Talking to Automotive News at the Pebble Beach Concours D’elegance 2015, the top official revealed that the pure electric supercar would see the light of day in about two years from now. Without going into specifics, Palmer hinted at an 800hp output (597kW), with all-wheel drive and a range of about 320km. He also confirmed an electric version of the upcoming DBX crossover by 2020.
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In addition, the electric Rapide would create a new “legacy” for Aston, Palmer said – one which might channel part of Tesla’s meteoric rise into the ultra premium segment.
The electric version of the Rapide will be an all-around sports vehicle, and Palmer expect it to be capable of “putting in a few good laps at the track, not just quick sprints”, says a report from Fox News. Reading in between the lines, the statement also indicates that Aston will stick to the V12 engine in the foreseeable future.
So what would this new generation of electric Aston Martin cars be like?
In comparison to Andy Palmer’s goals for the next Rapide, which is around two years away from market, the already available dual-motor Tesla Model S P85D boasts 193kW/375kW (front/rear) power figures and a claimed 491km driving range. “But I think it’s hard, though not impossible, for them as a relatively new brand to keep pushing up and go into that super premier area”.
Speaking on price, Martin said the Rapide would cost between $200,000 and $250,000 (£125,000 and £160,000).
Aston Martin’s DBX concept would be the company’s first EV coupe in 2019.
“We don’t do Ludicrous because Ludicrous speed is stupid”, chided Palmer.
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Palmer said the Rapide will use batteries from an “established supplier” such as LG Chem or Samsung, but not Panasonic, which is Tesla’s battery supplier and owner of a small stake in the American carmaker.
