Aston Martin has confirmed production of its first all-electric model, due to hit the roads in 2019 in a limited build run of 155 cars.
Famous for its quintessentially British sports cars favoured by 007, Aston Martin has confirmed a high-tech all-electric four-seater that goes 200 miles on a single charge will launch in 2019.
An Aston Martin spokesman said: ‘Less than two years after being unveiled as a concept, Aston Martin is confirming that the all-electric RapidE will enter production in 2019.’
‘RapidE is Aston Martin’s first all-electric model. As such it spearheads development of the brand’s low- and zero-emission vehicle strategy.’
This strategy is a critical element of Aston Martin president and chief executive officer Dr Andy Palmer’s ‘Second Century Plan’ to drive the UK supercar maker back to profitability and challenge the dominance of American brand Tesla in the premium electric car market.
Aston’s RapidE will feature full-on sportscar looks and four doors, pitting it against Tesla’s Model S. Performance-wise it will be compared to the Model S P100D, for which Tesla quotes a 0 to 60mph time of 2.5 seconds, top speed of 155mph, and range of 381 miles.
Palmer added: “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.”
