At one point, Porsche thought making the 718 a fully-electric car, but here we are a few years later, and the automaker is joining a growing chorus of companies backing off aggressive electrification plans. Porsche recently confirmed that it would not eliminate internal combustion engines in the 718 Boxster and Cayman, though most will lose gas power.
Only the top 718 variants will retain ICE power, which could mean that only the RS or comparable trims would get a gas engine. The others will likely pick up electric powertrains, which could make for an interesting pricing model in the Porsche lineup, where EVs are cheaper than their gas counterparts for once.
Porsche has softened its electrification stance for other future models, too. The previously reported electric-only three-row SUV is now expected to arrive with gas and PHEV variants. Another plug-in hybrid crossover is due in 2028, and Porsche is still expected to move forward with an electric Cayenne.
The 911 picked up hybrid power with its most recent update, but it’s unlikely to go all-electric as other models make the leap. These changes will probably come as good news to Porsche enthusiasts, as they ensure the brand will offer gas powertrain options deep into the next decade, if not longer.
[Images: Porsche]
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