Recent developments within the Volkswagen Group (VWG) under Oliver Blume’s leadership, particularly at Porsche, may be influencing the timeline for the highly anticipated Porsche 718 Ev. Since Blume’s takeover, VWG has initiated two significant projects: the formation of BatteryCo, leveraging Quantum Scape’s Solid State Battery (SSB) technology, and a joint venture with Rivian for electronic architecture and software development. VWG intends to integrate these advancements across all its brands, including Porsche.
Could the rumored delay of the 718 EV be attributed to a strategic rethink, aiming to incorporate these cutting-edge technologies? Solid State Batteries promise a significant reduction in battery weight for a given capacity, crucial for maintaining the agility expected of a Porsche sports car like the 718. This weight reduction, while preserving a 250-mile range, could greatly enhance the appeal of the electric 718 to potential buyers. Moreover, the 718’s lower production volume compared to the 911 makes it a less risky platform for introducing a fully electric sports car and these novel technologies.
External factors, such as the rumored financial difficulties of battery supplier Northvolt, might have also prompted Porsche to reconsider its EV strategy, granting valuable time amidst a fluctuating global EV market. Interestingly, Porsche might be considering mirroring BMW’s flexible approach, offering customers a choice between ICE, PHEV, and EV powertrains within the same vehicle model. While this approach involves compromises, it could be a pragmatic solution for navigating the transitional period in the automotive industry, especially given the typical 4-year product lifecycle. Another four years will undoubtedly bring further technological advancements and market evolution, making strategic flexibility paramount for Porsche and the 718 EV.
