The Porsche Cayenne Electric brings the nameplate into the EV age.
After years of waiting, we finally have the all-new, all-electric and first-ever Porsche Cayenne Electric alongside its high-performance sibling, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo Electric. These models are meant to complement the existing range of combustion, hybrid and plug-in hybrid Cayenne models, ultimately giving the customer the freedom to choose between powertrain options. This year so far, 36% of all Porsche vehicles sold globally have been electrified.
The new Porsche Cayenne Electric is built on an 800V architecture, allowing for up to 390kW-400kW DC fast charging, taking the state of charge from 10 to 80% in just 16 minutes. The Cayenne Electric integrates a newly-developed 113kWh high-voltage battery that’s engineered with double-sided cooling. This is also the first Porsche model to introduce optional inductive charging, which gives customers at-home 11kW WIRELESS charging.
The electric motors handle nearly all braking operations, up to 97%, in fact, making energy recuperation a big factor in the way the Cayenne Electric drives – up to 600kW of recuperative power, in fact. WLTP range is quoted at up to 642km. It’s worth noting that the Cayenne Electric model is 55mm longer than the standard model with a wheelbase increase of about 13cm. The luggage capacity is 781 litres, which expands to 1,588 litres with the seats down and there’s a 90 litre frunk.
The all-electric Cayenne family debuts with two models: the Cayenne Electric and the Cayenne Turbo Electric, both equipped with all-wheel drive and electronic Porsche Traction Management (ePTM). The Cayenne Turbo Electric boasts an impressive maximum output of up to 850 kW (1,156 PS) and 1,500 Nm of torque with Launch Control. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.5 seconds, reaching a top speed of 260 km/h.
Notably, it features direct oil cooling for the rear axle electric motor, an innovation inspired by motorsport, and includes a Push-to-Pass function that provides an additional 130 kW (176 PS) for 10 seconds. The entry-level Cayenne Electric offers a maximum output of up to 325 kW (442 PS) and 835 Nm of torque with Launch Control. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and has a top speed of 230 km/h. Depending on equipment level, the Cayenne Electric has a towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes.
Chassis and Driving Dynamics
The standard features on both models include adaptive air suspension with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), while rear-axle steering, capable of up to five degrees, is available as an optional upgrade. The Turbo model offers the option of Porsche Active Ride, an advanced suspension system designed to virtually eliminate body movements for a smoother ride. Its progressive, aerodynamic design achieves an impressive drag coefficient of 0.25, positioning it among the most aerodynamic SUVs in its class. It also incorporates Porsche Active Aerodynamics (PAA), featuring movable cooling air flaps, an adaptive roof spoiler, and active aeroblades at the rear of the Turbo. The exterior design is marked by a low bonnet, sleek Matrix LED headlights, and the signature sloping flyline roof. An optional Off-Road package is available to enhance approach angles and durability for rugged terrains.
At the heart of the design is the Flow Display, a curved OLED panel that boasts the largest combined display area ever featured in a Porsche. Enhancing the driving experience, a head-up display with augmented reality technology is now available for the first time in the Cayenne.
The innovative Voice Pilot employs AI to comprehend complex, context-aware commands, while the Porsche Digital Key transforms smartphones and smartwatches into vehicle keys, easily shareable with up to seven users. Adding to the luxury, new Mood Modes allow for customised adjustments to seating, lighting, climate, and display settings. For superior interior comfort, panel heating warms the armrests and door panels, complemented by an electrically switchable sliding Panoramic Roof with Variable Light Control. Distinctive Turbonite-colored contrasting elements accentuate the Turbo model.
It’s clear the Porsche Cayenne Electric will miss the tax-free window for fully-imported vehicles. However, the Porsche Cayenne is locally-assembled in ICE and hybrid form, so there’s a real chance the electric version could come here too.
