Porsche has launched its third all-electric vehicle, the Cayenne Electric, boasting an impressive 1140bhp. This marks the first time the iconic SUV, first introduced in 2002, will be available exclusively as an EV. However, the rollout comes with a notable caveat: Porsche is walking back its earlier commitment to an 80% electric lineup by 2030, citing slower-than-expected EV demand.
A New Era…With a Backup Plan 🔄
The Cayenne Electric rides on the Porsche-developed PPE platform, designed solely for electric vehicles. Initially, Porsche aimed for a rapid transition to EVs, but market realities have prompted a more cautious approach. The company will continue selling the current petrol and hybrid versions of the Cayenne alongside the electric model, even planning significant updates for the combustion engine variants as late as next year.
This decision reflects broader industry trends: while EV adoption is growing, it’s not happening as quickly as some manufacturers predicted. Porsche’s shift acknowledges that many consumers aren’t yet ready to fully embrace electric SUVs, especially at the premium end of the market. The move also provides Porsche with flexibility, allowing it to cater to diverse customer preferences for longer.
Performance and Pricing 💰
The Cayenne Electric will come in two versions when it arrives in mid-2024. The base model starts at £83,200, while the high-performance Turbo trim reaches £130,900. Porsche marketing boss Matthias Becker emphasized that the electric version “reaches a new level of performance,” while confirming the company’s commitment to internal combustion and hybrid drivetrains “well into the next decade.”
Key details:
– Power: 1,140 bhp (Turbo trim)
– Platform: PPE (all-electric)
– Availability: Mid-2024
– Pricing: From £83,200
Porsche’s strategy with the Cayenne Electric is a pragmatic one: embrace the future of EVs while recognizing that the present still includes strong demand for traditional powertrains. This dual approach ensures the SUV remains relevant to a wider range of buyers for years to come.
