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Porsche rethinks electrification for 718 Boxster and Cayman
Porsche appears to be recalibrating its electrification roadmap. After mixed market responses to the Taycan and a bumpy rollout for an all‑electric second‑generation Macan, Stuttgart is quietly moving back toward offering internal combustion engine (ICE) variants alongside electric alternatives for its next 718 generation.
Why the pivot matters
The shift is more than product planning — it’s a market response. While the Taycan demonstrated Porsche can build a compelling EV, overall demand hasn't matched expectations in some segments. The result: buyers are often choosing proven, familiar ICE models (and in some markets even first‑generation Macans) over pricier electric replacements. Porsche’s answer has been pragmatic: hybridize where it makes sense and keep ICE options for purists and flagship trims.
New CGI previews show both ICE and EV 718s
Digital artist Andrei Avarvarii (avarvarii on Instagram) recently released CGI concepts that echo the rumors. His renders imagine the next 718 Boxster and Cayman wearing Porsche’s updated design language — but split by powertrain:
- Red and green open‑top Boxsters with a conventional mid‑mounted ICE behind the seats
- A yellow Cayman rendered as an all‑electric, zero‑emission variant
“These visuals suggest Porsche will keep ICE as the halo option while introducing EVs as alternatives,” the artist notes — a scenario that aligns with industry whispers and recent product decisions at Zuffenhausen.
Product strategy: mix, not mono
Porsche’s broader strategy is revealing. The new 911 Turbo moved to a hybrid powertrain to marry performance with electrification benefits, and the upcoming three‑row flagship crossover above the Cayenne is reportedly launching as ICE first, with an EV possibly following if market demand requires it. That same flexibility appears to be shaping the 718’s future.
Highlights:
- Porsche preserves ICE for flagship 718 variants to satisfy enthusiasts
- Electric 718 models are still in development and will supplement the lineup
- Hybridization used where it best enhances performance and emissions
What this means for buyers and enthusiasts
If Porsche follows through, 718 buyers will get more choice: a traditional rear‑mid ICE experience for driving purists and an EV option for those prioritizing emissions and instant torque. From a market perspective, it’s a risk‑aware approach that balances brand heritage with regulatory and technological trends.
Whether you prefer the roar of a flat‑six behind your head or silent, instantaneous electric thrust, Porsche seems determined to offer both — at least for the next 718 chapter. What matters now is execution: pricing, performance, and how closely these EV and ICE versions preserve the 718’s celebrated driving character.
Source: autoevolution
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