Porsche launches Cayenne electric production amid shifting EV strategy
By Abbas Nazil
Porsche has officially begun series production of its all-electric Cayenne Electric SUV, signaling continued commitment to battery-powered vehicles despite recently slowing its broader electric vehicle rollout strategy.
The German automaker confirmed that manufacturing is now underway at Volkswagen Group’s production facility in Bratislava, Slovakia, where the electric model is being built alongside traditional combustion engine and hybrid versions of the Cayenne.
The move comes only months after Porsche announced it would delay parts of its electric transition in response to changing global market conditions and growing uncertainty in the automotive industry.
Despite those concerns, the company has moved forward with the Cayenne Electric, positioning it as a key part of Porsche’s electrified future.
First unveiled in November, the Cayenne Electric delivers up to 642 kilometres of driving range, supported by a large 113 kilowatt-hour battery designed entirely in-house by Porsche engineers.
The vehicle also offers a remarkable power output of up to 850 kilowatts, making it the most powerful production Porsche ever manufactured.
Charging capabilities reach up to 400 kilowatts, allowing for faster recharging times and improved long-distance usability compared to earlier electric models.
Porsche says the Cayenne Electric represents a major technological leap, combining performance, efficiency and advanced battery engineering under one platform.
Battery modules for the vehicle are being produced at Porsche’s Smart Battery Shop in Horná Streda, located north of the Bratislava production site.
This in-house battery development is part of the company’s strategy to maintain control over quality, innovation and long-term electric vehicle performance.
The Cayenne Electric is manufactured on the same flexible production line as internal combustion and hybrid models, allowing Porsche to quickly adjust output based on global market demand.
Company executives say this mixed production approach provides resilience during a period when consumer preferences and regulatory environments remain unpredictable.
Porsche board member Albrecht Reimold described the Cayenne Electric as a transfer of Porsche’s performance DNA into the future, emphasizing high manufacturing standards and technological leadership.
He noted that combining multiple drivetrain types on one production line allows the company to meet diverse customer needs across different markets worldwide.
The launch comes at a time when many automakers are reassessing electric vehicle timelines due to supply chain pressures, rising costs and slower-than-expected adoption in some regions.
While Porsche has introduced new combustion engine models in response to market realities, the start of Cayenne Electric production suggests the brand is balancing short-term flexibility with long-term electrification goals.
Industry analysts view the Cayenne Electric as a strategic move to maintain Porsche’s reputation for high-performance innovation while gradually expanding its electric portfolio.
With production now underway, the Cayenne Electric is expected to play a central role in Porsche’s premium EV segment and strengthen the company’s presence in the global electric SUV market.
The model reflects how traditional luxury automakers are navigating the complex transition toward cleaner mobility while preserving profitability, customer loyalty and technological leadership.