Aston Martin has revealed a fully electric concept for its Rapide S four door saloon.
The new concept electric Aston Martin vehicle – the RapidE – has been developed in collaboration with Williams Advanced Engineering, the team behind the F1 team.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPHWfahHRi8
The RapidE was on display as part of the Government’s GREAT Britain campaign, designed to increase investment and business in Britain.
CEO of Aston Martin, Dr Andy Palmer commented: “We see luxury electric vehicles as an intrinsic part of our future product portfolio and welcome ChinaEquity into the next phase of study for the project development.
“The exciting RapidE concept tangibly demonstrates the capability and ambition of Aston Martin towards developing low- and zero-emission sports cars.”
The launch event took place at Lancaster House where Chinese investment group, ChinaEquity, announced an agreement with Aston Martin to explore the development of the RapidE for production.
It has been suggested that if the development goes well, then a full production version of the electric Aston Martin could be brought to market in two years.
The electric car would be produced in Aston Martin’s global HQ in Gaydon, Warwickshire.
Chairman of ChinaEquity, Chaoyong Wang said: “We are delighted that Aston Martin not only provides a high performance driving experience to customers, but also show’s their social responsibility by showcasing a new generation of electric car with zero emissions.
“We are excited to participate in the development of the RapidE and to make a contribution to Sino-British clean energy and green environmental strategy. We feel confident that there are significant opportunities for electric cars in China and the world.”
Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Oliver Letwin MP, who has supported the development of the project, added: “Aston Martin is an iconic British brand, and I welcome their agreement today with ChinaEquity.
“It is a great example of British and Chinese businesses working together to develop links and bring benefits to the UK economy. It also demonstrates how a collaboration between the UK and China can develop the innovative low emission solutions needed to tackle the pressing global issue of air quality.”
