Credits By: Arab News
Porsche Unveils Ambitious Electric Strategy, Targeting 80% EV Sales by 2030
Porsche, the esteemed German luxury automaker, has disclosed its strategic vision to gradually transition towards electrification, with the objective of electric vehicles constituting 80% of its sales by 2030. In a bold move, the company also aims to preserve its revered 911 model as the sole remaining internal-combustion engine offering, a senior executive has revealed.
The automotive industry has been keenly observing Porsche’s plans, particularly in its investments in e-fuels and advocacy for the European Union to permit sales of such vehicles post-2035.
Porsche’s association with e-fuels has been underscored by its investment in the Chilean energy company HIF Global. The forthcoming transformation will commence with the electrification of the compact SUV Macan, followed by the iconic 718 sports car and then the highly popular Cayenne. Karl Dums, the leader of Porsche’s e-fuels team, highlighted that the 911, which contributed 13% to sales in 2022, will be the exception.
Karl Dums explained, “Our primary strategy is transitioning to electric mobility, and we intend to continue producing the 911 with a combustion engine for as long as possible.”
Crucially, Porsche’s plans for electric vehicles and e-fuels remain distinct and separate endeavors, as confirmed by Dums.
E-fuel, derived from captured carbon dioxide and renewably produced hydrogen, has gained attention for its potential carbon-neutrality, as the CO2 it emits upon combustion is considered balanced by its initial production process.
While HIF Global’s e-fuels are primarily directed toward aviation and heavy vehicles, most passenger cars are projected to shift towards electric power, according to Dums.
Industry experts predict that e-fuels will likely find their luxury niche, high-end models. Larger automakers are anticipated to shift away from introducing new e-fuel vehicles beyond 2035, following substantial investments of $1.2 trillion into electrification.
In a parallel trajectory, Ferrari, like Porsche, has sought an EU exemption for e-fuels, emphasizing that 80% of its lineup will embrace electric or hybrid technologies by 2030.
Notably, several smaller automakers aspire to cater to affluent consumers willing to pay a premium for high-performance e-fuel models. These models could offset the expense of e-fuel, which currently costs up to $12.90 per liter (10 pounds).
Morgan Motor Co. and Briggs Automotive Company (BAC) also embark on distinctive paths. While Morgan plans to introduce an electric model in the coming years, it anticipates continued demand for e-fuel-powered combustion-engine vehicles among its customer base well beyond 2035.
Similarly, BAC, recognized for crafting customizable, single-seater race cars, has observed a need for more enthusiasm for EVs among its clientele, according to Chairman Mike Flewitt.
