Electric Cars

Porsche, renowned for its luxury vehicles, has significantly broadened its revenue streams by investing heavily in its customization program, Sonderwunsch (special request). Established in 1978, this division initially focused on new vehicles but has since expanded to include both current and vintage models across three distinct service tiers: factory commission, factory re-commission, and factory one-offs. This strategic expansion underscores Porsche's commitment to personalized automotive experiences and the enduring value of its classic cars.

The factory commission service caters to new vehicles, offering bespoke color and trim selections, a practice that predates the official 1978 establishment of the division (later rebranded as Porsche Exclusive in 1986). Porsche has a long history of fulfilling unique customer requests, dating back to the 356 era, exemplified by an extraordinary one-off car adorned with fur. This legacy of customization highlights Porsche's dedication to meeting the individual preferences of its clientele, making each vehicle a unique work of art.

A notable example of the factory re-commission service is the meticulous restoration of a 2009 Cayenne GTS. This marks a significant milestone as it's the first time Porsche has applied its comprehensive restoration program to an original SUV model. The 16-year-old luxury vehicle, with approximately 50,000 miles, has undergone extensive mechanical and cosmetic rejuvenation, demonstrating the division's capability to breathe new life into classic models and preserve their heritage.

The owner of this specific E1-generation Cayenne, Phillip Sarofim, chose a unique Blackolive paint-to-sample finish, complemented by matte black accents. His vision for the high-end SUV was to evoke a 1970s aesthetic, leading to additional requests such as the retrofitting of a towbar and the installation of all-terrain tires. These modifications not only enhance the vehicle's appearance but also its functionality, honoring the original Cayenne's reputation for off-road prowess, which included a low-range transfer case and a locking rear differential.

Inside, the Cayenne GTS features a completely revitalized interior. The cabin now boasts English Green leather upholstery, accented with a distinctive black/olive Pasha pattern that extends even to the glovebox. Further adding to the bespoke feel are freshly applied light-brushed aluminum accents on the door cards, creating a sophisticated and unique atmosphere within the vehicle.

A particularly remarkable aspect of this restored Cayenne GTS is its rare six-speed manual gearbox. Such a feature is highly uncommon in contemporary Porsche SUVs, with the second-generation Cayenne (E2) offering a manual option only for its base model. The combination of this manual transmission with the vehicle's low mileage and the comprehensive Sonderwunsch treatment positions this GTS as one of the most coveted Cayennes available, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a blend of classic driving engagement and modern luxury.

While Sonderwunsch programs have historically focused on sports cars like the 911, this Cayenne restoration signifies a refreshing expansion of the division's scope. The vehicle made its public debut at the fifth Icons of Porsche festival in the Dubai Design District, where it shared the spotlight with another custom creation, a two-tone Panamera, also personalized through the Sonderwunsch program. This event underscored Porsche's versatility in customization and its ability to cater to a diverse range of models and owner preferences.

This factory-restored 2009 Cayenne GTS embodies Porsche's dedication to preserving its automotive legacy while pushing the boundaries of customization. Through its specialized Sonderwunsch division, the company offers owners the opportunity to revitalize their beloved vehicles with a unique blend of historical reverence and personalized modern enhancements, ensuring that these iconic machines continue to captivate and perform for years to come.

In a strategic move to navigate the dynamic Chinese automotive landscape, Audi's dedicated China-only brand, AUDI, has officially introduced its second groundbreaking model: an all-electric SUV concept. This eagerly anticipated reveal took place at the prestigious Auto Guangzhou 2025, marking a significant milestone for the brand's expansion beyond its initial E5 Sportback offering. Designed with the discerning Chinese consumer in mind, this new SUV concept promises a unique blend of cutting-edge technology, spacious comfort, and sustainable performance, poised to challenge the dominance of local electric vehicle manufacturers.

The Grand Unveiling of AUDI's Electric SUV at Auto Guangzhou 2025

The automotive world witnessed a pivotal moment at Auto Guangzhou 2025 with the debut of AUDI's latest electric SUV concept. This reveal underscores Audi's deep commitment to the Chinese market, a region where its traditional luxury brands have faced increasing competition from innovative domestic players. The new AUDI brand, a collaboration with SAIC, aims to leverage local expertise and cater directly to the preferences of Chinese buyers. Unlike its global Audi counterparts, this brand deliberately eschews the iconic Four Rings logo, adopting a bold, all-caps 'AUDI' emblem to signify its distinct identity.

Scheduled for production in the upcoming year, the E SUV concept is a testament to the brand's rapid development. Measuring an imposing 199 inches (5057 millimeters) in length and 80.4 inches (2042 mm) in width, with a generous wheelbase of 120.4 inches (3060 mm), it is specifically engineered to offer unparalleled rear legroom—a crucial selling point in China. Its elevated stance, at 70.3 inches (1786 mm) in height, further accentuates its SUV credentials. Visually, the E SUV shares stylistic elements with the previously launched E5 Sportback, featuring sleek side cameras, roof-mounted LiDAR, flush door handles, and distinctive C-shaped lighting, all contributing to a cohesive brand aesthetic. The vehicle rides on the Advanced Digitized Platform (ADP), co-developed with SAIC, which also underpins the E5 Sportback, ensuring a foundation of advanced technology and performance.

Beyond its striking exterior, the electric SUV boasts an impressive 109-kWh battery, projected to deliver an extensive range of over 435 miles (700 kilometers) under China's CLTC cycle. Fast charging capabilities allow for approximately 199 miles (320 kilometers) of range with just a 10-minute charge. Powering this luxurious electric vehicle is a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive 'Quattro' system, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in a swift five seconds. While its exact weight has yet to be disclosed, it is anticipated to be a substantial vehicle, building upon the E5 Sportback's considerable weight of 5,165 pounds (2,343 kilograms). Pricing details for the production model, slated for a 2026 launch, are still under wraps, but it is expected to be positioned above the E5 Sportback, which currently ranges from $33,000 to $45,000.

The emergence of AUDI's E SUV concept at Auto Guangzhou 2025 signals a fascinating shift in the global automotive landscape. As traditional powerhouses like Audi adapt to localized market demands, particularly in China, they are forced to innovate beyond their conventional branding and product strategies. This bold venture into a new, China-specific electric brand demonstrates a willingness to embrace change and compete directly with agile, tech-forward domestic manufacturers. The success of the AUDI brand and its new E SUV will undoubtedly offer valuable insights into the future of automotive partnerships and market segmentation, shaping how established players navigate the rapidly evolving electric vehicle sector in key global markets.