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Auto Car
a day ago
- Automotive
- Auto Car
Everything you need to know about the new Porsche Cayenne – including its 986bhp punch!
Top-spec version of new Porsche EV poised to be UK's most potent SUV Open gallery Close Porsche is about to take the boldest step yet on its electrification journey by revealing a fourth-generation, battery-electric version of its most popular model, the Cayenne SUV. To be unveiled in production form later this year, the new model will be on sale in the UK this time next year. However, recognising the risk of launching a full EV version of its biggest-selling model into markets whose demand for such cars continues to waver, the firm will carry on selling and developing its existing ICE-powered Cayenne at least until 2035, said a Porsche spokesman, 'and maybe beyond that'. A prototype version of the new electric Cayenne, still covered in camouflage, appeared in action at last week's Goodwood Festival of Speed, driven at full tilt on the hill by GT racer and Porsche development driver Gabriela Jilkova, who the previous weekend took the prototype up the historic Shelsley Walsh hillclimb in just 31.3sec – a full four seconds quicker than any SUV previously. Porsche won't yet reveal full engineering details of its new Cayenne EV, but the model is taller and longer than the petrol car, sits on a longer wheelbase and is said to 'feel a bit bigger when you drive it'. It also has a generously sized frunk in the nose. All versions of Weissach's new electric SUV – likely to be offered in a threemodel line-up of Cayenne, Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo – will have two-motor, four-wheel-drive layouts, using Porsche's own design of motors front and rear. The rear motor is new and was developed after it was found that the Cayenne EV needed more power at the back axle. The company isn't yet revealing power outputs for its three models, but they are likely to be around 395bhp for the entry model, 590bhp for the S and more than 986bhp (1000PS) for the Turbo version – which would make it the UK's most powerful SUV. Details of the EV's official touring range are still being worked out, but Porsche's target is understood to be around 370 miles. That would put it on a par with the longest-legged Lotus Eletre, its closest rival. Porsche hasn't yet revealed the Cayenne EVs' performance fi gures, but the Turbo should be 'at least as quick' as the lighter but less powerful top-spec combustion-powered model, posting a 0-62mph time of under three seconds and an eye-watering 0-124mph time of around 10 seconds. Top speeds of all three Cayennes are understood to be restricted to 155mph, as is the case with all Porsche SUVs. All versions will use active dampers for their allindependent suspension systems, and top models at least are likely to have rearwheel steering to improve both low-speed agility (bearing in mind the longer wheelbase) and high-speed stability. Porsche is still developing the final details of the new EVs' interiors, and it won't yet allow the cabins to be photographed. However, it is understood that, as with the Taycan and rival luxury EVs, the Cayenne driver will be able to switch on a synthesised engine sound – including one produced from recordings of 'a genuine Porsche V8 engine' – if desired. Sascha Niesen, verification and validation manager for the Cayenne EV, said there are 'no surprises' in the new model's basic layout compared with that of the Macan EV, but the torque distribution system has been improved over the Macan system, to cope with the extra power, bulk and weight and because Porsche's policy is to carry out very detailed development programmes for every model. 'We require every one of our cars to be naturally well behaved, before the electronics come into play,' said Niesen. 'Our chassis systems are there to help, but not to hide chassis flaws.' UK launch details for the car have yet to be released, but it is likely the company will start taking orders early next year for deliveries in the early summer. First ride: Porsche Cayenne Electric It's fairly tall. And quite large. Not quite Range Rover large, maybe, but on the way. The new Porsche Cayenne EV – in which I'm about to take to the Goodwood Festival of Speed's hillclimb at full speed – is the biggest Porsche they make. We're sitting high. You might imagine that cars with three-second 0-60mph potential ought to be squeezed right down onto the road, but not this one. From my vantage point I look forward along the track, down the tree-lined avenue to the first double-apex right-hander, wondering what this Cayenne's body roll will feel like when we get there at full noise. Actually, I guess I've already got an idea. This is a Porsche, and a fat-tyred Porsche with latest-gen active dampers at that. I'll back it to stay planted in a 1g corner. There are other good reasons for this Cayenne's height. For one, we're sitting on top of a 100kWh-plus traction battery. And despite what I understand to be an output of more than 1000 horses from its two-motor set-up, this machine is also claimed to be a competent off-roader, which means it needs ground clearance. My driver is Gabriela Jilková, a successful GT racer from the Czech Republic who does a lot of development driving for Porsche, especially in fast stuff. She's keen to move up the ranks from GT4 racing if the chance comes. Which it's bound to do. 'Quick Gabi', as she's known, looks small yet very much at home in the Cayenne EV's big, bolstered seat, but as we ease quietly up to the line, she's already wearing that expression of calm concentration you see on the faces of serious racing drivers accustomed to the tension of a full-on start. Suddenly we're at the head of the queue. The Taycan ahead disappears around the track's double right-hander and now it's our turn. This may be an EV but we're hearing the Cayenne's optional synthesised V8 burble at proper volume. And here, it seems entirely appropriate. The Goodwood starter gives us the thumbs-up. I expect extremely hard acceleration but what I get is an explosion. My head hits the restraint behind, I'm depressed several inches into upholstery that previously felt firm and my innards are rapidly rearranged. The loads are all instant, yet it's surprisingly quiet in here. Nobody will yet tell me how much torque this thing has, but it's got to be four figures of foot-pounds. Even though it's all deployed at once via four fat 22in Pirelli P Zeros, there's barely a squeak of wheelspin. That's what electronics can do. The trees either side are a blur, and we've got to be doing 90mph when we turn in to that first double-apex. Gabi dabs the brakes – I think – though retardation probably comes as much from this EV's powerful regenerative braking. We clip the grass apexes twice and then the awesome acceleration begins again. Out of the trees, the track straightens and widens. I glimpse thousands of blurred faces either side as our Cayenne bolts past the big house on the left and under the bridge at a speed that in other hands might seem deeply crazy. There's time for a lightning glance at Gabi – still ice cool, making tiny, timed steering movements – and then we're approaching Molecomb, the reverse camber left-hander hidden beyond a little brow that has been the ruin of many a worthy Goodwood entrant over the years. Not this time. We storm through it as if on rails, my body pinned into the seat. As we burst into sunlight, I'm aware again of crowds in stands on either side. Then we see the famed Flint Wall straight ahead. It looks like a serious obstacle at first sight, but when you get there, it's a fast, precise, right-then-left jink, easy for Gabi and the Cayenne. Transitions like that can upset high-riding cars, but the Porsche is planted like a sports car. This is a sports car. The rest of the run is easy, a big left and right, and then we're back under the shade of the trees. Up a shaded tunnel we go, flashing across the finish line. This may well be the quickest electric minute of my life. I've made an agreement with myself to glance at the speedo as we finish, but of course I forget. It's hard to remember stuff in an environment like this but our speed has got to be 100mph-plus. Gabi says 115mph. I see the blurred face of the finish-line marshal and then it's over. Speed bleeding away, we ease up to the marshalling loop at the top of the hillclimb, where you wait for other runners in your batch to congregate for the dog-slow return to the pits. 'Good,' says Gabi with a contented smile. 'Fantastic,' say I. Join our WhatsApp community and be the first to read about the latest news and reviews wowing the car world. Our community is the best, easiest and most direct place to tap into the minds of Autocar, and if you join you'll also be treated to unique WhatsApp content. You can leave at any time after joining - check our full privacy policy here.
Geeky Gadgets
09-07-2025
- Automotive
- Geeky Gadgets
Porsche Cayenne Electric Prototype: Hill Climb Record
The Porsche Cayenne Electric is poised to transform the SUV market, seamlessly blending high-performance capabilities with everyday practicality. As Porsche's second all-electric SUV, the Cayenne Electric builds upon the legacy of its predecessors, offering a perfect combination of speed, stability, and utility. Designed to cater to both thrill-seekers and families alike, this electric SUV promises to set new benchmarks in the automotive industry, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of electric vehicles. The Cayenne Electric represents a significant step forward in Porsche's electrification strategy, showcasing the brand's commitment to delivering innovative technology and uncompromising performance. With its sleek design, advanced features, and impressive specifications, the Cayenne Electric is set to capture the attention of automotive enthusiasts and environmentally conscious consumers worldwide. Record-Breaking Performance The Porsche Cayenne Electric recently demonstrated its exceptional prowess at the historic Shelsley Walsh hill climb, where it shattered the previous SUV record by an astonishing four seconds. Equipped with the advanced Porsche Active Ride system, the SUV exhibited remarkable stability and precision, even on the narrow and steep course. The Cayenne Electric's ability to navigate challenging terrain with such ease is a testament to Porsche's engineering expertise and dedication to pushing the limits of performance. Watch this video on YouTube. One of the most impressive feats of the Cayenne Electric is its incredible acceleration. With a 0-60 feet acceleration time of just 1.94 seconds, this electric SUV rivals the performance of single-seater racing cars. This achievement highlights the immense potential of electrification in delivering unparalleled performance, shattering preconceived notions about the limitations of electric vehicles. The Cayenne Electric's record-breaking performance is not limited to straight-line speed. Its advanced chassis and suspension systems, coupled with the instant torque delivery of its electric motors, enable the SUV to tackle corners and twisty roads with exceptional agility and precision. This level of performance is a clear indication of Porsche's unwavering commitment to creating vehicles that offer an exhilarating driving experience, regardless of their powertrain. Everyday Usability Meets Innovation While the Porsche Cayenne Electric's record-breaking speed is undoubtedly impressive, it is not the only aspect that sets this SUV apart. Beyond its performance capabilities, the Cayenne Electric is designed with everyday usability in mind. Its robust build and advanced thermal management system allow it to tow up to an impressive 3.5 tonnes, making it one of the first battery electric vehicles (BEVs) to achieve such a feat. This capability opens up a world of possibilities for owners, whether they need to transport a classic car to a show or simply haul a boat to the lake for a weekend getaway. The Cayenne Electric's versatility extends beyond its towing capacity. Its spacious interior, coupled with Porsche's renowned craftsmanship and attention to detail, ensures that passengers can enjoy a comfortable and luxurious experience, even on long journeys. The SUV's advanced infotainment system and connectivity features keep occupants entertained and informed, while the intuitive controls and ergonomic design make driving a breeze. Porsche's commitment to innovation is evident in every aspect of the Cayenne Electric. The SUV incorporates innovative technology, such as regenerative braking and intelligent energy management, to optimize its range and efficiency. The advanced thermal management system not only enables impressive towing capabilities but also ensures that the battery maintains optimal operating temperatures, even under demanding conditions. These innovative features demonstrate Porsche's dedication to creating vehicles that not only perform exceptionally but also integrate seamlessly into the lives of their owners. Pricing and Availability While Porsche has not yet announced the official pricing for the Cayenne Electric, industry experts anticipate that the SUV will be positioned as a premium offering within the electric vehicle market. Given Porsche's reputation for delivering high-quality, performance-oriented vehicles, it is expected that the Cayenne Electric will command a price point commensurate with its advanced features and capabilities. The market launch of the Porsche Cayenne Electric is highly anticipated, with automotive enthusiasts and industry insiders eagerly awaiting its arrival. While an exact date has not been confirmed, Porsche has indicated that the SUV will be available in the near future. To generate further excitement and showcase the Cayenne Electric's capabilities, Porsche has planned several public appearances, including a highly anticipated showcase at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed in July 2025. This event will provide enthusiasts and potential buyers with an opportunity to witness the Cayenne Electric's performance firsthand and experience the future of electric SUVs. Specifications Performance: The Porsche Cayenne Electric has already proven its exceptional performance capabilities, setting a new record at the Shelsley Walsh hill climb with a time of 31.28 seconds. Additionally, its 0-60 feet acceleration time of just 1.94 seconds puts it on par with some of the most elite racing cars in the world. The Porsche Cayenne Electric has already proven its exceptional performance capabilities, setting a new record at the Shelsley Walsh hill climb with a time of 31.28 seconds. Additionally, its 0-60 feet acceleration time of just 1.94 seconds puts it on par with some of the most elite racing cars in the world. Chassis: Equipped with the advanced Porsche Active Ride system, the Cayenne Electric offers unparalleled stability and precision, even in the most challenging driving conditions. This innovative technology ensures that the SUV maintains optimal handling and control, regardless of the terrain or speed. Equipped with the advanced Porsche Active Ride system, the Cayenne Electric offers unparalleled stability and precision, even in the most challenging driving conditions. This innovative technology ensures that the SUV maintains optimal handling and control, regardless of the terrain or speed. Towing Capacity: The Cayenne Electric features an impressive towing capacity of up to 3.5 tonnes, depending on the specific configuration. This capability sets it apart from many other electric vehicles and highlights its versatility as a practical and reliable SUV for everyday use. The Cayenne Electric features an impressive towing capacity of up to 3.5 tonnes, depending on the specific configuration. This capability sets it apart from many other electric vehicles and highlights its versatility as a practical and reliable SUV for everyday use. Tyres: During the record-breaking hill climb at Shelsley Walsh, the Porsche Cayenne Electric was fitted with conventional summer tyres. This choice demonstrates the SUV's ability to deliver exceptional performance without relying on specialized or custom tyre setups. During the record-breaking hill climb at Shelsley Walsh, the Porsche Cayenne Electric was fitted with conventional summer tyres. This choice demonstrates the SUV's ability to deliver exceptional performance without relying on specialized or custom tyre setups. Market Launch: While an exact date has not been announced, the Porsche Cayenne Electric is expected to hit the market in the near future. Automotive enthusiasts and potential buyers can look forward to a public appearance of the SUV at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July 2025, where they can witness its capabilities firsthand. Explore More For those intrigued by the Porsche Cayenne Electric, exploring Porsche's broader electrification strategy may provide additional insights into the brand's vision for the future of mobility. Porsche has demonstrated a commitment to developing a diverse range of vehicles, including hybrid and combustion engine models, ensuring that there is an option to suit every preference and need. This approach allows Porsche to cater to a wide audience while gradually transitioning towards a more sustainable future. In addition to the Cayenne Electric, Porsche's advancements in thermal management and active suspension systems highlight the company's dedication to innovation and performance. These technologies not only enhance the capabilities of electric vehicles but also have the potential to transform the automotive industry as a whole. By continuously pushing the boundaries of what is possible, Porsche remains at the forefront of automotive engineering and design. For enthusiasts and potential buyers alike, the Porsche Cayenne Electric represents an exciting glimpse into the future of luxury SUVs. With its unparalleled performance, everyday usability, and innovative technology, the Cayenne Electric sets a new standard for what an electric vehicle can achieve. As the market for electric SUVs continues to grow, the Cayenne Electric is poised to make a significant impact, redefining the expectations of drivers worldwide. Source Porsche Filed Under: Auto News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Yahoo
07-07-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Richard Hammond drives Porsche Cayenne EV prototype
Richard Hammond drives Porsche Cayenne EV prototype originally appeared on Autoblog. The days when automakers hid their camouflaged prototypes from the public are long gone. Last month, a prototype of the forthcoming electric Porsche Cayenne was entered in the Shelsley Walsh hill climb in the United Kingdom—and set a record. Now Porsche has revealed that the stunt was documented in a film shoot with former Top Gear and The Grand Tour host Richard Hammond. Hammond, who once rolled a Vauxhall Nova hatchback at Shelsley Walsh as part of a Top Gear episode, was given the Cayenne EV prototype for a quick review that was Sunday on the DriveTribe YouTube channel. The video is a little light on details, though, as the Cayenne Electric (as Porsche calls it) isn't scheduled to start deliveries until 2026, likely making it a 2027 model in the United States. One detail Porsche was willing to reveal was a maximum towing capacity of 7,716 pounds—the same as the current internal-combustion Cayenne. Hammond demonstrated that by towing a vintage Lagonda, estimated to weigh about 4,000 pounds with its trailer. Not surprisingly for a Porsche-sanctioned video, the Cayenne Electric prototype didn't seem to have any trouble with this task. Porsche also promises more power than any current Cayenne model, Hammond says in the video. That means it will exceed the 729 horsepower of the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid plug-in hybrid. Electric models will also be available with the Porsche Active Ride anti-roll system previously seen in the Taycan and Panamera. For the hill-climb runs, Hammond handed the Cayenne over to Gabriela Jílková, simulator and development driver for the Porsche Formula E team. Jílková covered the 1,000-yard course, which climbs a 16.7% grade, in 31.28 seconds, beating the previous SUV record by more than four seconds. She also covered the first 60 yards in 1.94 seconds, a time normally achievable only with purpose-built single-seaters on slick tires, Porsche claims. The Cayenne prototype ran on summer road tires. Porsche plans to bring the camouflaged prototype to the Goodwood Festival of Speed this month, but the automaker hasn't said when the camo will finally come off. When that time comes, the Cayenne Electric will take its place alongside standard gasoline and plug-in hybrid Cayenne models. Richard Hammond drives Porsche Cayenne EV prototype first appeared on Autoblog on Jul 7, 2025 This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Jul 7, 2025, where it first appeared.
Auto Blog
07-07-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Richard Hammond drives Porsche Cayenne EV prototype
By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Porsche Aims To Build Excitement For The Cayenne Electric's Debut The days when automakers hid their camouflaged prototypes from the public are long gone. Last month, a prototype of the forthcoming electric Porsche Cayenne was entered in the Shelsley Walsh hill climb in the United Kingdom—and set a record. Now Porsche has revealed that the stunt was documented in a film shoot with former Top Gear and The Grand Tour host Richard Hammond. Hammond, who once rolled a Vauxhall Nova hatchback at Shelsley Walsh as part of a Top Gear episode, was given the Cayenne EV prototype for a quick review that was Sunday on the DriveTribe YouTube channel. The video is a little light on details, though, as the Cayenne Electric (as Porsche calls it) isn't scheduled to start deliveries until 2026, likely making it a 2027 model in the United States. Putting The 'Utility' In 'Sport Utility Vehicle' One detail Porsche was willing to reveal was a maximum towing capacity of 7,716 pounds—the same as the current internal-combustion Cayenne. Hammond demonstrated that by towing a vintage Lagonda, estimated to weigh about 4,000 pounds with its trailer. Not surprisingly for a Porsche-sanctioned video, the Cayenne Electric prototype didn't seem to have any trouble with this task. Porsche also promises more power than any current Cayenne model, Hammond says in the video. That means it will exceed the 729 horsepower of the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid plug-in hybrid. Electric models will also be available with the Porsche Active Ride anti-roll system previously seen in the Taycan and Panamera. Hill-Climb Record Holder Source: Porsche For the hill-climb runs, Hammond handed the Cayenne over to Gabriela Jílková, simulator and development driver for the Porsche Formula E team. Jílková covered the 1,000-yard course, which climbs a 16.7% grade, in 31.28 seconds, beating the previous SUV record by more than four seconds. She also covered the first 60 yards in 1.94 seconds, a time normally achievable only with purpose-built single-seaters on slick tires, Porsche claims. The Cayenne prototype ran on summer road tires. Porsche plans to bring the camouflaged prototype to the Goodwood Festival of Speed this month, but the automaker hasn't said when the camo will finally come off. When that time comes, the Cayenne Electric will take its place alongside standard gasoline and plug-in hybrid Cayenne models. About the Author Stephen Edelstein View Profile
Car and Driver
07-07-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
Porsche Teases Cayenne EV at Historic Hill Climb Ahead of Reveal
Porsche brought a camouflaged prototype of the Cayenne Electric to a historic English hill climb, giving us a clearer look at its smooth bodywork. The Cayenne Electric will be fitted with Porsche Active Ride, which keeps the body level when blasting through corners or braking hard. Porsche also said the Cayenne Electric will be able to tow up to 7716 pounds. Porsche has been hard at work on an electric version of its popular Cayenne SUV, which is expected to arrive at some point in 2026 and will exist alongside the gas-powered Cayenne for the time being. Now, Porsche has shared the first official look at the Cayenne EV, taking the electric SUV to the long-running Shelsley Walsh hill climb in England and publishing a series of photos of the new EV in camouflage. Porsche The Shelsley Walsh hill climb has been running since 1905, and Porsche brought the Cayenne Electric prototype to compete in the historic event with Porsche Formula E development driver Gabriela Jílková behind the wheel. Porsche described the prototype as "near-production," suggesting that the bodywork is basically in its final form. The Cayenne Electric sports classic Porsche styling, with a large grille in the lower bumper and high-mounted headlights. The rounded body concludes with chunky rectangular taillights and a slight slope to the roofline. The automaker says Jílková beat the previous record time for an SUV by over four seconds in her first run up the hill and divulged a few key details about the Cayenne Electric that helped it scoot up the incline with ease. One is Porsche Active Ride, the brand's trick suspension system that keeps the body level during acceleration, steering, and braking. Porsche also promises a potent powertrain, noting that the summer-tire-shod Cayenne Electric covered the first 180 feet in 1.94 seconds, which it says is a result typically reserved for single-seat race cars on slick tires at the event. Porsche As part of a film project tied to the hill climb, former Top Gear and Grand Tour host Richard Hammond used the Cayenne Electric to haul a century-old Lagonda, with Porsche claiming a towing capacity for the EV of up to 7716 pounds. Porsche confirmed that the Cayenne Electric and standard Cayenne—which is offered with gas-only and hybrid powertrains—will be sold together "well into the next decade." The camo'd Cayenne Electric will make its next appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed later this week, and we expect a full debut either late this year or early next year. Caleb Miller Associate News Editor Caleb Miller began blogging about cars at 13 years old, and he realized his dream of writing for a car magazine after graduating from Carnegie Mellon University and joining the Car and Driver team. He loves quirky and obscure autos, aiming to one day own something bizarre like a Nissan S-Cargo, and is an avid motorsports fan.
