Spy photographers have captured a Porsche 718 Boxster prototype running at the Nürburgring with almost no camouflage — a clear signal that the electric 718 is in late-stage testing and closer to production than it has looked in years. The images show a low, open‑top sports car wearing only small headlight covers and a painted rear wrap that mimics taillights, exposing most bodywork and aero details.
What the spy shots show
The September 11, 2026 photos published by Car and Driver show the prototype’s four‑point DRL signature, a centre-mounted charge door at the rear and active front cooling slats similar to those on recent 911 derivatives — details that point to a near‑production specification rather than an early mule. Photographers on the Nordschleife recorded the car on high‑speed laps, suggesting Porsche is validating chassis, aerodynamics and thermal management under real track stress.
Porsche’s development programme has faced delays and speculation about cancellation in the past two years, but CEO Michael Leiters explicitly confirmed the electric 718 project remains alive. Leiters told Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung that “With the electric 718, we came to the conclusion that we will build the model — because it is the best solution economically and will be a fantastic car.” That interview was reported widely in early August 2026.
Timing and technical clues
Multiple outlet summaries and spy‑photo writeups place the 718 EV’s development window toward a 2027 production and delivery timeframe, with late‑2027 customer deliveries commonly cited as the target in recent coverage. The near‑naked test cars seen at the Nürburgring strengthen the case that Porsche is moving from prototype validation to final calibration.
Public images and reporting indicate the 718’s EV architecture will follow Porsche’s PPE/800‑volt strategy used elsewhere in the Volkswagen Group for high‑performance models — although Porsche has not released official powertrain or range figures for the 718 EV. Observers note the absence of large side intakes and the more conservative silhouette, suggesting Porsche is prioritising efficiency and handling balance over extreme aero theatrics.
What this means for the market
For German and Austrian buyers, dealers and workshops the return of the 718 in electric form matters for several reasons. First, the 718 historically attracts younger buyers into Porsche showrooms — a replenishing effect that matters for customer lifetime value and used‑car pipelines. Second, near‑production prototypes on German test tracks signal dealer and aftersales teams should start preparing for electrified servicing demands (high‑voltage diagnostics, battery handling and PPE‑platform familiarity). Finally, a production 718 EV arriving in 2027 would add a desirable two‑seater sports EV to a market where premium electric SUVs and saloons currently dominate sales; that mix could shift showroom traffic and used‑car values in DE and AT.
At this stage Porsche has not published official prices, final specs or a reveal date — the spy shots and the CEO’s August confirmation are the clearest, verifiable signals so far that the electric Boxster exists and is being readied for customers. Expect an official Porsche announcement to supply concrete figures and launch timing; until then the Nürburgring images are the strongest evidence available.
Porsche electric models on WorldTrader24 →
Sources: Car and Driver, Motor1, SEMA
