Porsche States It ‘Cannot’ Allow Electric 718 Cayman Exceed 4,000+ Pounds in Weight

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Advancing safety standards and added technology have significantly impacted the curb weights of modern cars, including sports cars. The trend towards electrification has further exacerbated this issue, with numerous high-performance EVs surpassing 4,000 pounds, and some even exceeding the 8,000-pound mark. However, you won’t find any EV bearing the Porsche emblem crossing those weight thresholds, as long as Frank Moser holds the reins of the 718 and 911 models.

In a conversation with The Drive, Moser emphasized that when faced with the decision between greater range and reduced weight in electrified Porsche sports cars, he unequivocally opts for the latter. Despite the continuous weight gains experienced by both the 718 and 911 models over time, maintaining a lightweight construction remains a fundamental aspect of their identity, a principle that must endure even as they transition to electrification.

“We are not aiming to dominate the [electric] range competition,” Moser emphasized, referencing the complexities of engineering an electric 718 Boxster and Cayman. “Our focus is on striking the right balance between weight and range.”

“Whilst range is crucial for us, the vehicle in question is not intended for long-haul trips, such as from Munich to Hamburg,” he elaborated. “It will offer an adequate range, but as I mentioned, my top priority is to maintain low weight in two-door sports cars, even amidst electrification.”

The trade-off between EV range and weight primarily hinges on the size of the EV’s battery, which provides diminishing returns as battery capacity increases. A 100-kilowatt-hour battery doesn’t double the range of a 50-kWh pack because it introduces substantial weight, necessitating the vehicle to be engineered to accommodate this added mass. This sets off a cycle of increasing inefficiencies that ultimately compromise overall performance.

The additional weight inherently impedes acceleration, braking, and handling, further accelerating wear on brakes and tires. This is why Lotus founder Colin Chapman famously advocated for the principle of “simplify, then add lightness.” Porsche boasts a comprehensive understanding of the physics governing performance cars, which is why Moser stressed that “keeping the weight as minimal as possible is non-negotiable. We cannot produce a two-ton, two-door sports car.”

“The essence of all our sports cars lies in their lightweight design. That’s our primary focus – maintaining a lightweight construction,” continued Moser. “However, we must also contend with regulatory aspects, such as crash safety, pedestrian protection, and other factors that contribute to the increase in vehicle weight. Developing truly lightweight cars is an incredibly challenging task. Two-door sports cars must strive to achieve the lowest weight possible.”

This philosophy extends not just to the 718 model, which is rapidly approaching its electric iteration, but also to the 911, despite its continued use of internal combustion engines for the foreseeable future. The upcoming hybrid variant is poised to be the most potent among the 992 series and likely surpass the new GT2 RS, yet an official electric 911 is not currently on the horizon. This decision, in part, stems from the necessity – once again – for the 911 to preserve its lightweight essence, as outlined by Moser.

“The 911 holds a unique position; it’s an iconic vehicle,” Moser concluded. “For me, the paramount objective is to ensure the car remains lightweight, maintaining its status as a truly exceptional sports car. This encapsulates the essence of the 911 as we pave the way forward.”

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