Porsche discontinues Cayman and 718 Boxster in Europe

ABU DHABI: Porsche has announced the discontinuation of European Cayman and 718 Boxster models due to stringent cybersecurity regulations that will go into effect on July 1st, 2024 in Europe. Due to their older electrical architecture, these models couldn’t adhere to the new cybersecurity laws.

The new directive necessitates various technical adjustments, such as procedural and control unit changes during the development of the vehicle, like cybersecurity-certified management systems. Management and documentation of cybersecurity risks throughout the life cycle of the vehicle are required, which was not at all feasible during the development of the 718 models. However, current models collaborate with the global security community and undergo regular cybersecurity checks.

While there is no confirmation about the gas-powered replacements, the next-generation 718 upon its 2025 release is expected to be all-electric, with current models still operational in other markets than Europe for the time being. The next-gen all-electric 718, scheduled for debut in 2025, will be available with current gas variants. While in EU markets the 718 isn't configurable, new Cayman or 718 can be purchased from existing stock. However, unsold cars will become unregistrable after July 1, necessitating quick action for buyers.

The discontinuation of 2014-debuted Macan and 2016-debuted 718 is unlikely to majorly affect the sales of Macan because of its phenomenal global sales in comparison to the 718 lineup.

Also read: Bentley pushes back debut of its first EV to 2026