Porsche is re-evaluating its all-electric future. After targeting an EV-centric lineup by 2030, the German automaker is making some changes in response to growing customer demand for internal combustion engine (ICE) options.
Recent statements from Chief Financial Officer Lutz Meschke indicate that Porsche will integrate ICE and hybrid power into models initially designed as pure EVs. This decision comes amid a notable decline in sales of the Taycan, Porsche’s flagship electric sedan, coupled with strong demand for traditional powertrains among Porsche’s core customers.
At a recent earnings call, Meschke revealed a slowdown in demand for EVs within Porsche’s premium customer base, explaining, “A lot of customers in the premium and luxury segment are looking in the direction of combustion-engined cars.” (via CarScoops)
This shift has meant Porsche is revisiting its product plans. However, several models in the pipeline are unlikely to receive ICE or hybrid powertrain adaptations. These include the 718 Boxster and Cayman, which were initially designed and intended to be fully electric vehicles, and are expected to launch soon.
Adapting these models to accommodate ICE or hybrid power would present engineering and financial challenges. Retrofits of EV-focused designs are complex, often requiring substantial reengineering efforts that could take years and substantial investments.
The company’s flexible production strategy could facilitate this shift. Meschke highlighted that Porsche’s Leipzig facility can produce combustion, hybrid, and electric models on the same line.
Porsche’s decision to continue investing in ICE models while advancing EV development is part of a broader trend in the auto industry, with automakers reassessing electrification goals as they gauge consumer readiness and regulatory impacts.
