Porsche to Continue Electric 718 Boxster and Cayman Development Despite Initial Concerns

At the end of last year, the Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman ceased sales worldwide. Currently, only the Spyder RS and Cayman GT4 RS models are being sold in Spain. The reason? Prioritizing electric vehicles. Porsche announced that the next generation of the 718, in its two body styles, would be exclusively electric.

CEO Michael Leiters Addresses Rumors

Despite some reports suggesting Porsche might reconsider its plans for solely electric models, CEO Michael Leiters clarified that the development of both the Porsche Cayman and Boxster electric models will continue. Leiters, previously at McLaren, took over Porsche at the beginning of this year, replacing Oliver Blume who now leads Volkswagen operations. Under Blume’s leadership, Porsche made a significant investment in electrification, but this move negatively impacted its financials, reducing operating profit by 1.8 billion euros.

Focus on Growth and Profitability

Leiters’ current goal is to steer the German brand back to growth and increase revenue. In an interview with Frankfurter Allgemeine, he acknowledged concerns about the 718 electric models potentially being discontinued, but ultimately decided to proceed with the project. He recently examined the Ferrari Luce, a new electric Cavallino with 1,050 horsepower, a 122 kWh battery, and a 530 km range, priced at 550,000 euros. Leiters stated that they’ve concluded manufacturing the 718 electric model is the best economic solution and will result in a fantastic car.

Audi TT Electric Connection

Meanwhile, there's been speculation about the return of the Audi TT, now as an electric sports car. A mule was spotted last year testing on a specific PPE platform for sports cars. Porsche is continuing the 718 model due to the need for components for the Audi’s electric vehicle. Leiters emphasized that Porsche evaluates projects based on commercial viability before considering synergies with the Volkswagen Group.

Gasoline Versions Will Remain

Although Porsche will continue with the electric 718 Boxster and Cayman, their role within the brand’s overall lineup won’t be as significant as initially planned. The initial idea was to sell them exclusively as electric vehicles, but mid-development, they decided to include combustion engines, primarily for top-of-the-line models like the Cayman GT4, GT4 RS, and 718 Spyder RS. Six-cylinder naturally aspirated engines are likely to be used. These engines will also expand to lower levels within the new 718 family.