Key points about the upcoming Porsche electric 718s
- They will be fully electric, with a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive.
- They will be based on a dedicated EV platform, which could help to keep the weight down.
- Porsche wants to keep the weight of the electric 718s below 3,650 pounds, which would make them lighter than the current gas-powered models.
- They are expected to have a range of around 250 miles.
- Porsche will continue to offer the current 718 alongside the new electric models for a period of time.
Porsche
Porsche’s first electric sports car prototypes, based on a redesigned 718 Boxster convertible, have been spotted during testing. The car is set to be launched by 2025, as confirmed by Porsche CEO Oliver Blume. Alongside this, an electric 718 Cayman coupe is also in development.
Although heavily camouflaged, the prototypes reveal certain design features. Such as active shutters in the front air intakes and a light strip forming the taillights. The car emits the characteristic whir of an electric powertrain. A fake exhaust vent is included to deceive observers. While an active rear wing may be positioned along the leading edge of the rear deck.
Electric Sports Car
The electric 718 will offer both rear- and all-wheel drive options. Drawing from the Mission R concept, it will sport a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system delivers up to 670 hp in race mode and a temporary 1,073 hp for short qualifying runs. Its design cues were previewed by the Porsche Mission R concept, signalling Porsche’s intent to venture into electric racing.
Mission R concept
The electric 718’s proportions are reminiscent of the current 718, yet with a wider and lower front end. Drawing inspiration from the Mission R.It targets a curb weight of around 3,650 pounds. While exact range details are unavailable, the Mission R concept boasted an 80-kWh battery with an estimated range of 250 miles.
Built on a dedicated EV platform, which closely resembles that of the Mission R, the electric 718’s battery configuration forms a T-shape, maintaining a low height and balanced weight distribution akin to mid-engine cars.
Innovation
Porsche’s shift towards EVs means the next-generation 718 will be entirely electric, with the gas-powered version phased out. However, Porsche plans to continue offering the current 718 alongside the new electric variant, similar to their approach with the Macan and Cayenne models.
The rising demand for premium EVs has prompted Porsche to revise its electrification strategy. It now anticipates that half of its lineup will comprise full-battery electric cars by 2025, with only the 911 retaining an internal combustion engine by 2030.
Environmental Responsibility
Interestingly, Porsche’s foray into electric sports cars dates back to the 2011 Boxster E prototype, showcasing an early attempt at EV technology featuring a 29-kWh battery and a 240-hp electric motor.
Conclusion
Porsche’s groundbreaking venture into the realm of electric sports cars is rapidly taking shape. With prototypes of the electrified 718 Boxster convertible undergoing rigorous testing, the automaker’s commitment to a future dominated by electric mobility is unmistakable.
The forthcoming electric 718 models, including the Boxster convertible and Cayman coupe, promise a harmonious fusion of innovative design, impressive performance, and sustainable driving.
Active Shutters
In retrospect, Porsche’s journey into the realm of electric sports cars was initiated with the 2011 Boxster E prototype. This early experiment paved the way for the groundbreaking innovations witnessed in the upcoming electric 718 lineup.
In essence, the electric sports car prototypes are tangible embodiments of Porsche’s unwavering commitment to innovation, performance, and environmental responsibility. With these prototypes signalling the dawning of a new era, Porsche is poised to electrify the automotive world and leave an indelible mark on the history of high-performance electric vehicles.
Image Source: Motorauthority
