In switching to electrification, the Cayenne has a tricky job on its hands. While the move to zeroemissions power for the brand's largest SUV is inevitable – and, indeed, was confirmed for 2026 at the firm's 2023 AGM – it nevertheless remains a multifaceted machine needing to be all things to all people. On account of it being a Porsche, it must be sporty to drive. As an SUV, it must be practical and comfortable with long-range capabilities for family life. And, as a top-end, luxury fourby, there are plenty who need the Cayenne to be a strong tow car.
Without wishing to denigrate electric vehicles (EVs), these characteristics are at odds with what current zero-emission car technology brings to the party. For example, in order for an electric Cayenne to have a three-hundred-mile-plus operating range, it'll need a big battery pack. This means it will be very heavy, especially when topped off with the opulent fixtures and fittings required of a premium SUV. Making it dynamic in corners will take much in the way of electronically controlled chassis trickery. If the electric Cayenne is heavy, then it might trigger an issue with the maximum allowed
