Since its launch in late 2024, the all-electric Porsche 718 (encompassing both the Cayman and Boxster variants) has redefined what enthusiasts expect from a battery-powered vehicle. Now that we are midway through 2026, the first wave of short-term lease returns and early adoptions are hitting the secondary market.
If you are looking for a used Porsche 718 EV, you are entering a market where German precision meets cutting-edge 800V architecture. However, buying a used electric sports car requires a different checklist than the petrol flat-fours and sixes of yesteryear. This guide covers everything you need to know about navigating the 2026 UK market for the electric 718.
The 2026 Landscape: Why Buy a Used 718 EV Now?
In 2026, the transition to electrification in the UK has accelerated, spurred by expanding ULEZ-style zones in cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Bristol. The Porsche 718 EV stands alone in a niche with very few direct competitors, offering a mid-mounted battery pack that mimics the balance of its internal combustion engine (ICE) predecessors.
By choosing a two-year-old model, buyers are sidestepping the initial steep depreciation curve typical of high-end EVs. On CarsLink.ai, we are seeing a steady increase in listings as original PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) agreements move toward their end-of-term options.
Key Specifications and Performance
When browsing listings, you’ll likely encounter the standard '718 Electric' and the '718 S Electric'. Both utilise a bespoke EV platform rather than a converted petrol chassis.
| Feature | 718 Electric (Base) | 718 S Electric |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Size (Net) | 82 kWh | 95 kWh |
| WLTP Range | Up to 290 miles | Up to 340 miles |
| 0-62 mph | 4.1 Seconds | 3.4 Seconds |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive (Dual Motor) |
| Charging Speed | 270 kW DC | 270 kW DC |
Performance Reality in the UK
While the 0-62 mph times are impressive, the real selling point is the active cooling system for the battery. Even on a used 2025 model, the thermal management ensures that repeat sprints don’t throttle performance—a common issue in earlier performance EVs.
What to Look for When Buying Used
1. Battery Health Report (State of Health)
In 2026, any reputable dealer should provide a State of Health (SoH) certificate for the traction battery. Porsche’s warranty typically covers the battery for 8 years or 100,000 miles, guaranteeing at least 70% capacity. Look for cars that have been primarily slow-charged (AC) rather than exclusively rapid-charged (DC), as this preserves cell longevity.
2. Software Updates and Infotainment
The 718 EV introduced a new generation of Porsche Communication Management (PCM). Ensure the vehicle has received all over-the-air (OTA) updates. Early 2025 models had minor glitches with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration which have since been patched.
3. Tyre Wear
Electric sports cars are heavy. Despite Porsche’s weight-saving measures, the instant torque of the 718 EV can punish the rear tyres. Check the tread depth across the entire width of the tyre; uneven wear can indicate alignment issues or a particularly "enthusiastic" previous owner.
4. V5C and Service History
Unlike petrol Porsches, there are no oil changes, but the brake fluid, cabin filters, and coolant systems for the electronics still require professional attention. Check the digital service record to ensure the car hasn't missed its two-year inspection.
Ownership Costs in 2026
Road Tax (VED)
Note that from April 2025, electric vehicles are no longer exempt from Vehicle Excise Duty (VED). As the 718 EV has a list price well over £40,000, you will be liable for the 'Expensive Car Supplement'. For 2026, expect to pay the standard rate plus the supplement for the first five years of the car's life.
Charging at Home vs Public
With a used 718 EV, you’ll want a dedicated 7kW or 11kW home wallbox. Charging from 10% to 80% at home will take roughly 9-11 hours, perfect for an overnight top-up. On the road, Porsche’s 800V tech remains a game-changer, allowing you to add 150 miles of range in just 15 minutes at a 350kW Ionity or Porsche Charging Lounge station.
Financing Your Used 718: PCP vs HP
In the 2026 used market, Electric Boxster PCP deals are becoming increasingly popular. Because Porsche residuals (the predicted future value) remain strong compared to other EV brands, monthly payments on a PCP can be surprisingly competitive.
- PCP (Personal Contract Purchase): Best if you want to trade the car in after 3 years and avoid being tied to the battery's long-term depreciation.
- HP (Hire Purchase): Better if you intend to keep the car for a decade and want to eventually own the asset outright.
- PCH (Personal Contract Hire): Increasingly available for used cars via specialist brokers, offering a fixed monthly cost without ownership worries.
The Verdict: Is it a "Real" Porsche?
The most common question we hear at CarsLink.ai is whether the electric 718 retains the soul of the petrol versions. While you lose the bark of the exhaust, you gain a lower centre of gravity and instantaneous throttle response that no ICE engine can match. The "frunk" and rear boot remain surprisingly practical, making this one of the few EVs that works as a genuine weekend tourer.
Buying a used 718 EV in 2026 is a savvy move. You benefit from a car that is still under manufacturer warranty, features modern tech that won't feel dated for years, and offers a driving experience that marks the pinnacle of the electric sports car era.
Ready to find your next drive? Browse the latest verified listings for the electric Porsche 718 and other premium EVs on CarsLink.ai. Whether you are looking for a track-ready Cayman or a sun-seeking Boxster, our platform connects you with the best UK dealers and private sellers.
[Search Used Porsche 718 EV Models on CarsLink.ai today.]