The Stuttgart-based marque, Porsche, is gearing up to launch the all-electric version of its iconic Cayenne SUV. In the lead-up to its debut, a camouflaged, near-production prototype was recently showcased at the legendary Shelsley Walsh hill climb in England, as part of a film production.
During the event, Porsche offered a glimpse into the Cayenne Electric’s performance. Behind the wheel was Gabriela Jílková, simulator and development driver for the TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team, who expertly piloted the prototype up the historic Asphalt course.
Jílková completed the hill climb in a record-breaking 31.28 seconds with the Cayenne EV prototype. According to Porsche, this performance was made possible by the innovative Porsche Active Ride system featured in the vehicle. The advanced active chassis keeps the body level at all times by maintaining optimal wheel load distribution and ensuring a consistent connection to the road.
The Cayenne Electric’s acceleration was also on display, with the SUV taking just 1.94 seconds to reach the first sector of the course. In a separate demonstration of its versatility, British TV presenter Richard Hammond used the prototype to tow a vintage car—over a century old and weighing more than two tonnes—from his workshop in Hereford to his garage.
Despite the total weight, including the trailer, approaching three tonnes, the Cayenne Electric handled the task with ease. Additionally, the automaker said in a statement that Porsche has engineered the Cayenne Electric with advanced thermal management for its high-voltage system, ensuring it meets the demanding criteria to become one of the first battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
Furthermore, Porsche is also planning to display the camouflaged prototype Cayenne at the Goodwood Festival of Speed from 10 to 13 July 2025. On the other hand, Vice President of the Product Line Cayenne, Michael Schätzle, said that there will be hybrid models from the automaker in the next decade.
