Could the 718 replacement be an EV?

[Twinfan]

Might be the same for the top end ICE models too if they're hybrid and full of nanny systems.....

 

[ianthow]

I’m not sure that the Stuttgart lines could be used to assemble the 992, Boxster and Cayman EVs and the 718.

Jeff

AI search on 911/718 production lines suggests mid and rear engined cars can be built on the same line (yes I know that AI is not to be trusted but this makes sense and appears to be based on a Porsche annual report.​

Production line for 911 & 718​

• According to Porsche’s Annual Report: “A sophisticated control and production principle allows the assembly of all two-door sports cars – the 911, 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman model series – on one production line.” download.newsroom.porsche.com.
• The 2023 upgrade article confirms the same line: “In the future, the electric sports cars in the next 718 generation will be produced on the traditional assembly line for the two-door Porsche sports cars – and this alongside the models with a boxer engine.” Porsche Newsroom+1
• Although parts of 718 production are moved/overflowed to another site (Osnabrück Plant) to relieve capacity, the core two-door line in Zuffenhausen is retained for both lines. Porsche Newsroom

The wheelbases are so similar because flipping from a rear to mid engine design simply simply requires moving the rear bulkhead forward within a similar platform along with some changes to the packaging of the power unit and ancillaries. Goodbye rear seats and footwell. This was the concept with the 986 to allow economies of design/production with both models. Although there has been some divergence between the models since then, the principles remain the same.

 

[Motorhead]

Yes, I’m aware that the Stuttgart lines are capable of mixed production Ian; after all, 911s, Boxsters and some Caymans have been built there for many years, so building 992s and both electric and combustion-engined versions of the 718 replacement shouldn’t present any difficulties.

If you’ll forgive me for saying it but the sentence from my earlier post that you’ve referenced has been taken out of context. We were really discussing the possibility of continuing 718 production at Stuttgart along with the 992 and the electric Caymans and Boxsters which - although feasible - I think is highly unlikely owing to the age of the platform.

Jeff

 

[ianthow]

Yes, I’m aware that the Stuttgart lines are capable of mixed production Ian; after all, 911s, Boxsters and some Caymans have been built there for many years, so building 992s and both electric and combustion-engined versions of the 718 replacement shouldn’t present any difficulties.

If you’ll forgive me for saying it but the sentence from my earlier post that you’ve referenced has been taken out of context. We were really discussing the possibility of continuing 718 production at Stuttgart along with the 992 and the electric Caymans and Boxsters which - although feasible - I think is highly unlikely owing to the age of the platform.

Jeff

Given the similarities of the 992.2 and the spy photos of a 718 EV, it is possible that both could be built on the 992.2 line which will have to be modified for hybrid 911 production? A lower power version of the 992.2 GTS hybrid powertrain could suit the high end 718 now being rumoured.

 

[JohnCRS]

Interesting. Porsche could have essentially the same platform for both future 911 and Cayman products. Just as now, the key differences could be in the packaging, putting the 'engine' mass before or after the rear axle to differentiate between the two and retaining the luggage space either in the cabin, or at the rear. This applies to either EV or hybrid but means they onlly have one platform to develop. Ths would also help them maintain the dynamic differences of the different models.

Thoughts also turn to performance. If they somehow manage to retain ICE versions of the GT cars, it is going to be difficult to maintain their performance advantage over the EV 'ordinary' versions. A hybrid may help with that - combiniing the sound and soul of the ICE with the performance enhancement of the EV. In fact you could stick quite a big motor with a modest battery, covering the range issue with the combustion engine. (The BMW i3 was available with or without a combustion range enhancer)

The permutations are endless. It's fun speculating what is possible and what route Porsche might take.

 

[Motorhead]

A lower power version of the 992.2 GTS hybrid powertrain could suit the high end 718 now being rumoured.

Currently that’s my take on it too Ian, although converting the EV to an ICE configuration isn’t the work of a moment [incorporation of the fuel system and modifying the battery coolant system, etc.] and will require a significant investment in design and development costs and resources, although Porsche can capitalise on the work done on the 992.2 GTS. I can’t see these cars arriving soon; MY2028 most likely?

Difficult to justify for what are going to be low-volume high-price niche products, but presumably Porsche’s market research has decided that there’ll be sufficient demand; and a lot depends upon the projected length of the production run.

Sadly it looks as though the F-4T and F-6 4.0L engines are now history. I suppose that the former has had a decent production run in spite of initial customer [press?] resistance, but the latter’s run has been relatively brief given the significant investment which much have been made for what were just the top-end cars.

Jeff

 

[Motorhead]

Interesting. Porsche could have essentially the same platform for both future 911 and Cayman products. Just as now, the key differences could be in the packaging, putting the 'engine' mass before or after the rear axle to differentiate between the two and retaining the luggage space either in the cabin, or at the rear. This applies to either EV or hybrid but means they onlly have one platform to develop. Ths would also help them maintain the dynamic differences of the different models.

Thoughts also turn to performance. If they somehow manage to retain ICE versions of the GT cars, it is going to be difficult to maintain their performance advantage over the EV 'ordinary' versions. A hybrid may help with that - combiniing the sound and soul of the ICE with the performance enhancement of the EV. In fact you could stick quite a big motor with a modest battery, covering the range issue with the combustion engine. (The BMW i3 was available with or without a combustion range enhancer)

The permutations are endless. It's fun speculating what is possible and what route Porsche might take.

It’s going to be interesting to see how the motor/transmission unit is packaged in the EV cars John, i.e. motor in front of or behind the transmission. Looking to the future, like it or not Porsche eventually will have to produce an electric 911 and probably see electric and ICE versions of the Cayman and Boxster as means of feeding into the 911 development programme and evaluating different possibilities at minimal cost.

Having a single platform across the sports car range would save a huge amount on design and development costs, but if indeed they are going to have electric and ICE versions of the 911 you could argue: why have Boxsters and Caymans anyway, other than that they would be 2-seaters vs the 2+2 of a 911, and given that the profit margin will be much lower? However I’m sure Porsche like to have the entry-level cars to feed customers into the pricier and more extensive 911 range in time and as now find ways to reduce the platform cost by adopting a simpler and cheaper suspension arrangement [struts vs front strut or wishbone/multi-link rear with steer].

Jeff

 

[Boomer_Zoomer]

More news on the 718 EV's appeared in Autocar magazine this week.

Apparently, Porsche are working on re-engineering the EV platform to accommodate a mid-engine. This involves bolting a re-worked floor section into the vacant space where the battery would be to maintain chassis rigidity. As an EV does not require a transmission tunnel, rigidity is achieved by the battery casings. A redesigned rear bulkhead and subframe will support the engine and transmission.

The good news is that Porsche are considering including the 4.0 flat-six among the engine options. It was feared the 4.0 engine would not be able to comply with the Euro 7 emissions, but the watered down revised final EU regulations now makes this possible. Apparently....

Much remains to be seen as to how Porsche play their cards here. If the so-called "top end" models are in the GT4 RS configuration, that will limit the customer base considerably. Note the PCGB's decision to go for the Boxster GTS 4.0 PDK model in the recent prize draw event as being more universally popular.

Forlornly, I'm still hoping for the Cayman R option, using the current spec GTS 4.0 PDK power unit. Regrettably, I accept this is remote possibility given Porsche's desire, nay necessity, to maximise profitability by going for the GT4 RS equivalent, thereby offering the 718 EV editions as the main thrust of its mid-engine sports car market. I'm not at all sure this will fly as Porsche hopes it wil.

Brian.

 

[AlistairF]

Does anyone actually want an electric Boxster/ Cayman ? Who would buy one ? No doubt it will be bigger, heavier and near silent (I exclude piped sound which is just wrong).

 

[Dick Dastardly]

Does anyone actually want an electric Boxster/ Cayman ? Who would buy one ? No doubt it will be bigger, heavier and near silent (I exclude piped sound which is just wrong).

Yes but remember the large corporate market is rigged in favour of EV‘s due to the absurd tax write off for EV’s and the favourable car benefit treatment. This is how so many Taycans were sold, although many corporates may have buyers remorse when they trade in/come to the end of leases as the residuals are dismal. As all manufacturers are squeezed by EV sales targets by the UK government/ EU so they will need to sell them or be hit by fines.
You’re right that nobody has any great love of EV’s especially as a sports car, I have just purchased a secondhand Boxster GTS for that very reason.
Things are probably going to continue to get worse until the politicians stop bending the knee to the net zero religion. They have already done a great job on crippling the UK motor industry and opening the UK market to Chinese EV’s being dumped.

 

[jimbo761]

Some interesting updates here, US based dealer but probably just speculation…

https://theexchange.porsche.com/en/model-research/718-ev

Prepare for an electrified evolution of driving thrills with the all-new 2027 Porsche 718 EV, a precision-engineered performance machine that redefines what a fully electric sports car can be. Fusing Porsche’s motorsport heritage with next-generation electric power, the 718 EV promises a dynamic blend of fierce acceleration, track-tuned handling, and everyday livability. Powered by a cutting-edge 800-volt architecture, this sleek coupe offers a rear-motor layout for purists and an all-wheel-drive GTS variant for those craving maximum grip and agility. With aggressive styling cues, a lightweight body, and a digitally enhanced cockpit, the 2027 Porsche 718 EV is a sophisticated daily driver and a sporty adrenaline booster that makes no compromises. Every detail, from its quick-charge capability to its augmented reality display, is built to push boundaries and captivate drivers.

Porsche 718 EV Highlights​

• Performance: Instant torque, dual-motor GTS available, and 0 to 60 in under 4.0 seconds.
• Engine Options: Single rear motor (Base) or dual-motor all-wheel drive (GTS).
• Interior Features: Premium materials like leather and Alcantara with ergonomic seating.
• Exterior Features: Taycan-inspired headlights, sculpted body, and aerodynamic wheels.
• Technology: Augmented reality head-up display, OTA updates, and Apple CarPlay®.
• Safety Features: Lane Change Assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and more.

When comparing the 2027 Porsche 718 EV to the 2025 BMW i4 and 2025 Audi e-tron GT, the 718 EV stands out as the top choice for drivers seeking the ultimate blend of performance, innovation, and luxury. Unlike the heavier, sedan-based BMW i4 and the grand touring-focused Audi e-tron GT, the 2027 Porsche 718 EV is purpose-built as a lightweight electric sports car with razor-sharp handling and track-capable precision. It comes standard with Matrix LED Headlights and Porsche Active Suspension Management for superior road control. It offers advanced features like Porsche Active Ride and an available BOSE® Premium Audio System for an immersive driving experience. With its 800-volt architecture, rapid DC fast charging, and signature Porsche driving dynamics, the 718 EV redefines what a performance EV should be: sporty, smart, and exhilarating.

Performance Features and Capabilities​

The 2027 Porsche 718 EV is engineered for visceral excitement and track-level capability. Anchored by a lightweight, purpose-built electric platform, the base model features a rear-mounted motor that offers sharp, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, while the GTS variant delivers a commanding dual-motor all-wheel-drive experience. Acceleration is explosive thanks to immediate torque delivery, sending the EV from zero to sixty in under four seconds. The advanced 800-volt system powers high-output performance and supports rapid energy regeneration, helping maximize driving time and minimize charging intervals.

Beyond speed, the Porsche 718 EV shines with refined driving manners and motorsport-bred agility. An adaptive suspension system reads the road in real time, adjusting damping for optimal balance between comfort and cornering grip. Multiple selectable drive modes give drivers complete control over throttle response, steering feedback, and suspension stiffness, tailoring the vehicle to any environment. From twisty canyon roads to urban expressways, the 718 EV’s performance DNA ensures it drives like a Porsche should, fast, connected, and emotionally thrilling.

Interior and Exterior Design​

Sleek, sculpted, and unmistakably Porsche, the 2027 Porsche 718 EV blends athletic aesthetics with cutting-edge EV styling. Its silhouette echoes the legendary mid-engine proportions of previous 718 models while incorporating modern enhancements like a Taycan-inspired front fascia, active aero elements, and flush door handles. Signature LED matrix headlights and a full-width rear light bar contribute to the futuristic profile, while aerodynamically tuned wheels reduce drag and elevate presence on the road. Lightweight composite panels help offset the battery’s weight, keeping the car agile and responsive.

Inside, the 2027 Porsche 718 EV combines motorsport influence with luxurious refinement. Upholstery options include Alcantara, Nappa leather, and sustainable trims, with contrast stitching and carbon fiber inserts adding a premium, performance-focused touch. Sport seats with enhanced bolstering provide security in high-G maneuvers while remaining supportive for daily commutes. Every surface and layout decision reflects Porsche’s legacy of precision and functionality.

Entertainment and Safety Technology​

Technology in the 2027 Porsche 718 EV is thoughtfully integrated to enhance every moment behind the wheel. The centerpiece of the cabin is Porsche’s next-generation infotainment system, featuring a fully digital cockpit with seamless Apple CarPlay® integration, voice-controlled navigation, and an optional augmented reality head-up display. Over-the-air updates keep all systems current, while wireless charging and a customizable interface ensure connectivity feels effortless. For audiophiles, BOSE® and Burmester premium sound systems deliver concert-grade acoustics.

On the safety front, the 2027 Porsche 718 EV includes an intelligent suite of driver assistance technologies designed to inspire confidence. Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, Lane Keep Assist, and autonomous emergency braking. Available enhancements like Lane Change Assist and traffic sign recognition provide added reassurance in urban and highway driving. The all-electric platform also benefits from a low center of gravity and optimized crumple zones, improving stability and collision protection. Porsche blends innovation and peace of mind in a way only it can.

Porsche 718 EV Trim Options​

Base​

Starting MSRP: $78,000 est.

• Rear-mounted single electric motor
• 0–60 mph in approximately 4.7 seconds
• 19-inch aero-optimized alloy wheels
• Synthetic leather upholstery with contrast stitching
• Curved digital instrument cluster with touchscreen infotainment

S​

Starting MSRP: $91,000 est.

• Upgraded rear electric motor with higher output
• Estimated 0–60 mph in 4.2 seconds
• 20-inch performance wheels with sport tires
• Adaptive suspension and sport-tuned chassis
• Premium interior with Alcantara and aluminum trim accents

GTS​

Starting MSRP: $105,000 est.

• Dual-motor all-wheel-drive system
• Estimated 0–60 mph in under 4 seconds
• Active aerodynamics and matrix LED headlights
• BOSE® premium surround sound system
• Track-optimized drive modes with launch control

Porsche 718 EV FAQs​

What is the estimated starting price of the 2027 Porsche 718 EV?

The 2027 Porsche 718 EV is expected to start around $78,000, with higher trims reaching up to $105,000.

What are the engine options for the 2027 Porsche 718 EV?

The 2027 Porsche 718 EV offers a rear-motor single-drive base model and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive GTS version.

How fast is the 2027 Porsche 718 EV?

Depending on the configuration, the 2027 Porsche 718 EV can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 4 seconds.

What is the electric range of the 2027 Porsche 718 EV?

The estimated electric driving range for the 2027 Porsche 718 EV is over 250 miles on a full charge.

What charging speeds does the 2027 Porsche 718 EV support?

The vehicle features 800-volt architecture with DC fast charging capabilities up to 270 kW.

What technology is included in the 2027 Porsche 718 EV?

Key tech features include an augmented reality head-up display, digital cockpit, and Apple CarPlay® compatibility.

Does the 2027 Porsche 718 EV offer advanced safety systems?

Yes, it includes Lane Change Assist, adaptive cruise control, autonomous braking, and blind spot monitoring.

Is the 2027 Porsche 718 EV available in convertible form?

While a coupe is expected at launch, a convertible Boxster version will likely follow in the same model year.

What platform is the 2027 Porsche 718 EV built on?

It rides on a new, lightweight EV-specific platform optimized for sports car performance.

When will the 2027 Porsche 718 EV be available?

The vehicle is anticipated to launch in 2026 as a 2027 model year offering, with pre-orders likely beginning before.

 

[Motorhead]

Just speculation I reckon Jimbo. Probably put together by a salesperson with time on their hands [now that they’re not selling any Caymans and Boxsters] and trying to drum-up some interest in the much delayed EV replacements!

There’s nothing of substance there that anyone with a working knowledge of 718 Caymans - and performance EVs in general - couldn’t come up with. If those dollar prices are in the right ballpark we can expect similar numbers in pounds sterling for the UK market. So much for entry-level Porsches being affordable, although as usual the cost of PCPs and leasing deals will be the overriding factor!

Jeff

 

[Scrounger]

I can’t see a GTS starting at £79k. Thats not much more than the ICE version.

Dan.

 

[Motorhead]

Just to be clear Dan, my take on it was that the base Cayman would be £78k, with the GTS coming in at £105k, which seems a more likely price spread.

Jeff

 

[A8 SPY]

GTS​

Starting MSRP: $105,000 est.

• Dual-motor all-wheel-drive system
• Estimated 0–60 mph in under 4 seconds
• Active aerodynamics and matrix LED headlights
• BOSE® premium surround sound system
• Track-optimized drive modes with launch control