Here's why:
* It combined an electric motor with a gasoline engine: This was the defining characteristic of a hybrid car, as it allowed the vehicle to utilize both electric power for silent, efficient driving and gasoline power for longer ranges.
* It used a series hybrid configuration: This meant that the gasoline engine only powered an electric generator, which in turn powered the electric motor that drove the wheels. This setup is different from parallel hybrids where the engine and motor can work together to directly power the wheels.
However, it's important to note that the concept of hybrid vehicles has been around for a long time. Even before Porsche's car, there were other attempts to combine electric and combustion engines in vehicles.
Therefore, while the Porsche Lohner-Porsche Mixte is often recognized as the first true hybrid car, it's not the only vehicle that explored the concept. The technology and design have evolved significantly over the years, leading to the modern hybrid cars we know today.
