Formula One’s governing body, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), is always looking to increase the spectacle of the sport and 2010 will see some significant changes implemented as the perennial search for greater performance and efficiency continues.

Mercedes GP RB1

Having stepped wearily from the cockpit of his Ferrari at the end of yet another mesmerizing performance in the 2006 Brazilian Grand Prix, few in the sport thought that they would ever see the return of the seven-time world champion.  The absolute dominance of the ‘Ferrari era’ that Schumacher had led from 2000-2004 had been ended by a new generation of talent, and it seemed that the story had come to an end.

Michael Macht, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, presented the Porsche 918 Spyder concept car at its world debut on the evening of the 1st of March in Geneva. This mid-engined two-seater combines the performance of a super-sports car with the CO2 emissions of a small compact, an innovative plug-in hybrid concept reducing emissions to just 70 grams CO2 per kilometre and fuel consumption to 3.0 litres/100 kilometres (94 mpg imp). Within this concept Porsche combines a V8 power unit delivering more than 500 hp and three electric motors with overall output of 160 kW. In its design and interior architecture, the Porsche 918 Spyder combines classic elements with appropriate solutions for the future. Starting on Tuesday, March 2nd, at 8:15 am (CET), the Porsche 918 Spyder will also be presented at the Porsche Stand in Hall 6 of the Palexpo Building during the Geneva Motor Show.