In order to fight the Tesla Model S, Aston Martin will be launching an electric version of the four-door Rapide, according to Aston Martin CEO Andy Palmer.
Following the electric Rapide, Palmer also mentioned that the DBX crossover will also be receiving the electric treatment by the end of the decade. Details of the electric Rapide are scarce for now, but Palmer says that the Rapide will have around 800 hp, all-wheel-drive and a 320 km range.
But why an electric Aston Martin Rapide? Firstly, emission-free models are crucial to balance out the emission heavy models, especially those powered by a V8 or a V12 engine. “If you want to keep making V-12 engines, then you’ve got to do something at the opposite end of the spectrum,” Palmer said.
Secondly, the electric Rapide will be positioned above its main competitor, the Tesla Model S. At the moment, the Tesla’s range-topping P90D has a maximum price of $142,000, while the electric Rapide has an estimated price of between $200,000 to $250,000.
Palmer also mentioned that the batteries powering the electric Rapide will come from either LG or Samsung, with the factory churning out hundreds of units per year. With a target debut of two years, Aston Martin already has a test mule on the streets.
Via: Autonews
