Porsche reports global sales dip and pauses all‑electric 718 development

Porsche announced it is putting development of the all‑electric 718 successor on indefinite hold, choosing to extend production of the combustion‑engine 718 with its flat‑six powerplant into the 2030s. The decision was attributed to weakening demand for electric sports cars and resistance from enthusiasts.

In the first half of 2026 the German automaker recorded a 16% decline in worldwide sales, with the sharpest drops affecting its electric models and the Chinese market, where deliveries fell 32%. Sales of the Taycan fell 25% to 6,219 units and the Panamera dropped 38% to 9,308 units. The 718 Boxster and Cayman saw a 73% plunge as production of the current generation ended. By contrast, the iconic 911 saw a 19% sales increase, reaching 30,534 units, driven by stronger demand for higher‑performance variants.

Porsche linked the downturn to reduced consumer interest in EVs, the slowdown of China's automotive sector, the loss of U.S. tax incentives and rising tariffs. The company remains focused on its flagship 911 and is exploring hybrid options and synthetic fuels to sustain performance while meeting emissions standards.