Summary, Draft 2 + Thesis

The 2017 Porsche 919’s power unit (9R9) consists of a two-litre V4 internal combustion engine (ICE) producing just under 500 horsepower, and two different energy recovery systems (ERS) (Newsroom 2017). The front axle mounted ERS converts kinetic energy under braking, while the rear axle mounted ERS converts energy from exhaust gases. Recuperated energy is stored in a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery, which powers an electric motor capable of outputting over 400 horsepower, giving the 919 a combined total of over 900 horsepower. The 919 is predominantly rear wheel drive via ICE, but momentarily transforms into an all-wheel drive under acceleration, with the electric motor providing instant torque to the front axle. According to Andreani (2024), the 9R9 is Porsche’s most efficient hybrid race car engine to date. Without hybrid systems, an upwards of 20% increase in fuel consumption will be observed. Adhering to the Le Mans Prototype 1 (LMP1) Class regulations, the 919 was purpose built for endurance racing. The efficiency of the 9R9 was key for Porsche to dominate the only double-pointed race in the WEC calendar, the coveted 24 Hour of Le Mans, and ultimately, the LMP1 manufacturer’s championship.

Thesis statement: Porsche’s use of a turbocharged 2.0L V4 engine illustrates how engine downsizing in endurance racing doesn’t compromise performance, but rather allows for superior aerodynamic and hybrid systems integration, resulting in increased fuel efficiency.

References:

(2016, August 9). How the Porsche 919 Hybrid LMP racecar works. Retrieved 2024, from https://www.torque.com.sg/features/how-the-porsche-919-hybrid-lmp-racecar-works/

(2017, March). Porsche Newsroom. Retrieved 2024, from chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://newsroom.porsche.com/dam/jcr:7c981d12-d361-4158-8c0b-4ba930696f40/Press-kit_LMP1_2017_English_Web.pdf.