Porsche CEO Says Initial EV Hype Almost Over

While most major carmakers have or are planning a hybrid or electric car for their model range, the idea of driving around in something without an exhaust can seem revolting to some petrol-heads. There is a huge green aura surrounding pure-electric cars, such as Nissan’s LEAF, but with overall sales falling short of expectations, you begin to wonder if EV are really viable at the moment.

Automotive News got a chance to have a long interview with Porsche CEO Matthias Mueller recently. Among the highlights of the discussion, which included talk of a 57 global sales boost by 2018, the CEO talked about his view on electric mobility.

When asked about a battery-powered sportscars, Mueller said that while some estimates say that 20 percent of all vehicles on the road will be electric by 2020, he actually believes that figure to be closer to three to five percent.

“Should it become apparent by 2020 that 20 percent of all new cars will already be electrically driven, then you can take it that Porsche will also be challenging for 20 percent of its sales with electric vehicles. But I'm betting on a total EV share closer to 3 percent to 5 percent by 2020. We are now almost over the initial hype before the business really gets started,” Mueller stated.

However the electric/internal combustion mix of hybrid engines will plays a role in the German company’s future, as Mueller said that he believes Porsche will be a player in that market. The interview also touched on subjects ranging from the the 911 to future variation on the Panamera.