Porsche to make hybrid 918 sypder

Just the Facts:

—Porsche confirms it will build the 918 Spyder hybrid.

—The high-performance hybrid will be built in limited numbers outside Stuttgart.

—The 918 Spyder is rumored to be priced above $600,000.

STUTTGART, Germany — Porsche confirmed on Wednesday that it will build the sensational 918 Spyder, first seen earlier this year as a concept at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show.

The automaker said the production version of the high-performance hybrid will be assembled in limited numbers at its home plant in Zuffenhausen, just outside Stuttgart.

An official statement released Wednesday said the company has received an "overwhelming response" from the public to the 918 Spyder concept. Earlier reports indicated Porsche had received expressions of interest from more than 900 buyers.

Porsche did not specify a production start-up date or a price tag, although widespread media reports in Europe have suggested the sticker could exceed $600,000.

Michael Macht, Porsche AG president and chairman of the board of management, said: "Production of the 918 Spyder in a limited series proves that we are taking the right approach with Porsche Intelligent Performance, featuring the combination of supreme performance and efficient drivetrain concepts."

Inside Line says: Nearly a thousand cars at $600K a throw — you do the math. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent

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