Porsche Confirms All-Electric Future for Next-Generation 718 Cayman and Boxster
Porsche has adjusted its broader electrification strategy, scaling back ambitions for an 80% all-electric sales share by 2030 and shelving plans for a proprietary battery factory. However, the company remains committed to electrifying its sports car lineup, and has now confirmed the next generation of the 718 Cayman and Boxster will be exclusively electric.
While earlier discussions hinted at electric versions alongside traditional combustion engines, Porsche now states the upcoming 718 models will only be available with a fully electric drivetrain. Development had faced potential setbacks earlier this year following the bankruptcy filing of Swedish battery manufacturer Northvolt, as Porsche had planned to utilize specialized batteries from the company for the 718’s electric platform.
Despite this challenge, Porsche is moving forward with a launch planned for next year. The electric Cayman and Boxster will be built on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE), jointly developed with Audi. A key modification to the platform involves positioning a portion of the battery pack behind the driver – mirroring the engine location in the current gasoline-powered 718 models. This specific battery placement is believed to be the reason the Northvolt bankruptcy initially impacted Porsche’s plans.