Porsche kills gas-powered Boxster and Cayman — upcoming 718 models will be electric (and faster?)

Porsche has closed orders for the 718 Boxster and Cayman with internal combustion engines. The brand has not announced a final production date but confirmed the transition: the 718 name will return as an electric model, focusing on performance, efficiency, and a purist driving experience.

Why did Porsche end gasoline-powered 718 Boxster and Cayman?

Three factors determined the decision: completion of the model lifecycle, advancement of the electrification strategy, and costs related to updating vehicle architecture for new digital regulations. In short, maintaining the ICE 718 models no longer made strategic sense given the return of the 718 electric versions.

Orders have been closed globally; anyone wanting a new one will need to look for remaining units in stock. To understand the broader context of this shift, see when the gasoline 718 models come to an end and how this repositions the 718 family within Porsche’s lineup.

When does production end and what happens until then?

Porsche has not announced a final date. Industry reports suggest that existing backlog might take time to produce, possibly extending beyond a single model year. The practical consequence: last units are likely to become collector’s items, especially in the most desirable versions (4.0 naturally aspirated, manual transmission, special editions).

While the 718 models are phased out, the sports car lineup remains strong and continues to raise performance standards. The 911, for example, continues evolving while maintaining the brand’s mechanical identity — see how the new 911 enhances performance and upholds the internal combustion engine pillar in the short term.

What to expect from the 718 electric models in performance and versions?

The development plan includes versions with one motor (RWD) and two units (AWD), focusing on immediate torque response, software-based force vectoring, and a chassis tuned for a lightweight feel. The implicit goal is to deliver acceleration and torque response superior to the gasoline 718, without compromising feedback and balance.

It’s natural to expect technical heritage from the Taycan: high voltage, active thermal management, broad energy recuperation, and fine calibration of the pedal. Porsche’s experience with its electric sedan helps predict engineering solutions — including details mentioned in the Taycan Black Edition, which hint at strategy for packages and positioning.

Likely technical pillars of the 718 EV

• High-voltage architecture
• RWD and AWD with e-axles
• Software-based torque vectoring
• Broad regenerative braking
• Liquid-cooled battery
• Chassis with a low center of gravity

Are these gasoline 718 models becoming classics and good investments?

Naturally aspirated 4.0 versions, manual transmissions, and final editions are likely to be the most coveted. The combination of communicative steering, the sound of the flat-six, and the “last batch” of an icon with a lightweight mid-engine drivetrain sustains the case for long-term value appreciation. Still, passion-driven purchases should come before speculation.

Porsche also maintains a sporty appeal in electric vehicles, offering a modern alternative for those seeking daily usability without compromising performance. Good examples include sophisticated plug-in hybrids like the Panamera 4 E‑Hybrid, reinforcing that fun and efficiency can coexist.

Quick comparison: 718 EV vs 718 ICE vs competitors

• 718 EV: instant responses
• 718 ICE: sound and tactile feedback
• EV: likely stronger 0-60 mph acceleration
• ICE: lighter mass and raw feel
• Rival electric cars: focus on technology
• Rival combustion models: high-rev charisma

Key milestones in the 718 transition

• End of ICE 718 orders
• Backlog still in production
• Expected arrival of 718 EV by mid-term
• Plans for RWD and AWD versions
• Goal: EV faster than ICE

FAQs — essential questions

• Have gasoline 718 models stopped being produced? Orders have ended; production continues until the backlog is cleared.
• When will the 718 electric models arrive at dealerships? The brand is aiming for the next product cycle, with launches before fully ending the ICE legacy.
• Will there be rear-wheel-drive options? Yes, RWD with one motor and AWD with two motors are expected.
• Will the 718 electric models be faster? The expectation is to surpass the acceleration and torque response of the ICE versions.
• Will the 911 continue with internal combustion? The 911 remains a pillar, with ongoing evolution and integration of new technologies.

To understand how electric sports cars are expanding across the lineup, the brand’s SUV also provides clues about platform and power electronics — see what changes in the next-generation Macan and how this influences the tuning of upcoming 718 models.

Now it’s your turn: what would be your “perfect 718” — the last ICE collector’s edition or the first electric with RWD/AWD? Share your thoughts in the comments.