Porsche, the renowned sports car manufacturer, is set to revolutionize its production line with the introduction of electric successors to the iconic Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman. Scheduled to make their debut in 2025, these electric vehicles (EVs) will share the same production line as their petrol-powered counterparts. The move comes as part of a significant GBP 220 million upgrade to Porsche’s Zuffenhausen production plant, emphasizing a commitment to integrating electric technology seamlessly into its existing manufacturing processes.
The Zuffenhausen plant is undergoing a transformation into a ‘flexiline,’ incorporating autonomously guided vehicles to facilitate the simultaneous production of two distinct generations of vehicles—those with internal combustion engines and the upcoming electric 718 models. This unique approach underscores Porsche’s dedication to maintaining consistent size, styling, and philosophy across both powertrain technologies.
The fifth-generation Porsche 718 Cayman and 718 Boxster will adopt a specialized electric sports car platform designed to preserve the mid-engined characteristics of their combustion counterparts. The ‘e-core’ battery arrangement ensures a low seating position and center of gravity, aligning with Porsche’s dynamic performance standards. Notably, this platform could potentially underpin future models from sister brands Audi and Lamborghini.
Porsche’s vision for the next-generation 718 duo is ambitious, intending them to be exclusively offered with electric drivetrains, with international availability targeted by the mid-2020s. These electric models will join the ranks of the Taycan and the Macan EV in Porsche’s expanding electric lineup, with a Cayenne EV slated to follow in 2026.
The Mission R concept, a precursor to Porsche’s electric sports cars, provides insights into the company’s design language, evident in the lighting details observed on test mules. The strategic shift toward electric vehicles aligns with Porsche’s broader goals, aiming for pure EVs to comprise 50 percent of global sales by 2025 and an impressive 80 percent by 2030.
