Aston Martin will introduce plug-in hybrid versions of each of its core sports car models in the future, using technology from stakeholder Mercedes-Benz. The firm's first PHEV is the Valhalla supercar that's due in 2024, but following that, from 2026 onwards, there will be electrified versions of each model in the 'core' line-up, currently comprising the Vantage, DB12 and DBS.
- Aston Martin has been using Mercedes engines, infotainment since 2016
- PHEVs will bridge the transition from ICE vehicles to BEV
- Deliveries of the DB12 will likely begin by the end of 2023
Aston Martin’s Hybrid plans
The news was confirmed as Aston Martin announced its medium-term product strategy, following the first half of 2023 in which it boosted revenues and profits.
In a statement accompanying the financial report, company chairman Lawrence Stroll announced: "Our electrification journey will start with Valhalla, our first PHEV supercar, and we plan to expand our PHEV range into our core vehicles, which will bridge the customer journey from ICE to full BEV."
Stroll later confirmed to our sister publication Autocar UK that this hybridisation strategy applies to all model lines, which will be underpinned by electrified drivetrains supplied by Mercedes, which has provided engines and infotainment systems to Aston since 2016.
Aston to use Mercedes Hybrid technology
The Mercedes-derived V8 used by the Vantage, DB12 and DBX is already used as the basis for the hybrid system in the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 E-Performance and Mercedes-AMG S63 E-Performance, and it is likely that Aston will use a variation of this set-up in its own PHEVs. Aston is already using a version of this system in the Valhalla.
In the Mercedes-AMG super-hybrids, the twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 is paired with an electric motor mounted on the rear axle for a combined output upwards of 840hp and over 1,400Nm of torque. Lithium-ion batteries are mounted in the boot – 13.1kWh in the S63 and 6.1kWh in the GT 63 – and give electric-only ranges of 34 and 13km, respectively.
We believe that Aston will no doubt use different packs for each of its models, depending on their billing. A larger unit would make sense in the more luxury-focused DBX SUV, for example, while the smaller, lighter battery might suit an electrified Vantage.
India-bound Aston Martin DB12
Aston Martin will begin deliveries of the DB11-replacing DB12 in the coming months, as the first of Aston's three heavily overhauled front-engined sports cars. The DB12, priced at Rs 4.8 crore (ex-showroom), will launch in India in October 2023 and rival the Ferrari Roma (Rs 3.76 crore, ex-showroom), and the Bentley Continental GT (Rs 3.29 crore, ex-showroom).
Replacements for the Vantage and DBS will follow within the next 15 months, Aston bosses confirmed today, and it is likely that PHEV technology will be rolled out to the line-up following that.