Summary
- Porsche customers prefer combustion engine cars over EVs
- Sales of combustion-powered 718 models increased by 10% in 2023
- Recent statements by a Porsche official hint at a possible return to combustion engines
- Porsche may bring back combustion engines to vehicles that are currently fully electric
- The company is considering adding combustion engines to the next-generation 718 sports car to satisfy customer demand
Article
Porsche Customers Prefer Combustion Cars Over EVs
Porsche recently stated that its customers are showing a strong preference for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles over electric vehicles (EVs). The sales of the combustion-powered 718 models saw a 10% increase from January through September of this year. This preference for ICE vehicles has prompted the manufacturer to consider keeping ICE vehicles in its lineup for a longer period and potentially reintroducing combustion engines to vehicles that are currently fully electric.
Luxury Automakers Reconsider Electric Vehicle Strategies
Luxury automakers, including Porsche, had previously committed to transitioning to all-electric vehicles in the coming years. However, recent statements by Porsche board member Lutz Meschke revealed that there has been a slowdown in the transition to battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and a growing demand for combustion-powered cars among premium and luxury customers. This has led Porsche to reconsider its electric vehicle strategy and potentially retain combustion engine options in its lineup.
Porsche’s Electric Vehicle Sales Outlook
Porsche had initially projected that EVs would account for 80% of its sales by 2030, with plans to keep only the 911 as a combustion model. However, recent statements from company officials suggest a shift in strategy towards retaining and even refreshing combustion engine models like the Panamera and the Cayenne. The decision to prioritize combustion engine vehicles will be based on customer demand and the development of electromobility in various regions around the world.
Potential Reversal of Electric Vehicle Plans
Porsche’s commitment to electrification remains strong, but the company is considering reintroducing combustion engines to certain models in response to customer preferences. This reversal of electric vehicle plans aligns with the growing trend of luxury customers favoring internal combustion cars over electric alternatives. Porsche aims to maintain flexibility in its research and development efforts to meet evolving customer demand for both combustion and electric vehicles.
Considerations for Porsche’s Electric and Hybrid Lineup
Porsche’s upcoming electric vehicles, including the Macan EV and the 718 sports car, may see changes in their powertrain configurations to accommodate customer preferences. While the Macan EV was initially designed for pure electric power, Porsche may opt to keep the combustion Macan in its lineup alongside the electric version. The brand’s focus on offering both electric and hybrid options underscores its commitment to meeting the diverse needs of its customer base.
Challenges and Opportunities for Porsche in the EV Market
Despite its success in the luxury automotive sector, Porsche faces challenges in the electric vehicle market, as evidenced by declining sales of the Taycan. The company’s decision to potentially reintroduce combustion engines to its lineup reflects a balance between meeting customer demands and maximizing profitability. Porsche’s strategic approach to incorporating combustion, electric, and hybrid models in its portfolio demonstrates its ability to adapt to market trends and consumer preferences.
Read the full article here
