RapidE to be the first of the breed.
Transformation, especially at this point in history, is inevitable. Even carmakers like Aston Martin, that value their traditions and adhere to them like the law, are forced forwards in the face of an ever-changing world. Which is why the brand’s boss has said that the entire Aston lineup will feature electrification come mid-2020.
Speaking to the Financial Times, Aston Martin CEO Dr. Andy Palmer said that they “will be 100% hybrid by the middle of the 2020s,” in a move that appears to be in similar mould as what we’ve heard previously by Volvo (the Swedish carmaker is aiming for a fully-electrified lineup by 2019).
However, unlike the Swedish luxury carmaker, Aston Martin doesn’t really have a history in these futuristic powertrains. It wouldn’t be foolish to think that they would lean on technological partner Daimler, with whom Aston Martin has very recently sourced AMG-built 4.0-litre biturbo V8s. But the good doctor shot down this idea almost immediately.
“You need to keep core technology inside the company. That’s why we make our own V12 engine. We believe that EVs are a core technology, therefore we want do them ourselves.” — Dr. Andy Palmer, CEO, Aston Martin
The very first electrified Aston Martin is already well into development, in the form of the fully-electric RapidE (built off of the four-door Rapide) that is due in 2019, with the Aston Martin DBX SUV also due around the same time with its hybrid powertrain (which may or may not be available at launch).
Previously, Dr. Palmer has posited that one-fourth of Aston’s range will be fully-electric by 2030, and so the plans being brought to light now are very much in line with earlier comments.
However, while Volvo will seek to discontinue non-hybrid vehicle sales in the next 2-years, Aston Martin will continue to offer non-hybrid cars to its customers, with electrified powertrains being offered as an option. This is a move we commend entirely, given the ‘emotional’ aspect that these cars cater to.
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