While the primary focus for extending ICE production has been the Cayenne, sources within Porsche suggest that a new ICE Macan is being reconsidered as part of a “range of product scenarios”.
“The reception to the new Macan [Electric] has been positive, but we are yet to see its long-term performance, given uncertain market conditions,” said a senior Porsche insider.
“The downturn in Taycan sales highlights new market dynamics. We cannot rely solely on traditional assumptions about consumer behaviour.”
The ICE Macan has been a hugely important product for Porsche, accounting for some 500,000 sales over its 10-year lifetime. It was also a big seller in China, a market in which Porsche’s sales dropped by almost 30% in 2024.
If Porsche does decide to reintroduce a new ICE Macan, it would mirror the approach taken by fellow Volkswagen Group brand Audi and be twinned with the Premium Platform Combustion-based third-generation Q5, which was launched alongside the new Q6 E-tron late last year Despite the uncertain market conditions globally, Porsche’s profit margin remains at a high level, hitting 14.1% during the first three quarters of 2024, with an operating profit of £3.35 billion from revenues of £23.7bn
The decision to re-evaluate its future line-up aligns with market trends in China, the world’s largest car market and EV market, where many car makers are introducing plug in hybrid or range-extender alternatives alongside EVs to cater to a broader customer base.
Porsche’s electrification plans continue to face significant challenges. Along with Taycan production being heavily cut, the electric 718 Boxster and Cayman sports cars, initially scheduled for 2025, face delays due to supply-chain issues with battery supplier Northvolt, which recently filed for bankruptcy.
Porsche declined to comment on Autocar’s report.
