Codenamed K1 (see right), it’s scheduled for production at Porsche’s Leipzig factory in Germany.
That’s also the site that Porsche sources tip to receive the contract to produce the Panamera EV. The upmarket electric liftback is set to offer the choice of either a single or dual-motor drivetrain.
It will also gain a further-developed 800V battery with what has been described to Autocar as more energy-efficient cell technology and a higher-silicon-content anode than that used by Porsche today.
“We’re targeting higher-margin segments in particular and aim to tap into new sales opportunities in this way,” said Porsche CEO Oliver Blume on the decision to build on the success of the Taycan with an electric version of the larger Panamera.
The two new electric Porsche models will share key structural, drivetrain and chassis components as well as a newly developed electrical architecture that’s designed to support level-three autonomous driving functionality, 5G-enabled digital features and an operating system developed in partnership with the Cariad software division of Porsche’s parent company, the Volkswagen Group.
The electric Panamera will be sold alongside a facelifted version of the existing second-generation model, which will be launched in 2023. It’s planned to be in production until 2030 on an extended model cycle, according to Porsche sources, providing customers with the choice of traditional ICE, plug-in hybrid or electric power, depending on the market and regulatory framework.
The new zero-emissions Panamera is set to receive similar styling to its ICE and PHEV siblings. This approach mirrors that of the Macan and Cayenne, which are set to go electric in 2024 and 2025 respectively.
“There will be some unique design elements within the front and rear ends,” said a highly placed Porsche source. “However, the core Panamera design will be the same for both.” At this early stage, it’s unclear whether Porsche plans to mirror the strategy of the existing Panamera and Taycan by offeringtwo distinct body styles – liftback and estate – for its latest electric model.