While Porsche focuses on the next-gen fully electric Cayenne, it will also maintain its combustion-engined variants. Amid uncertainties about an EV-only future, Porsche confirmed that the current Cayenne will be available alongside the new EV model, featuring three powertrain variants – ICE, hybrid, and EV – well into the next decade.
"Porsche is simultaneously moving forward with the development of its powerful hybrid and combustion engine models. Up to and beyond 2030, the successful SUV will be offered with three powertrain variants worldwide," the company stated.
Oliver Blume, CEO of Porsche AG, confirmed that the fourth-generation Cayenne EV will debut in the mid-2020s, setting new standards in the electric SUV segment. Blume assured that customers will continue to have a wide range of powerful and efficient combustion and hybrid models to choose from into the next decade. This is possible through "further upgrading" the current third-generation Cayenne, which will be sold alongside its EV successor.
Porsche plans to keep the twin-turbo V8 powertrain alive. Engineers are enhancing the V8’s efficiency with "extensive technical measures" to meet future legislative requirements and extend its availability.
The third-generation Cayenne, introduced in 2017 and updated in 2023, will likely require another facelift to remain competitive beyond 2030.
Despite this multi-pathway strategy for the Cayenne, Blume emphasized Porsche’s commitment to electromobility. He stated that the goal is for over 80 percent of new car sales to be fully electrified by 2030, contingent on customer demand and the progress of electromobility worldwide.
The announcement included details about the fully electric Cayenne, currently being tested on public roads after an "extended phase of digital development and testing." Camouflaged prototypes will cover "several million test kilometers globally under extreme conditions" to ensure readiness for a probable 2025 launch.
Cayenne prototype
The electric Cayenne will utilize an enhanced version of the VW Group’s Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, integrating the latest in "high-voltage systems, powertrain, and chassis" technology. The development aims to achieve "Porsche driving characteristics, high-capacity and stable charging, high efficiency, and high levels of comfort and usability."
Source: Porsche
