Why the Next Porsche 911 Needs an Electric Version
Porsche is rapidly electrifying its lineup. The all-electric Taycan is already a hit, the new Macan has an EV variant, and plans are underway for an electric Panamera, Cayenne, and 718. But there’s one glaring omission: the iconic 911. The question remains: Why doesn’t the legendary sports car have a battery-electric version?
Zelectric has already built all-electric versions of Porsche models, indicating that the technology is available.
At this year’s Porsche press conference in Stuttgart, the focus was on the launch of the all-new Cayenne EV, a new SUV with internal combustion and hybrid powertrains, and derivatives of the 911. However, a crucial statement slipped in: “Its customers will still be able to choose between combustion engines, plug-in hybrids, and all-electric drivetrains in every vehicle segment well into the 2030s.” Is this a hint that an all-electric 911 is on the horizon?
When asked, Porsche PR rep Frank Wiesmann clarified, “In this case, we’re referring to our two-door sports cars as one segment. The 911 is offered with a combustion engine and a very sporty t-hybrid powertrain while our two-door sports car in the 718 segment will be fully electric in the future.”
So, why the reluctance to embrace an electric 911? Is it fear of alienating the die-hard enthusiasts who cherish the traditional internal-combustion experience?
While the rear-wheel-drive internal combustion 911 should always be celebrated, the introduction of a 532-hp 911 Carrera GTS with a turbocharged “T-Hybrid” six-cylinder powertrain suggests that Porsche is open to innovation. If the hybrid can achieve a 2.9-second sprint to 60 mph, imagine what an all-electric 911 could do. The all-electric Taycan Turbo S already achieves this feat in 2.6 seconds.
Porsche is making significant strides in EV adoption. So far this year, 44% of US Macan buyers are choosing the EV model. After the Cayenne EV launch later this year, the 718 Boxster and Cayman will also go fully electric. This leaves the 911 as the last holdout.
Porsche CEO Oliver Blume has stated that a fully electric 911 is unlikely due to its rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive design. However, Porsche engineers in Weissach have extensive experience developing hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric powertrains that don’t compromise performance. One could argue that electric powertrains are a natural progression.
Perhaps sales are the key factor. While 911 sales increased in the US, Taycan EV sales decreased. Could an electric 911 capture a new audience?
What are your thoughts on an all-electric 911?
