It’s official—Ridge Forrester is expanding his empire beyond Los Angeles. According to The Bold and the Beautiful Comings and Goings, Thorsten Kaye is stepping into Beyond the Gates, making this one of the most exciting CBS daytime crossovers of the year. Ridge’s presence guarantees high-stakes drama and, of course, unforgettable style.
Fans can expect Ridge to connect with Dani, a model-turned-agent played by Karla Mosley. Their business encounter might spark new creative ventures for Forrester Creations. Rumor has it Dani could introduce Ridge to an entirely fresh lineup of talent, setting the stage for another iconic Forrester fashion event.
A Reunion Fans Didn’t See Coming
The crossover brings together familiar faces, reviving nostalgia for longtime soap viewers. Thorsten Kaye’s Ridge and Karla Mosley’s Dani share history from their Bold & Beautiful days, where Mosley famously portrayed Maya Avant. This reunion gives fans something to look forward to—a blend of legacy and modern storytelling.
BTG/ Dani faces a meltdown!
Maya’s journey made history on daytime television, and seeing Mosley back in a CBS crossover feels like a full-circle moment. With Ridge re-entering her world, viewers are eager to see if this business partnership turns into something more personal—or reignites old creative sparks between these two driven characters
Porsche Bids Farewell to Gas-Powered 718: A Deep Dive into the Electric Horizon (2025 Market Analysis)
The automotive world is currently in a maelstrom of transformation, and few announcements have underscored this monumental shift quite like Porsche’s confirmation: the venerable gas-powered 718 Boxster and Cayman twins will cease production globally by October 2025. For an industry veteran with over a decade immersed in the high-octane world of performance vehicles, this isn’t just news; it’s a pivotal moment, signaling the definitive end of an era for one of Stuttgart’s most cherished and accessible mid-engine sports cars, and the dawn of a new, electric future for Porsche.
This isn’t merely a strategic pivot; it’s a seismic event resonating through the performance EV market, reshaping expectations for luxury electric sports cars. While European markets already saw an earlier exit for these combustion icons due to evolving cybersecurity regulations, the final global curtain call later this year for the 982-generation models marks a definitive turning point. The question isn’t if Porsche is embracing electrification, but how it plans to redefine the driving dynamics of an electric sports car that bears the hallowed 718 badge.
The Sunset of a Legend: Appreciating the Gas-Powered 718 Legacy
For nearly a decade, the fourth-generation Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman have been the torchbearers for accessible, unadulterated driving pleasure within the Porsche lineup. With their perfectly balanced mid-engine layout, razor-sharp steering, and engines that sang – whether it was the turbocharged flat-four or the glorious naturally aspirated flat-six in the GT4 and Spyder variants – these cars offered a connection to the road that few rivals could match. They weren’t just fast; they were engaging, providing an immersive experience that cemented their status as true enthusiast vehicles.
The 718 wasn’t just a car; it was an entry point, a gateway to the Porsche brand for countless enthusiasts who aspired to a purer, more focused driving machine than the 911. Its agility, combined with everyday usability, made it a darling of weekend warriors and track day regulars alike. The raw mechanical feedback, the subtle vibrations through the steering wheel, the crescendo of the exhaust note as the RPMs climbed – these were the visceral hallmarks of the mid-engine sports car that captivated hearts.
It’s ironic that despite the looming transition, 2024 saw a surprising surge in demand, with sales figures up 15%. This mini-boom, however, was fleeting. The inevitable withdrawal from key markets quickly led to a Q1 2025 sales drop of 22%. This fluctuation highlights a fascinating dichotomy: a momentary spike of consumers scrambling to grab the last of the collectible sports cars before they vanished, followed by the predictable dip as availability dwindled. This pattern is not uncommon when an iconic model approaches its end-of-life, creating a unique window for investment in classic Porsches in the making.
The Regulatory Tides and Market Imperatives: Why Now?
The decision to pull the plug on gas-powered 718s isn’t arbitrary; it’s a calculated response to a complex interplay of regulatory pressures and evolving market dynamics. While the immediate trigger for the European market’s early farewell was stringent cybersecurity norms (UNECE WP.29 regulations becoming mandatory), the broader impetus stems from global emissions targets and a societal shift towards sustainable luxury vehicles.
Governments worldwide, particularly in the EU and increasingly in the US (especially California and other ZEV states), are pushing aggressive timelines for the cessation of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle sales. Porsche, as a global brand, must navigate this intricate web of legislation. Developing engines for future Euro 7 compliance, as seen with the twin-turbo V8 in other models, is costly and complex. For a model line like the 718, which by its nature is produced in relatively smaller volumes compared to SUVs like the Cayenne, the return on investment for continued ICE development simply doesn’t justify the effort in a rapidly electrifying landscape.
This strategic redirection is also heavily influenced by the automotive industry transformation towards electrification. Consumer perception is changing; while range anxiety and charging infrastructure remain considerations, the allure of instant torque, silent operation, and lower running costs for EVs is growing. Porsche recognizes that to remain at the forefront of the performance EV market, it must embrace these changes proactively, rather than reactively. This move positions Porsche squarely in the vanguard of manufacturers defining the future of sports cars.
Porsche’s Strategic Evolution: Beyond the 718
It’s crucial to understand that Porsche’s electrification strategy, while resolute, is also nuanced and constantly adapting. The initial ambitious target of 80% EV sales by 2030, while aspirational, has been recalibrated. This isn’t a retreat, but rather a pragmatic adjustment based on market realities, supply chain challenges, and the diverse needs of a global customer base.
While the 718 goes all-electric, other key models like the Cayenne and Panamera will retain combustion engines, likely incorporating advanced hybrid powertrains, well into the 2030s. This hybrid approach demonstrates Porsche’s commitment to offering a range of powertrains, ensuring that customers have options while the charging infrastructure matures globally. The continued development of ICE for certain segments allows Porsche to manage the transition smoothly, leveraging existing technologies while investing heavily in new ones. This balanced Porsche electric roadmap reflects a deep understanding of market complexities and ensures they remain a leader in premium EV investment.
The development of new platforms, like the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) co-developed with Audi, is central to this strategy. This modular architecture allows for flexibility in battery sizes, motor configurations, and vehicle types, underpinning the next generation of Porsche EVs, including the electric Macan and, crucially, the upcoming electric 718. This platform is designed to house cutting-edge Porsche EV battery technology and electric powertrains, promising the kind of high-performance EV technology that enthusiasts expect from the brand.
Glimpse into the Electric Future: The 718 EV
The big question on every enthusiast’s mind is: What will the electric 718 be like? How can an EV truly replicate the delicate balance, the communicative steering, and the emotional connection of a mid-engine gas car? Porsche engineers are acutely aware of these expectations. With a decade of expertise in this domain, I can tell you that recreating “feel” in an EV is arguably the greatest challenge, but also where the most innovative solutions will emerge.
We know the electric 718 will leverage the aforementioned PPE platform. This means 800-volt architecture for ultra-fast charging, powerful electric motors (likely one per axle for all-wheel drive, with potential for RWD variants), and advanced battery packs integrated into the chassis to maintain a low center of gravity. Early prototypes suggest a design language that retains the classic 718 proportions but with a futuristic twist, incorporating aerodynamic enhancements and distinctive EV styling cues. Expect the next-gen Porsche Boxster EV and Porsche Cayman EV to push boundaries in terms of acceleration and handling.
The key challenge will be weight. Batteries are heavy. However, Porsche’s engineering prowess, showcased in the Taycan, suggests they will mitigate this through intelligent material choices, structural optimization, and sophisticated suspension tuning. The absence of an engine block allows for a new kind of weight distribution, potentially enabling even finer chassis balance. Torque vectoring, precise motor control, and advanced electronic stability systems will be paramount in translating instantaneous electric power into an engaging, predictable, and thrilling driving experience. While a Porsche Cayman EV release date is still somewhat fluid, expectations are high for a reveal in the coming year, with deliveries following soon after.
Investment and Collectibility: The Last ICE
For those with a keen eye on automotive investments, the end of gas-powered 718 production creates an intriguing opportunity. Limited-run icons, such as the Boxster RS Spyder and the Cayman GT4 RS, which managed to evade EU regulations due to their specific classification or small production numbers, have already carved out an irreplaceable space in many buyers’ hearts. These limited edition sports cars are almost certainly destined for collector status.
As the final examples roll off the production line in October 2025, the scarcity factor will undoubtedly drive interest in well-preserved, low-mileage examples of the Boxster and Cayman. The GT4 RS, with its screaming naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six and track-focused dynamics, represents the absolute pinnacle of the ICE 718. It is a modern classic in the making, and its value will likely appreciate significantly in the coming years. Similarly, the Boxster Spyder RS, a spiritual successor to the legendary 987 Spyder, embodies the ultimate expression of open-top, naturally aspirated purity. These are not just cars; they are tangible pieces of Porsche history, offering high-value automotive assets for discerning collectors.
Even standard S and GTS models, if well-maintained and with desirable options, could see a steady appreciation as the market romanticizes the era of pure internal combustion. Savvy enthusiasts and collectors are already looking at these final cars as future heirlooms, celebrating the unique driving experience they offer before the inevitable shift to electric.
Overcoming the Electric Hurdle: Challenges & Innovation
The transition to an all-electric 718 is not without its hurdles. The oft-cited concerns of range anxiety, the availability and speed of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and the inherent weight of batteries are significant. But perhaps the most profound challenge for a sports car manufacturer like Porsche is translating the emotional, auditory, and tactile feedback of a combustion engine into an equally compelling electric experience. The absence of engine sound, the distinct feel of a revving engine, and the precise control offered by a manual gearbox are elements deeply ingrained in the sports car ethos.
However, this challenge is also an opportunity for innovative EV solutions. Porsche has demonstrated with the Taycan that electric performance can be exhilarating. The instant, relentless torque delivery of an EV offers a new dimension of acceleration. The engineering focus will shift from maximizing horsepower within combustion constraints to optimizing power delivery, thermal management, and regenerative braking for track use. Porsche is likely exploring advanced haptic feedback systems, sophisticated synthetic sound profiles (or even embracing silence as a form of luxury), and highly customizable driving modes to tailor the experience.
Moreover, advancements in battery technology (solid-state batteries, improved energy density), motor efficiency, and thermal management will continue to alleviate weight concerns and improve range. The PPE platform, designed from the ground up for performance EVs, will allow Porsche to integrate these innovations seamlessly, ensuring that the electric 718 is not just fast, but dynamically brilliant. The ongoing evolution of sports car electrification challenges pushes manufacturers to innovate in unprecedented ways.
The New Competitive Arena: The EV Sports Car Landscape
The electric 718 will enter a rapidly evolving competitive EV sports car landscape. It won’t be alone. Tesla has hinted at a new Roadster, Lotus is deep into electrification with models like the Emira (though it has an ICE option, its future leans EV) and the Eletre SUV (signaling an electric future for the brand), and other luxury marques are undoubtedly developing their own electric performance vehicles. Porsche’s own Taycan has already proven its mettle as a highly capable luxury electric vehicle, albeit in a different segment.
The electric 718 will need to carve out its own niche. Its smaller size and likely lighter weight (relative to something like a Taycan) could position it as the purist’s electric sports car, much as its predecessor was. It will compete not just on raw speed, but on the overall driving experience: steering feel, chassis balance, braking performance, and driver engagement. Porsche’s reputation for engineering excellence and its meticulous approach to driving dynamics will be critical differentiators in this burgeoning performance EV segment.
The ability to blend high-performance with usability, coupled with the inherent sustainability credentials of an EV, will appeal to a new generation of buyers. The electric 718 will need to offer compelling range, efficient charging, and a distinct Porsche character to truly succeed in this hotly contested segment.
Conclusion: An Evolving Symphony of Speed
The decision to transition the Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman to an all-electric future by October 2025 is more than just an end; it’s a bold declaration of intent. It represents Porsche’s unwavering commitment to innovation and its clear vision for the automotive future. While we bid a bittersweet farewell to the raw, visceral symphony of the gas-powered mid-engine twins, we stand on the precipice of an equally thrilling, albeit different, era of Porsche innovation.
The electric 718 will carry a heavy mantle, tasked with upholding a legacy of driving purity and engaging performance. But given Porsche’s track record, its engineering prowess, and its strategic agility, there’s every reason to believe it will succeed, delivering an evolving driving experience that redefines what a true sports car can be in the age of electrification. This is not the end of the sports car; it is merely its most exciting evolution yet.
Join the Conversation: What are your thoughts on Porsche’s bold move to electrify the 718? Are you ready to embrace the future of electric performance, or will you be scrambling to secure one of the last gas-powered legends? Share your insights and predictions for the next chapter of Porsche’s iconic mid-engine sports car.