Porsche is set to embark on a new chapter in its storied history as it prepares to discontinue production of the beloved 718 Boxster and Cayman with internal combustion engines (ICE) by mid-2025. This decision, announced by Porsche production manager Albrecht Reimold, aligns with the automaker’s global electrification strategy.
India will also witness the end of an era as Porsche has halted bookings for the ICE-powered 718 models. While existing orders will be fulfilled, the iconic sports cars will soon be replaced by their all-electric successors.
Slated for a 2025 release, the fifth-generation Cayman and Boxster will be exclusively electric, marking a significant departure from the petrol-powered models that have captivated enthusiasts for years. Built on a bespoke electric sports car platform, the new EVs will be produced at Porsche’s Zuffenhausen plant and are designed to retain the coveted mid-engined feel of their predecessors. This platform is also expected to underpin future electric models from Audi and Lamborghini.
The current generation of 718 models has evolved over the years, with initial disappointment over the switch from flat-six to flat-four engines eventually giving way to acclaim for the performance-oriented Boxster Spyder, Cayman GT4, and subsequent GTS variants equipped with the potent 4.0-litre flat-six.
While the Macan and Cayenne have been Porsche India’s sales stalwarts, the 718 models have contributed significantly to the overall sales figures. As the automotive industry undergoes a transformative shift towards electrification, Porsche’s decision to electrify its iconic sports cars underscores the brand’s commitment to sustainable mobility while preserving the essence of its performance heritage.