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.
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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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