Gas Powered Porsche Cayman And Boxster May Just Survive With 911 Power
Porsche seems to have partially corrected course on its EV sports car duo, as gas-powered Porsche Cayman and Boxster models may just survive, potentially leveraging 911 power. Allegedly, Porsche plans to extend the lifespan of its beloved gas-powered 718 lineup (comprising the Cayman and Boxster), a reversal from its initial strategy to transition these entry-level sports cars solely to electric power. This shift, like that of many other brands, suggests Porsche will now offer both internal combustion engine (ICE) and EV versions as consumer hesitation towards full electrification becomes more apparent.
The New Cayman And Boxster Could Be Gas-Powered Too: Responding to Market Shifts
Porsche’s decision to reconsider its all-electric strategy for the 718 lineup is reportedly driven by a need to keep costs down amid a “strategic realignment”—corporate speak for adjusting to unforeseen market trends. A key part of this new approach will be to axe four-cylinder versions of the 718, as they may not be emissions-compliant in Europe. This aligns with recent comments from Porsche CEO Oliver Blume, who alluded to “taking into account” slowing demand for EVs.
According to an Autocar report, new, high-end 718s will allegedly use the 911’s hybrid flat-six setup. This move offers several benefits:
- Emissions Compliance: It will help meet stringent Euro 7 emissions regulations coming into effect in 2026.
- Packaging Constraints: The hybrid setup is reportedly shorter than the 911’s fully ICE-powered engine, which will aid with packaging challenges in the smaller 718 chassis.
Porsche also needs to address European cybersecurity regulations, which previously led to the discontinuation of gas-powered models in Europe before global production of the current 718 ended this year.
Porsche’s New SUV Strategy: Flexibility is Key
Porsche CEO Oliver Blume’s comments underscore a broader shift in the company’s electrification strategy. He explicitly stated, “We have seen a clear drop in demand for exclusive battery-electric cars and we are taking that into account.” This recognition has led to several changes in Porsche’s future product plans:
- The full-size electric “K1” SUV flagship has been shelved in its original electric form.
- Plans for an electric Panamera and the next-generation Taycan have also been altered.
- The platform intended for the large electric SUV will now arrive in the next decade instead.
The K1 SUV will now be launched with gasoline powertrains, including a hybrid option, and a new “M1” Macan replacement will follow a similar strategy. While Blume emphasized that Porsche is not abandoning electrification entirely (acknowledging that EVs “excite a specific and growing customer group”), the immediate priority is clear: “This flexibility gives us a strong position with a compelling mix of combustion engines, plug-in hybrids and battery-electric vehicles.”
Despite this shift, Porsche does have new electrified models on the way, such as the upcoming Cayenne Electric, which promises significant power and wireless charging capabilities. However, it’s evident that Porsche’s updated reading of market trends suggests a longer viable future for combustion engines than previously anticipated. Given the long development cycles in the automotive industry, Porsche is making a calculated bet that it cannot afford to be wrong about.
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