Even as the auto industry speeds toward electric vehicles, Porsche is not done pushing the boundaries of combustion power. A new patent reveals a radical W 18 engine layout featuring three cylinder banks and up to three turbochargers. This surprising move hints at Porsche’s continued commitment to performance innovation, even in a time of electric transition.
While other W engines like Bentley’s W 12 or Bugatti’s W 16 use four cylinder banks, Porsche’s new design features only three banks set at 60 degree angles. This setup forms a true W shape and allows the engine to host up to 18 cylinders. That means it can be visualized as three inline six engines sharing a single crankshaft.
Each bank may get its own turbocharger, making the tri turbo design not just powerful but also highly efficient in terms of airflow and heat management. According to the patent, the intake paths are straighter, reducing friction losses and keeping air cooler by separating it from the exhaust flow.
That’s the big question. Porsche has a history of filing ambitious patents that never see mass production. Still, the W 18 concept has stirred excitement in the performance world. Even if it stays on paper, the idea reflects Porsche’s refusal to let combustion engines fade quietly. It also opens up possibilities for limited run hypercars or future motorsport projects.
The design shows how much more there is to explore in traditional powertrains. Whether it’s a proof of concept or a glimpse at what powers the next Porsche halo car, enthusiasts everywhere would love to hear this W 18 roar to life.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.
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