Unbelievable? Porsche has produced a hybrid race car. The new 911 GT3 R Hybrid was revealed at the Geneva auto show this month. What sort of insanity is this? Well, maybe not insanity, but certainly a shocker.

The R does not rely on traditional hybrid technology. Instead, it makes use of a new electro-mechanical flywheel system developed under the auspices of the Porsche Intelligent Performance program. The new system will be featured in future Porsche race cars if it works as planned and could be seen in a future 911 hybrid.

It works by using the kinetic energy created while braking and can operate at up to 40,000 rpm. The flywheel replaces the conventional battery and is used to supply a pair of 60-kilowatt motors mounted in the front axle assembly. This layout gives the car four-wheel-drive capability. The two motors are used as helpers for the 480 horse 4.0-liter flat-six that drives the rear wheels. The twin electricals provide up to an eight-second burst of propulsion. This quick burst can add acceleration out of corners and, with the press of a button, help the driver overtake the guy in front of him.

Porsche is serious about two things: returning to the 24 Hours of Le Mans and regaining their reputation in racing circles. Just thinking about it makes you want to hit that boost button just one time