The Enigma of Kepler Motors' Motion Hybrid

Rare SEEN - At first glance, the name Kepler might remind you of the Kepler space telescope, a defunct NASA project launched in 2009 to discover Earth-sized planets orbiting other stars. Named after the famous astronomer Johannes Kepler, this telescope has no connection to the automotive world. However, Kepler Motors, a boutique automotive manufacturer, has made its mark by developing an advanced performance hybrid supercar.

The Kepler Motion Hybrid supercar made its debut at the 2009 Dubai International Motor Show. (Picture from: Autoblog)

Kepler Motors introduced their hybrid supercar concept at the 2009 Dubai International Motor Show, showcasing a powerful vehicle with a combined output of 800 hp. This supercar, named the Kepler Motion, is powered by Ford's new EcoBoost 3.5-liter engine paired with two electric motors. This impressive combination sets the stage for a remarkable driving experience.

Left side view of the Kepler Motion Hybrid supercar. (Picture from: KeplerMotors)

In 2012, Kepler Motors released a video highlighting their hybrid supercar's capabilities. The Kepler Motion hybrid supercar features launch control, active suspension, carbon ceramic brakes, and AeroWheels, all incorporated into a lightweight carbon fiber monocoque body and chassis. This design allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 kph (62 mph) in just 2.5 seconds and reach a top speed of over 321 kph (200 mph).

Kepler Motors brings Titanium uprights to the roadway with additive manufacturing and CRP Groups’ expertise. (Picture from: CRPMeccanica)

The powertrain of the Kepler Motion hybrid supercar is a testament to its engineering excellence. The tuned twin-turbo Ford EcoBoost 3.5-liter V6 engine generates 550 hp, driving the rear wheels. Additionally, the front wheels are powered by two electric motors providing an extra 250 hp. This setup results in a total output of 800 hp when using the all-wheel-drive system, delivering extraordinary performance. 

Rear right side view of Kepler Motion Hybrid supercar. (Picture from: de.Motor1)

A unique aspect of the Kepler Motion's hybrid technology is the separation of the electric motors and the petrol engine. Unlike other hybrids, such as the Toyota Prius, which uses a parallel hybrid system to power the front wheels with both electric motors and a petrol engine, the Kepler Motion employs a series hybrid system. This system uses the petrol engine to charge the batteries while the electric motors propel the vehicle, offering a different approach to hybrid technology.

Another type of series hybrid vehicle is known as an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV), with the Chevy Volt being a notable example. These vehicles operate exclusively on electric power, using a petrol engine solely as a generator to charge the battery rather than to drive the wheels. This distinction highlights the innovative engineering behind the Kepler Motion hybrid supercar.

Kepler Motors announced that the Motion hybrid would be produced in limited quantities, with only 50 units planned. Reportedly, Kepler Motors brings Titanium uprights to the roadway with additive manufacturing and CRP Groups’ expertise. The company was preparing these supercars for delivery, ensuring that each unit met the high standards set by this groundbreaking model.

The Kepler Motion hybrid supercar represents a significant leap in automotive technology, combining high performance with advanced hybrid engineering. As Kepler Motors continues to innovate, the automotive world eagerly anticipates what they will unveil next.

However, the question remains whether all these plans were realized, as there has been no further news from Kepler Motors in the global automotive world. Does this company still exist today? Does anyone know? *** [EKA [08022014] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | KEPLER MOTORS | CRP MECCANICA | AUTOBLOG | DE.MOTOR1 | WIKIPEDIA ]

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