Aston Martin Mulls All-Electric Rapide
Would an Aston Martin be an Aston Martin without the signature engine growl?
Speaking to The Wall Street Journal, the British automaker’s CEO Andy Palmer confirmed that Aston Martin is looking into an all-electric Rapide offering. Earlier this year at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, the company unveiled the DBX electric crossover concept and has previously campaigned a hydrogen-powered Rapide at the Nürburgring 24 Hours race. The project appears to involve a partner that could come from Silicon Valley, but Palmer was quick to say that it isn’t Tesla.
SEE ALSO: 2015 Aston Martin Rapide S Review
The new CEO formerly held senior positions at the Renault Nissan alliance, so Palmer has extensive knowledge with developing electrified vehicles. Combined with the fact that Aston Martin recently received funding, it’s an expected move as more luxury automakers turn to electrification not just for performance but to enhance fuel economy. Currently, the Aston Martin Rapide S is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 engine with 550 hp paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The report also revealed that Palmer has confirmed a new crossover and large luxury sedan is also in the works as Aston Martin looks to compete with Rolls-Royce in the uber-luxury segment.
[Source: The Wall Street Journal]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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