Recent sightings at the Nürburgring have revealed the ongoing testing of Porsche’s inaugural electric sports car. This vehicle, a revamped version of the 718 Boxster convertible, was officially announced for a 2025 release by Porsche’s CEO Oliver Blume. Furthermore, an electric variant of the 718 Cayman coupe is also expected to be introduced.
Although heavily disguised, the prototypes display distinct features like active shutters within the air intakes of the front fascia, and a clearly visible light strip that forms the taillights. Interestingly, some models exhibit a faux exhaust vent, likely intended to mislead observers. It’s speculated that an active rear wing might be integrated at the forefront of the rear deck. The vehicle’s audio, as captured in a Car Spy Media video, distinctly echoes the hum typical of an electric powertrain.
The new model maintains proportions akin to the current 718, but exhibits a broader stance and a lowered front. Its design takes cues from the Porsche Mission R concept, showcased at the 2021 Munich auto show, which also hinted at Porsche’s ambition to venture into electric racing vehicles.
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The Mission R Concept and the Future of Electric Porsche Models
The forthcoming electric 718 is anticipated to offer options for either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. The showcased Mission R concept boasted a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system, capable of producing 670 horsepower in its race mode and up to 1,073 horsepower in a qualifying burst mode. This concept included a single-speed transmission that enabled speeds exceeding 186 mph. The 718 Cayman GT4 ePerformance, a race car prototype derived from the Mission R, features two single-speed transmissions and matches the top speeds of contemporary race cars.
Even at its base performance level, the electric 718 is poised to rival the 911, particularly if Porsche succeeds in achieving a speculated maximum curb weight of around 3,650 pounds. To maintain distinctiveness between the two models, the 911 will continue to use a gasoline engine as long as regulations permit. While it’s premature to discuss the range specifics, the Mission R concept included an 80-kWh battery, projected to provide approximately 250 miles of range.
The electric 718 is expected to be built on a dedicated EV platform, likely similar to that of the Mission R. This platform would position the batteries in a T-shape, filling the center tunnel and area behind the seats, thus enabling a low vehicle profile while achieving a weight distribution akin to mid-engine cars.
Transitioning to Electric: Porsche’s Strategy
With this shift towards electric, Porsche does not plan to offer a gasoline-powered successor to the current 718. However, the company intends to continue selling the existing 718 model alongside the new electric version for a certain period, potentially with updates. This strategy mirrors Porsche’s approach with the current Macan, which will remain available alongside the upcoming Macan EV, slated for an early 2024 release. A similar plan is anticipated for the Cayenne, following the introduction of an electric version around 2026.
Porsche has been somewhat taken aback by the rapid surge in demand for EVs in the premium market. The company had previously estimated that by 2025, half of its lineup would be electrified (including hybrids and EVs). However, current projections suggest that by the same year, half of its offerings might consist solely of battery electric vehicles. Looking ahead to 2030, Porsche expects that the 911 will be the sole model retaining an internal combustion engine.
Porsche’s exploration into electric vehicles dates back to 2011 with the introduction of the Boxster E prototype. Developed for research purposes, this prototype was equipped with a 29-kWh battery and a single electric motor, delivering 240 horsepower.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Porsche 718 Boxster EV 2025
What is the Porsche 718 Boxster EV?
The Porsche 718 Boxster EV is Porsche’s first electric sports car, a redesigned version of the 718 Boxster convertible, set to launch by 2025. It features a modern design influenced by the Porsche Mission R concept and offers options for rear- or all-wheel drive.
When will the Porsche 718 Boxster EV be released?
Porsche CEO Oliver Blume has confirmed that the 718 Boxster EV is scheduled for launch by 2025. An electric version of the 718 Cayman coupe is also expected around the same time.
What are the design and performance features of the 718 Boxster EV?
The 718 Boxster EV maintains similar proportions to the current 718 but appears wider and lower at the front. It is expected to have a dual-motor system, delivering up to 1,073 hp in a qualifying mode, and may achieve speeds over 186 mph. The design includes active shutters and a light strip for taillights.
Will Porsche continue to offer gas-powered 718 models?
Porsche plans to sell the current gas-powered 718 model alongside the new electric version for a certain period, potentially with updates. This approach is part of Porsche’s strategy to transition smoothly to electric vehicles.
How does the electric 718 compare to the Porsche 911?
The electric 718 is set to rival the Porsche 911 in performance, especially if it achieves the rumored maximum curb weight of 3,650 pounds. However, to differentiate the two, the 911 will retain a gasoline engine for the foreseeable future.
What is Porsche’s strategy for transitioning to electric vehicles?
Porsche’s strategy involves gradually introducing electric versions of its models, like the 718 Boxster EV and the upcoming Macan EV. The company predicts that by 2025, half of its lineup will be fully electric, and by 2030, only the 911 model will have an internal combustion engine.
More about Porsche 718 Boxster EV 2025
- Porsche 718 Boxster EV Overview
- Porsche Mission R Concept Details
- Porsche Electric Vehicle Strategy
- Comparison of Porsche 718 Boxster EV and 911
- History of Porsche Electric Prototypes