The OPHELIOS second-generation thermal imager for the commander was created as cost saving measure, as the new European second-generation thermal imaging modules (developed during the TRIGAT project that included Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the UK) weren't available in time for production and would have very expensive during the early 1990s. The plan was to later replace OPHELIOS's thermal imaging module and the WBG-X completely with a new design utilizing the TRIGAT's thermal imaging module (that was introduced with the UHT Tiger in German service and also used on various other weapon systems such as the other Tiger variants,  the Leclerc, the Warrior IFV, the Scimitar scout vehicle and the T-90A as part of different thermal imagers), but upgrade plans came to an halt when the KWS III was canceled.

According to an article published on the website of Europäische Sicherheit und Technik, the German Army is cooperating with the Australian military on the development of the Heavy Weapons Carrier Infantry (formerly MaKaBo) variant of the Boxer in order to save money and time spent on development - this suggests that it will be based on Australian experiences with the Boxer CRV evaluation for the LAND 400 phase 2 program. Series production is planned for 2024.
There are no plans for dismounts, but MELLS (Spike-LR) will be integrated as additional armament to the required 30 x 173 mm gun. Additionally a RWS will be fitted to the vehicle, which is controlled  by the commander.
The JFST (heavy) variant for the German Army is planned to enter service by 2023. An improved command vehicle variant integrated into the DLB-O/MoToKa project is currently being projected.
Current development/improvment programs of the German Army's Boxer focus on improved optics, other sensors and auxiliary power systems. Digital/software-defined radios, a new BMS and integration of the Wirkmittel 90 (might just be better storage racks, but maybe they'll add the option to fit the Wirkmittel 90 to the RWS) are also topics. Evaluation of possible options to increase protection against handheld anti-tank weapons and ATGMs are also ongoing.
Talks have been started to potentially develop a mortar variant of the Boxer in cooperation with the UK.

The development of the E -technology started 2002 as a private initiative of KMW to cover the expected threat of PG's fired from RPG-7. The design covered turret and chassis with add-on armour modules adapted to Leopard 2.
This technology was proved by German Army and sold by KMW to the Canadian Army for their Leopard 2 A4M CAN. A few vehicles were sent in 2010 to Afghanistan and performed pretty well. This technology can also be attached to Leopard 2 A7V as the attachment points have been foreseen at this MBT.