The CEO of Porsche, Klaus Zellmer, published a piece on USA Today about the future of the electric vehicle (EV). Despite the majority of vehicles on the road today being powered by internal combustion (read: gas), Zellmer says people want electric.
He credits Tesla for helping EVs become more common and even sought-after, saying that Tesla’s Model 3 has been purchased more than other premium sedans in the United States.
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Zellmer says that consumers are ready to embrace EVs, despite disagreement among experts about their longevity. While some say EVs will dominate the auto world in the next two decades, others say consumers really aren’t that interested and there will be millions of these cars left unsold in the next decade.
However, Zellmer remains optimistic. He says Tesla has proven that there is a “significant demand” for cars that are sustainable with enhanced performance and design. Zellmer also points out the fact that charging stations for EVs have become more common in the US, which could encourage customers to make the switch from gas to electric.
Porsche is certainly on board with the electric movement. They’re planning to release their first all-electric car, the Taycan, later this year, although a final production model has yet to be seen. Zellmer also says they’re planning on making their best-selling vehicle, the Macan, all-electric in the next few years.
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However, to be clear, Porsche plans to continue building gas-powered engines and hybrids as well as EVs in the next decade, so don’t be pressured to make the switch just yet. In addition, Porsche recently revealed their 718 Cayman GT4 and their 718 Spyder, both of which contain naturally-aspired flat-six engines.
So even though Zellmer says EVs are fun to drive, provide instant torque, and have a lower center of gravity to reinforce a “sporty feeling”, he’s clearly still interested in appeasing buyers who want naturally-aspirated engines—but who knows what the future holds?
Source: Left Lane News and USA Today