We Drove Porsche’s All-Electric Cayenne Prototype
▼ Summary
– Porsche provided travel and accommodation for Ars to test a prototype Cayenne Electric, with Ars maintaining editorial independence.
– The Cayenne Electric features a uniquely curved touchscreen that flows between dashboard and console, which the author initially disliked but came to appreciate.
– The electric SUV is expected to deliver over 1,000 horsepower and more than 300 miles of range, with a planned release next year.
– Porsche introduced the original Cayenne in 2002 amid controversy but it gained respect for its performance and capability over time.
– The upcoming Cayenne Electric will be available in base, S, and Turbo trims, with the Turbo potentially being Porsche’s most powerful production vehicle.
Porsche recently offered a unique opportunity to experience their upcoming Cayenne Electric prototype, providing an exclusive first drive that reveals what the future holds for this highly anticipated SUV. The journey from initial skepticism to genuine admiration began the moment I laid eyes on its revolutionary interior design.
Rather than following the industry trend of simply adding curved displays, Porsche took a far more ambitious approach. The center touchscreen flows seamlessly between the dashboard and console with a pronounced, organic bend. At first glance, dragging a finger across that distinctive kink felt awkward, but after a full day behind the wheel, my opinion completely reversed. The layout proved not only functional but intuitive, leaving me surprised that no other automaker has attempted this elegant design solution.
That screen, however, is just one highlight in a vehicle packed with innovation. Porsche’s upcoming Cayenne Electric promises over 1,000 horsepower and a driving range exceeding 300 miles, positioning it as a formidable contender in the luxury electric SUV segment. Although it won’t arrive in showrooms until next year, early impressions strongly suggest it will be worth the wait.
Since its controversial debut in 2002, the Cayenne has evolved from a divisive model into a respected performer, admired both on and off the road. The electric iteration appears poised to elevate that legacy significantly. Porsche plans to release three variants: a base model, a sportier Cayenne S, and a top-tier Cayenne Turbo. While final power figures are still under wraps, engineers hinted that the range-topping version will likely surpass 1,000 horsepower. If those numbers hold, the Cayenne Electric could become the most powerful production vehicle in Porsche’s history, rivaling even the extreme performance of the Taycan Turbo GT.
(Source: Ars Technica)
