The Electric 718 Isn’t Dead—and the Gasoline Version is Making a Comeback

Lately, rumors have been swirling that the electric 718 was discontinued. However, Porsche has officially debunked these claims.

They are reverse-engineering the PPE Sport platform—initially developed exclusively for EVs—to redesign it for a mid-engine layout that can also accommodate a gasoline engine. The electric version is expected to debut next year, while a gasoline RS model is anticipated around 2030. This means the next-generation 718 will exist as both an EV and an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle. Amid Porsche’s shifting EV strategies, the 718 stands as a symbolic model bridging the old and new eras.

According to insiders, the gasoline variant is required to match the electric model’s “dynamic performance.” Achieving this will be challenging: the dedicated EV platform boasts an exceptionally low center of gravity, so the mid-engine gasoline setup will have to come very close to that. Porsche’s acceptance of this condition speaks volumes about their confidence in the technology.

The Euro 7 Challenge: Can It Surpass the Roar of the 981 and 718?

Hearing that the gasoline engine is making a comeback doesn’t bring pure excitement for me—honestly, it stirs more concern.

I own two cars: a 718 Spyder RS and a 981 Boxster GTS. The Spyder RS packs a 4.0L naturally aspirated flat-six derived from the GT3, emitting a piercing roar up to its 9,000 rpm rev limiter. The 981 Boxster GTS with its 6-speed manual offers the raw pleasure of a final-generation naturally aspirated engine. The intake note when you floor the throttle, and the exhaust melody intensifying as the engine climbs—I frankly can’t imagine an engine built under the harsh Euro 7 emissions and noise regulations surpassing that exhilaration.

Stricter regulations mean larger catalytic converters and tighter constraints on exhaust routing. Noise limits suppress engine sound itself. Of course, Porsche’s engineers will do everything possible. Still, within these physical limits, replicating that unique, rev-happy sensory thrill of a high-revving NA engine at the same level seems extremely challenging. This is likely why Porsche concluded they can’t rely solely on gasoline engines going forward.

Why Continuing the EV 718 Is the Right Call

On the contrary, I fully support Porsche’s decision to continue the electric 718.

Even if EV production fluctuates in the short term, the long-term trend is unavoidable: EVs will outnumber gasoline vehicles. This isn’t just about “EVs being the right choice.” It’s about the future of autonomous driving. In theory, self-driving tech can work with gasoline engines. But internal combustion engines suffer from response lag and idle issues, complicating autonomous systems. Building self-driving tech on such a platform would require massive costs and complex controls. Electric motors can adjust output in milliseconds, making them far more compatible with autonomous driving.

As EVs become mainstream, charging infrastructure and battery technology will advance rapidly. While there are still inconveniences today, this progression is irreversible. Considering this, the decision to scrap the electric 718 would have been shortsighted. I believe Porsche’s choice to stand firm was absolutely the right move.

The Potential of a Compact EV Sports Car

Personally, I have high hopes for the electric 718.

From daily drives in the Taycan Turbo GT, I keenly feel the low center of gravity and instantaneous torque that an EV platform delivers. Imagine squeezing that agility into the smaller, lighter 718 chassis. Combining a low battery floor, instant torque without gear shifts, the electric 718 could even outperform current models in spirited everyday driving. I genuinely look forward to taking one for a spin.

Of course, the visceral pleasure of the engine sounds from the 718 Spyder RS or 981 Boxster GTS can never be replicated by an EV. I fully acknowledge that. But driving enjoyment isn’t only about sound. It’s about sharp body movements, road feedback through the steering, and the smooth, powerful throttle response exiting corners. In these areas, EV sports cars hold tremendous promise.

I eagerly anticipate a future where both gasoline and electric 718s coexist—each offering unique thrills to Porsche enthusiasts.