Porsche Cayenne EV Prototype Sets Record at Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb – A New Era for Electric SUVs

In a bold and unprecedented move, Porsche has taken the wraps off its first all-electric Cayenne, not with a flashy showroom debut, but by shattering records at the legendary Shelsley Walsh hill climb in the UK. This electrifying performance sets a powerful tone for what could be the most capable electric SUV ever built.

Even before its official unveiling, a camouflaged yet production-ready Porsche Cayenne EV was put to the ultimate test. With Porsche Formula E development driver Gabriela Jílková behind the wheel, the Cayenne EV charged up the 914-meter hill climb in just 31.28 seconds, breaking the previous SUV record by more than four seconds. And it did so on standard summer road tires—no racing slicks here.

Incredibly, the electric SUV launched off the line and covered the first 55 meters in just 1.94 seconds—a feat usually seen from single-seat race cars. This showcases the incredible acceleration and grip offered by Porsche’s cutting-edge Porsche Active Ride suspension system, which also features on the Taycan and new Panamera.

Meanwhile, former Top Gear host Richard Hammond tested the Cayenne EV’s real-world muscle by towing a vintage Lagonda on a trailer weighing a combined 1,814 kg. The electric Cayenne handled the load "effortlessly," and Porsche has confirmed a towing capacity of up to 3,500 kg, matching that of its gasoline-powered sibling.

While Porsche is still keeping the full specs under wraps, it has revealed that the Cayenne Electric will be the most powerful Cayenne ever, surpassing the 729-hp Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid. Built on an enhanced 800-volt Premium Platform Electric (PPE)—also used for the Macan EV—the upcoming SUV is expected to deliver performance that rivals sports cars.

The Cayenne EV prototype will next appear at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed, but the final production model’s design and launch date remain tightly guarded secrets. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2026, likely badged as a 2027 model year in the United States. Importantly, it won't replace the current Cayenne lineup; Porsche will sell the electric, hybrid, and combustion-engine models side by side.

With record-breaking performance, strong utility, and unmistakable Porsche DNA, the Cayenne EV is shaping up to be a game-changer in the electric SUV market.