Lamborghini will show its first full-electric model – a radically styled 2+2 crossover – adding a fourth model line to its range, and will swiftly follow it up with an electric-only, second-generation Urus SUV, CEO Stephan Winkelmann revealed to our sister magazine, Autocar UK.
- New EVs will help Lamborghini reduce its fleet-average CO2 levels
- Will aid petrol-powered sportscars to continue
- Next-gen Urus to be full-electric only
Lamborghini’s EV plans: petrol-powered sportscars to continue
Intriguingly, the launch of the electric duo also raises the possibility of the firm's sportscars – currently comprising the Lamborghini Huracan and Lamborghini Aventador – keeping petrol power as part of a plug-in hybrid system for at least two more generations, the first launching next year and the second at the turn of the decade. This means they could be on sale until at least 2035, when most regions are expected to legislate full electrification for new cars.
The continuation of the sportscars as combustion-engine models is a potential consequence of the new EVs dramatically reducing Lamborghini’s fleet-average CO2 emissions. Moreover, the fact it remains a relatively low-volume manufacturer, despite setting a new production record of 8,405 last year, means it could be subject to different emissions regulations to mainstream makers.
Lamborghini’s EV plans: first model to be inspired from Estoque
The new 2+2 full electric GT crossover is expected to draw inspiration from the Lamborghini Estoque concept, which was revealed in 2008 but never made production. Lamborghini insiders suggested at the time that there was significant customer support for the car, but the cost of its development versus projected sales meant it didn’t make it from the Volkswagen Group’s prioritisation list to production. Funds were instead focused on a rapid development of its SUV offerings – including the ultra-successful Urus, of which 5,021 examples were sold last year globally. Ahead of a full model change, Lamborghini will introduce an Urus facelift with hybrid powertrain.
However, instead of being designed around a four-door saloon silhouette, the EV is expected to sit higher, as a result of its floor-mounted battery pack, and to have significantly more dramatic styling to highlight that its powertrain differentiates it from other Lamborghinis.
The 2+2 might also be a two-door version, given that it is likely to use the same Bentley/Audi-developed Artemis platform that will underpin Bentley’s new family of future EVs. These include its mooted new range-topper, which is loosely described as a successor to the Bentley Mulsanne limousine.
Lamborghini’s EV strategy to launch the 2+2 first and then the new Lamborghini Urus was a result of family-oriented customers being more open to going electric.
Lamborghini in India: what’s new?
Lamborghini currently sells the Huracan, Aventador and the Urus in India. The company recently delivered three limited edition Aventador Ultimae units here.
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Lamborghini Aventador Ultimae review