After outstanding customer response to the concept car first shown at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, Porsche has announced that dealers around the world will begin taking 918 Spyder customer orders. This is a significant step toward actual production of the company’s next super sports car, a Porsche that marries unique plug-in hybrid technology and outstanding performance in a visually stunning and purely Porsche package.

The 918 Spyder will feature a high revving 500-plus horsepower V8 engine assisted by two electric motors — one each on the front and rear axles — which together will provide approximately 218 additional horsepower. This configuration also will offer an innovative, variable all-wheel drive system with independent control of the drive forces on both axles.

Electrical energy will be stored in a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery that can be recharged from a standard household outlet. Electric-only driving range is expected to be more than 16 miles, and recharge time will depend on each country’s electrical power network. Charging is expected to take about seven hours at 110V/10A in the United States, and a quick-charge option is being evaluated to further reduce charging times.

To ensure the 918 Spyder’s worldwide exclusivity, Porsche will produce no more than 918 examples. Start of production at Porsche’s famed factory in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen is planned for Sept. 18, 2013, and the U.S. base manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $845,000 (excluding destination and handling charges).