Porsche is making a bold statement to petrolheads: internal combustion engines (ICE) are here to stay. While many automakers are pivoting entirely toward electric vehicles, Porsche is doubling down on its commitment to gasoline power. The German luxury brand has confirmed that two of its flagship models, the Panamera and Cayenne, will continue to feature gas-powered engines "far into the 2030s."
This revelation comes amid shifting industry goals as Porsche recalibrates its electrification plans. While EVs remain a significant part of its future, the company acknowledges that the transition to a fully electric lineup will take longer than initially expected.
Porsche’s decision stems from a realistic reassessment of its electrification targets. Initially, the company aimed for EVs to account for 80% of its sales by 2030. However, during the Annual Press Conference, CEO Oliver Blume admitted this goal is now "unrealistic." Currently, only 12.7% of Porsche’s sales come from fully electric vehicles, signaling that market demand and infrastructure are not yet ready for an immediate full-scale shift.
The Panamera, which recently transitioned to a new generation, and the Cayenne, which underwent a major facelift in 2023, will continue evolving with gasoline and hybrid powertrains. Porsche has also reassured enthusiasts that the Cayenne will retain its V8 engine beyond 2030, while both models are expected to keep their V6 options as well. Plug-in hybrid versions will remain integral, offering improved electric range to bridge the gap between ICE and full electrification.
Porsche’s commitment to ICE does not mean abandoning EVs. The brand is pressing ahead with a diverse product roadmap that includes a fourth-generation, electric-only Cayenne debuting later this year, along with the highly anticipated electric 718 Boxster and Cayman. Additionally, a larger three-row electric SUV is set to arrive within the decade.
Meanwhile, Porsche remains a strong advocate for eFuels, which are synthetic fuels designed to reduce carbon emissions without eliminating traditional engines. The company has invested in its eFuel production facility in Punta Arenas, Chile, where it successfully filled its first 911 with nearly carbon-neutral fuel in late 2022.
While Porsche’s long-term vision still includes electrification, its latest move confirms that it won’t be rushing the transition. Instead, it’s choosing a balanced approach, one that keeps petrol-powered driving alive while developing innovative technologies for a sustainable future.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.
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