**Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman to Retain Combustion Engines**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 20, 2025, 06:46 PM*
**What’s the Story?**
Porsche has announced a significant shift in its electric vehicle strategy. The next-generation 718 Boxster and Cayman models will continue to offer combustion engine options for their “top” variants. This move aligns with the automaker’s broader plan to revamp the combustion engine and plug-in hybrid versions of the Cayenne and Panamera, ensuring these models remain relevant well into the 2030s, according to Porsche CEO Oliver Blume.
**Strategic Shift and Financial Impact**
As part of this strategy, Porsche will halt the development of the SSP 61 ‘Sport’ version of Volkswagen Group’s platform, resulting in a €1.8 billion financial hit. Originally, this platform was intended to support the K1 large SUV, along with electric successors for the Panamera and Taycan. Blume explained that the decision reflects a “clear drop in demand for exclusive battery-electric cars.”
**Update on the K1 Model**
The much-anticipated K1, described by Porsche as a ‘D-SUV,’ will now launch with combustion engine and plug-in hybrid variants instead of being fully electric. However, the company has not disclosed a specific launch date for this model. The change in plans follows a noticeable decline in luxury good demand in China, coupled with the US’s imposition of higher tariffs on imported vehicles.
**Financial Outlook**
These combined challenges are expected to reduce Porsche’s predicted net profit margin to around 2% for the current year. Nevertheless, the company remains optimistic about the medium-term outlook, aiming to boost margins above 10% with the introduction of new products.
Blume emphasized the company’s confidence in its revised approach:
*”This flexibility gives us a strong position with a compelling mix of combustion engines, plug-in hybrids, and battery electric vehicles.”*
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With this strategic pivot, Porsche is balancing tradition and innovation to adapt to shifting market demands while maintaining its renowned performance legacy.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/porsche-to-offer-combustion-engines-in-next-gen-718-models/story
