only, and only be allowed to take their new toy on racetracks.

If that still sounds like it's worth the trouble, the 918 Spyder will be fully revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2013 and go on sale some time in 2014.