Ferdinand Porsche-
Genesis of Genius

Bentley Publishers is proud to announce the publication of the newest Porsche historical book by Karl Ludvigsen, author of the award-winning Porsche: Excellence Was Expected. This limited collector's edition has been built to the personal standards of Ernst Piëch, Ferdinand Porsche's eldest grandson. For more information on the high production values of this edition, click here.

Ferdinand Porsche-Genesis of Genius Deluxe family heirloom edition available in a limited print run of 500. (click to enlarge)

In Ferdinand Porsche-Genesis of Genius, author Karl Ludvigsen reveals a dynamic young innovator who helped to chart the course of the automobile through the first decades of the twentieth century. As early as 1900, at the age of 25, Ferdinand Porsche pioneered hybrid technology to power his automobile designs. Once gasoline gained dominance as the power-source of choice, Porsche became relentless in his goal to design the fastest and most durable automobiles in Europe.

Chapter 3: Electrifying Automobiles 1900-1905 In neat sketches in his own notebook, Porsche worked out the electrical connections that would be needed to control the forward speeds of his powerful Panhard-powered Mixtes of 1905. (click to enlarge)

Porsche's engineering brilliance did not stop at the automobile. He also made significant contributions to the early development of airplane engines and military transport vehicles. And in addition to his hands-on style of engineering, Ferdinand Porsche was a tireless managing executive in the automotive industry.

Ferdinand Porsche-Genesis of Genius Close-up of foldout artwork by Wolfgang Franke showing cutaway detail of the 1910 Austro-Daimler Prince Heinrich Racer. (click to enlarge)

Ferdinand Porsche-Genesis of Genius explores in depth the unique combination of ambition, determination and genius that were the genesis of an automotive dynasty which has continued to thrive and expand for over a century.

Chapter 12: Shooting Stars 1923-1928 For the carriage trade in 1928 Ferdinand Porsche and his colleagues introduced the Model SS, which catered to more spacious bodywork than the ultra-low Model S. Its Type M 06 engine was enlarged to 7.1 liters. (click to enlarge)

Ferdinand Porsche-Genesis of Genius combines the dramatic story of Ferdinand Porsche's early career with over 500 rare documents and photographs depicting his earliest creations. Developed with the personal involvement of Ferdinand Porsche's eldest grandson, Ernst Piëch, this book is a distinctive reflection of the quality and history of Porsche values.

Chapter 8: Opportunity in the Air 1909-1918 In his characteristic bowler Porsche observed a flight test with one of his engines on the Steinfeld in 1911. (click to enlarge)