Aston Martin, the renowned luxury car manufacturer, has announced its plans to transition to electrified vehicles by the end of the decade. Currently, Aston Martin does not offer any electrified models, but they aim to change that within the next few years. By 2030, every Aston Martin vehicle will either be a plug-in hybrid or fully electric.
The first step in this electrification plan is the introduction of a plug-in hybrid model. The Aston Martin Valhalla, a highly anticipated supercar, is set to be the company’s first plug-in hybrid offering. Expected to arrive in 2024, the Valhalla will feature a mid-mounted V-8 engine that powers the rear wheels. Additionally, it is likely to incorporate one or two electric motors that drive the front wheels, creating a powerful and efficient hybrid drivetrain.
Following the launch of the Valhalla, Aston Martin has plans to release four electric vehicles over the next four years. These EVs are entirely new models and not merely redesigned versions of existing Aston Martin cars. According to Lawrence Stroll, Chairman of Aston Martin, the four EVs will be based on a common platform that can be adapted to create various vehicle types, including hypercars, sports cars, grand tourers, and SUVs. This platform’s flexibility and versatility allow Aston Martin to cater to a wide range of customer preferences and fulfill their commitment to electrification.
The first electric vehicle from Aston Martin is expected to be an SUV, deviating from previous assumptions that it would be a sports car. This SUV will combine Aston Martin’s signature design and craftsmanship with the benefits of electric power, including smooth acceleration, zero emissions, and a quiet driving experience. Other EVs in the lineup may feature up to four electric motors, further enhancing performance and efficiency.
To support their ambitious electrification goals, Aston Martin has struck a deal with U.S. EV startup Lucid. This technology sharing partnership will involve Lucid supplying Aston Martin with current and next-generation motor and battery technology for their electric vehicles. Aston Martin also plans to collaborate with Zhejiang Geely, one of its shareholders, for the supply of essential components like seats and HVAC systems. These partnerships ensure that Aston Martin can leverage cutting-edge technology and expertise to create industry-leading electric vehicles.
While Aston Martin moves towards electrification, they will also renew their current sports car lineup. The successor to the DB11, known as the DB12, has already been revealed, showcasing Aston Martin’s commitment to delivering high-performance internal combustion engine vehicles. Additionally, a new version of the Vantage, a popular Aston Martin model, is set to debut later this year. In 2024, Aston Martin enthusiasts can look forward to the Valhalla and a successor to the DBS, continuing the tradition of powerful and luxurious sports cars.
Aston Martin acknowledges that their current development budget primarily focuses on internal combustion engines, with approximately 75% allocated to these vehicles. However, the company plans to shift its focus to electric vehicles progressively. By as early as 2027, Aston Martin intends to allocate 75% of its development budget towards EVs, illustrating a clear commitment to embrace electric mobility.
In conclusion, Aston Martin is embarking on an electrification journey with the aim of offering exclusively plug-in hybrid or electric vehicles by the end of the decade. With the introduction of the Valhalla plug-in hybrid, followed by the launch of four all-new electric models, Aston Martin is making a significant commitment to sustainable transportation. By partnering with Lucid and leveraging their own expertise, Aston Martin aims to deliver electrified vehicles that continue to evoke passion, elegance, and exhilaration, while also reducing their environmental impact.
