Aston Martin, in collaboration with Lucid, had previously announced plans for a modular electric vehicle platform to underpin four new models, including a crossover and a hypercar, with the first electric vehicle slated for a 2025 debut. However, the British luxury automaker has now revealed a significant delay of approximately two years for these models.
In an interview with Autocar, Aston Martin’s executive chairman, Lawrence Stroll, cited a discrepancy between the hype surrounding electric vehicles and actual consumer demand, especially at Aston Martin’s price point. Stroll mentioned, “We planned to launch at the end of 2025 and were ready to do so, but it seems there is a lot more hype in EVs, politically driven or whatever, than consumer demand, particularly at an Aston Martin price point.”
While the electric vehicles are technically engineered and physically designed, Aston Martin has decided to refocus its efforts on plug-in hybrids, aligning with its previous commitment. Stroll confirmed that these hybrids will be powered by Mercedes-sourced V8 engines, with a hybridized V12 also in the pipeline.
Stroll expressed confidence in the popularity of plug-in hybrid powertrains for at least the next decade, noting that they will enable the continued production of internal combustion engine (ICE) models. He stated, “… as long as we’re allowed to make ICE cars, we’ll make them.”
This marks a strategic shift for Aston Martin, which had previously announced ambitious electrification plans. Nearly five years ago, the company showcased the “production ready” Rapide E at the 2019 Shanghai Motor Show, with plans to produce 155 units. However, the project was ultimately canceled at the last minute.
