As EV sales slow down, Porsche may have to appease customers the old fashioned way
Porsche has unveiled a major shift in its electric vehicle (EV) strategy, announcing plans to incorporate internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid options into models originally designed to be fully electric. Well, it appears that the whole EV craze is officially now a thing of the past and I, for one, am glad this is so.
This “shocking,” (see what I did there?) decision is the result of declining EV sales as well as a growing demand for combustion and hybrid vehicles among Porsche’s core customers, many of whom still favour traditional powertrains. This pivot represents a significant departure from Porsche’s earlier goal of achieving 80 percent of its lineup as fully electric by the end of the decade.
Moreover, the fully electric 718 Boxster and Cayman, which are set to launch soon, were among the first vehicles designed exclusively as EVs. However, retrofitting these models to include combustion engines or hybrid systems poses engineering and financial challenges. Chief Financial Officer Lutz Meschke noted during a recent call, “Many customers in the premium and luxury segment are looking toward combustion-engined cars—there’s a clear trend.”
While Porsche has built its reputation on innovation, the transition from an electric-only strategy to one that includes combustion or hybrid options for models like the 718 sports cars and the upcoming Macan SUV introduces logistical and cost complexities. If the changes are approved, developing these modifications would take years, with uncertain timelines for market availability.
In light of evolving market dynamics, Porsche is also emphasising flexibility in its production capabilities. The company plans to reengineer its lineup to accommodate combustion powertrains in future models, such as the flagship K1 SUV, slated for release in 2028. Initially intended as an EV, the larger three-row K1 could potentially integrate a hybrid system now.
On top of that, Porsche is also revisiting popular models like the Panamera and Cayenne, enhancing their combustion variants and expanding plug-in hybrid options. Meschke stated, “We will refresh our combustion engine cars, including the Panamera and Cayenne, while continuing to focus on plug-in hybrids,” underscoring Porsche’s ongoing commitment to ICE vehicles.
So the people have spoken and it appears the result is clear, it’s a resounding yes to petrol and hybrids and a big fat no to EVs, what do you think of this? We got all this from Driven Car Guide and their full article is linked here. Thank you Driven Car Guide for the information and images.
