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Electric Porsche Boxster Welfare Check: Alive and Testing With Near-Final Design
Byron Hurd
The all-electric Porsche 718 EV is still deep in development. Here’s proof of life.
The electric Porsche Boxster has been one of the most anticipated shifts in the sports car landscape for years. As the market transitions toward sustainable mobility, Porsche has committed to electrifying its core lineup, and the iconic mid-engine roadsters—the Boxster and its coupe counterpart, the Cayman—are no exception. But what’s the actual progress on the Porsche 718 EV? While prototypes have been circling the Nürburgring for ages, we finally have more clarity on what to expect from this next-generation machine.
The Long Road to Electrification
It’s easy to feel like the electric Porsche 718 has been stuck in development purgatory. The road to this all-electric future hasn’t been smooth. For a while, there were whispers that the project might be shelved entirely as Porsche grappled with the engineering challenges of electrifying its lightweight, mid-engine chassis without sacrificing its legendary handling dynamics.
However, earlier this year, Porsche’s parent company, Volkswagen Group, indirectly confirmed that the project was still alive and well. Volkswagen revealed that its Audi division was developing a new TT sports car to share the same underpinnings as the Porsche 718 EV. This move signaled that the platform was viable and that Audi was essentially hedging its bets on the same EV architecture, ensuring economies of scale and keeping the program on track.
For years, we’ve watched prototypes of the electric 718 lap the ‘Ring, constantly evolving as engineers fine-tuned the powertrain and aerodynamics. Recently, the EV has shed some of its most visually disruptive camouflage, giving us a clearer view of the body side and most of the rear end that will likely feature in the production model.
Design and Aesthetics: Back to Basics
Perhaps one of the most striking observations from the latest prototypes is how conventional the electric Porsche Boxster actually looks. Without being told otherwise, you wouldn’t necessarily know that this is an EV. The body lines remain familiar, adhering to the sleek, fluid silhouette that has defined the Boxster for decades.
Keen-eyed observers might note a slightly elongated rear end compared to the standard gas car—a subtle modification necessary to accommodate the battery pack and thermal management systems. However, in the grand scheme of things, it’s a minor adjustment. Porsche’s designers have managed to integrate the electrification seamlessly into the existing aesthetic, ensuring the Porsche 718 EV remains quintessentially Porsche.
Performance Expectations: The Next Generation
If it’s been a while since you’ve seen video footage of this car testing, you might not be aware of how far it has come. Motor1 first shared spy footage of the prototype Boxster EV at the Ring, shot by CarSpyMedia back in 2023. In those earlier videos, the car wore heavier camouflage designed to throw off casual viewers and spy photographers. Cladding on the rear of the vehicle hid the production-ready end, and a fake exhaust system helped sell the illusion that it was just a quiet gas model.
Hearing the vehicle in motion, though, was enough to tell anyone that this is an EV. Beyond the rush of the air and the sound of the tires, there was very little engine noise emanating from the car.
Drivetrain Architecture and AWD Option
Traditionally, the Porsche Boxster and Cayman duo have been rear-wheel-drive-only models. However, the electric 718 is expected to deviate from this tradition. There is strong speculation that the EV model will introduce a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive variant.
This makes sense for an electric sports car, as the increased torque and power from two motors can provide better traction and performance, particularly when accelerating out of corners. While Porsche has not officially confirmed the drivetrain configurations, the prevailing wisdom is that the electric Porsche Boxster and Cayman will be available with both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive options, giving drivers a choice between pure handling focus and maximum performance.
Release Timeline and Arrival Date
Initially, we had hoped that the electric 718 would arrive sometime in 2024 or 2025. As history shows, that did not happen. The development process has been longer and more complex than anticipated, but the car is finally nearing production.
Porsche has confirmed that the Porsche 718 EV is slated to be released in the second half of 2026, with production beginning in late 2025. This timeline gives Porsche ample time to finalize the engineering and quality control, ensuring the car meets the stringent standards expected of a Porsche.
The Driving Experience: What to Expect
When the electric Porsche Boxster finally arrives, it will be a game-changer. Porsche is committed to maintaining the lightweight, agile driving dynamics that the Boxster is famous for, even as it transitions to electric power.
Platform Technology
The Porsche 718 EV will ride on the new Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture. This platform, developed jointly with Audi, is specifically designed for electric sports cars and luxury sedans. It features an 800-volt electrical architecture, which allows for ultra-fast charging speeds and efficient power delivery.
The battery pack will be integrated into the chassis, contributing to a lower center of gravity and improving handling. Porsche is aiming for a range of around 300 miles on a single charge, which is competitive for a sports car.
Performance Figures
While the exact performance figures are not yet public, we can expect the electric Porsche Boxster to offer staggering acceleration. The dual-motor variant is rumored to produce over 500 horsepower, allowing the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 3.0 seconds.
Despite the added weight of the battery pack, Porsche is committed to keeping the electric 718 light and nimble. The company is exploring lightweight materials and innovative design solutions to minimize the weight penalty and maintain the car’s legendary agility.
What This Means for You
The arrival of the Porsche 718 EV signals a significant shift in the sports car market. As more consumers transition to electric vehicles, manufacturers are responding with more engaging, performance-oriented EV options.
The Purchase Decision
If you’re considering buying a Porsche 718 EV, now is the time to start researching and planning. The car is slated for release in 2026, and demand is expected to be high. As this is the first-ever all-electric Porsche sports car, it is likely to hold its value well and become a collector’s item in the future.
Comparing with Gas Models
If you’re currently considering a gas-powered Porsche 718, you should weigh the pros and cons of waiting for the electric version. The electric Porsche Boxster will offer faster acceleration, lower running costs, and zero emissions. However, it will also likely come with a higher price tag.
If you’re looking for the ultimate driving experience, you should consider the electric 718 if you’re seeking cutting-edge performance and environmental responsibility. If you prefer the classic Porsche experience with the familiar sound and feel of a combustion engine, you might want to stick with the gas-powered models while they are still available.
Should You Buy, Wait, or Rent/Invest?
For those in the market for a sports car, the decision to buy now or wait for the Porsche 718 EV depends heavily on your priorities and timelines.
Option 1: Buy Now (Gas Model)
If you want the classic Porsche Boxster experience right now and you’re on a tighter budget, waiting for the electric 718 might not be the best option. Current models are cheaper and more accessible. Furthermore, prices for internal combustion engine sports cars are likely to hold steady or even increase in the short term, as they are no longer being developed.
However, you miss out on the cutting-edge performance, lower running costs, and environmental benefits of the electric 718.
Option 2: Wait for the Electric Porsche Boxster (2026)
If you’re willing to wait, the electric 718 promises a revolutionary driving experience. It offers faster acceleration, better handling, and zero emissions. It’s also likely to be a collector’s item, making it a good investment for the future.
However, you must be patient. The car won’t be released until late 2026, and you’ll likely have to wait longer to take delivery. You’ll also pay a premium for this cutting-edge technology.
Option 3: Rent a Sports Car
If you need a sports car for a specific event or you want to experience a Porsche before committing to a purchase, renting is a great option. You can rent a variety of Porsche models, from the Boxster to the 911, and experience the thrill of driving a Porsche without the long-term commitment of ownership.
Option 4: Invest in the EV Transition
For those interested in the long-term prospects of electric sports cars, investing in the EV transition is a smart move. Consider investing in companies that are developing electric vehicles, battery technology
