PORSCHE SET TO CLEAN UP

Porsche has confirmed it is to drop diesel models from its range

Porsche has confirmed that it will no longer offer diesel versions of any of its models.

The German sports car and SUV manufacturer had already suspended sales of diesel vehicles in theuka mid the changes to emissions testing and the announcement means they won’t be returning.

The firm’s two SUVS – the Macan and Cayenne – along with its Panamera four-door were previously available with diesel engines sourced from sister firm Audi.

As such, it was caught up in the dieselgate scandal that engulfed the VW Group and its chief executive Oliver Blume said at the weekend the emissions scandal was in part behind the decision.

Blume said: “The diesel crisis caused us a lot of trouble. Porsche’s image has suffered.”

Only 12 per cent of Porsches sold worldwide last year were diesel and the firm has said it will now concentrate on hybrid and electric models. Almost two thirds of Panamera sales in Europe are already petrol-electric hybrids and the car maker recently unveiled its first fully electric car – the Taycan – which is due on sale next year.

Blume added that Porsche was “not demonsing diesel” but that it was not a good fit for the brand.

He said: “It is and will remain an important propulsion technology. We as a sports car manufacturer, however, for whom diesel has always played a secondary role, have come to the conclusion that we would like our future to be diesel-free.

“Petrol engines are well suited for sporty driving.”

He also reassured exiting Porsche diesel owners that the company would continue to support them throughout their ownership.

The announcement comes as a new report suggests all pet roland diesel cars must be banned by 2030 if the EU is to meet its commitment to capping CO2 emissions.