Aston Martin has confirmed that the all-electric RapidE will enter production in 2019, less than four years after unveiling it as a concept.
Initially set for a limited production run of just 155 cars, RapidE is Aston Martin’s first all-electric model. As such, it forms the vanguard of Aston Martin’s low- and zero-emission vehicle strategy, laid out by its president and CEO, Dr Andy Palmer.
RapidE sees a continuation of the luxury brand’s collaboration with Williams Advanced Engineering, who worked on the original concept.
Reportedly based on the forthcoming Rapide AMR concept, RapidE will be a four-door sports car with a similar aesthetic styling to the Rapide S. An all-electric powertrain will replace the six-litre V12 engine, with further performance specifications expected to be released over the coming months.
Aston Martin President and CEO, Dr Andy Palmer, explained: “RapidE represents a sustainable future in which Aston Martin’s values of seductive style and supreme performance don’t merely co-exist alongside a new zero-emission powertrain, but are enhanced by it.
“The internal combustion engine has been at the heart of Aston Martin for more than a century, and will continue to be for years to come. RapidE will showcase Aston Martin’s vision, desire and capability to successfully embrace radical change, delivering a new breed of car that stays true to our ethos and delights our customers.”
Paul McNamara, technical director at Williams Advanced Engineering, added: “Williams Advanced Engineering has always endeavoured to work collaboratively with its customers to meet their sustainability challenges and find energy efficient solutions. For today’s car manufacturers, this is particularly important as legislation demands more energy efficient vehicles.
“This project with Aston Martin will draw on the extensive battery and EV experience we have accumulated and we are extremely pleased to be supporting this prestigious British company with their future electrification strategy.”
