To the Porsche traditionalists who are worrying over Porsche's future operations after VW's full acquisition, we report some good news and some other news that you're just going to have to deal with. Automotive News reports that Porsche is currently weighing a number of future products down the pipeline.
First, the latest Porsche Boxster release will be followed by the new Cayman hardtop variant headed for the Los Angeles auto show in November.
Next, Porsche's exciting halo, the 918 Spyder, is due for a September 2013 release. According to Porsche, this advanced supercar will combine plug-in hybrid technology with a mighty 4.6 liter V8 engine. Power output from its engine and twin electric motors is expected to reach a stratospheric 770 hp. What's more, the hybrid system will also allow the 918 to deliver the best mpg rating in its class.
Porsche has been mulling over an affordable sports car as well. Internally known as Project 551, a small roadster was envisioned for 2014. However, Porsche CEO Matthias Mueller admitted that the current global economy has caused the Stuttgart company to believe, "It may take another generation of customers before a small roadster fits in with Porsche."
Finally, a company source has revealed to Automobilwoche, a German sibling publication of Automotive News Europe, that Porsche is heavily considering a project internally known as Project 960. According to the source, the 960 will be a powerful, 600 hp mid-engine V8 coupe to take Ferrari head-on. Certainly the least likely product of all, it doesn't hurt to be a little optimistic.
While Porsche is a sports car company at its core, executives at Porsche and Volkswagen believe that a diversified portfolio is necessary for Porsche profitability. While this sentiment is not shared among the enthusiasts loyal to the old Porsche, it took the Cayenne SUV for Porsche to avoid a fiscal crisis.
To slot below the Porsche Cayenne SUV and compete against the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLK, Porsche is developing the new Macan compact crossover. Expect the new Macan to start production in 2014
Finally, Porsche is heavily considering a second luxury sedan that will slot under the Panamera. According to Automobilwoche, the Porsche sedan, dubbed the 'Pajun', will rival the BMW 5-Series.
Much of Porsche's portfolio expansion ties with its 'Strategy 2018' plan. By year 2018, Porsche aims to sell 200,000 cars a year. Last year, Porsche has sold 117,000 vehicles, an 18 percent increase over 2010 figures.
