“Lamborghini”
Even renowned supercar brands like Lamborghini are responding to the transformative influence of electrification within the automotive industry. This is evident in the expanding array of Lamborghini electric cars poised for the future. The brand is preparing to introduce the Lanzador EV later in this decade (pictured above), complemented by a series of hybrid and plug-in models as transitional steps.
Stephan Winkelmann, the company’s CEO, recently shared insights with CAR magazine regarding the Direzione Cor Tauri – Lamborghini’s decarbonization strategy initiated in 2021. Named after the brightest star in the Taurus constellation, symbolizing the brand’s bull heritage, Cor Tauri serves as the guiding beacon for Lamborghini’s electrification initiative. The objective is to uphold the brand’s essence of visceral sports cars even in the era of subdued electric motors.
Experiencing a current surge in success, Lamborghini achieved its first annual sales figure in the five-digit range in 2023, selling a total of 10,112 new vehicles. More than half of these were Urus SUVs, and the trend is set to evolve with an increasing incorporation of hybrid technology into these crossovers.
Lamborghini Lanzador: the first fully electric Lambo.
The Lamborghini Lanzador, revealed at the 2023 Pebble Beach concours, offers a comprehensive preview of the brand’s inaugural electric vehicle (EV) scheduled for launch by 2028.
According to Winkelmann, Lamborghini’s CEO, “The Lanzador marks our debut in the EV realm and introduces a fresh design language for us. Our initial studies indicate positive acceptance of the new bodystyle, retaining Lamborghini’s recognizable aesthetic. However, our focus now shifts to a more in-depth exploration of electrification. This year, we plan to conduct a clinic featuring the Lanzador, aiming to refine its design further. The challenge lies in projecting its appeal over the next five, six, or seven years. While the car exudes a ‘buy it today’ allure, we need to ensure its relevance in the evolving automotive landscape.”
Addressing performance, Winkelmann emphasized, “Power output is a key consideration, with a minimum of one megawatt guaranteed. Achieving excellence in repeated acceleration, top speed, and range is imperative. Our goal is to elevate each aspect to the highest standards. While range optimization remains a focus, we recognize the unique position of our clientele, who often own multiple cars. This allows us some leeway, but repeated acceleration remains a top priority for us.”
In response to the growing shift towards electric powertrains, Lamborghini is proactively expanding its workforce. Winkelmann disclosed in January 2024, “With our current 2300 employees, we plan to hire an additional 500 in the coming years. This strategic expansion aims to enhance our expertise in digitalization and electrification, reinforcing our commitment to embracing the future of automotive technology.
Embracing an Era of Electrification: Lamborghini’s Evolution Towards Sustainable Performance
Lamborghini, renowned for its iconic supercars, is gearing up for a transformative journey into the realm of electric vehicles (EVs). The brand’s forthcoming lineup will feature hybrid versions of the Huracan supercar and Urus SUV, both set to debut in 2024, following the introduction of the Revuelto plug-in supercar.
Underlining the magnitude of this shift, Lamborghini’s investment in electrified technology has soared to €1.8 billion (£1.5bn), marking the largest financial commitment in the history of Lamborghini Automobili. Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Lamborghini, acknowledges the challenges ahead in preserving the essence of Lamborghini’s DNA while adapting to the full electric era. He emphasizes the vital role of electrification in attracting a new generation of customers who prioritize sustainable alternatives.
As of 2022, Lamborghini bid farewell to selling solely internal-combustion-engined cars. Every model going forward will incorporate electrified powertrains, with varying degrees of combustion power. Winkelmann reveals three distinct engines for different models, with the Urus boasting a V8, the Revuelto featuring a V12, and a new engine for the Huracan, signaling a departure from existing powertrains.
The electrified Huracan, slated for a 2024 reveal, is expected to retain a V8 engine. Notably, Lamborghini is developing this engine in-house, distinguishing it from Audi or Porsche derivatives. The engine boasts a 10,000rpm redline and is designed to run on synthetic fuel, aligning with Lamborghini’s commitment to performance and environmental responsibility.
Winkelmann outlines Lamborghini’s strategy for EVs, catering to both traditional petrolheads and eco-conscious consumers. The 2024 Lamborghini Huracan represents the supersports hybrid designed for enthusiasts, while the Urus hybrid and a fourth model previewed by the Lanzador target a more environmentally conscious audience. The latter, positioned as a pure-electric grand tourer, is part of Lamborghini’s vision for the future.
Despite the industry-wide shift toward electrification, Winkelmann remains confident in retaining Lamborghini’s distinct design aesthetic and performance characteristics across various bodystyles. The move to electrify every model aims to reduce CO2 levels per car by 40% compared to 2021 emissions.
Lamborghini’s chief technical officer, Ruben Mohr, brings enthusiasm and commitment to the electrification project. Despite his Audi background, Winkelmann asserts that Lamborghini’s electric vehicle will not be a rebadged e-Tron. The brand leverages its technological advantage within the Volkswagen Group to find the right balance between innovation and the quintessential Lamborghini identity.
The upcoming Lamborghini Lanzador EV, positioned between the Urus and Huracan, aims to complement the Lamborghini brand, filling a GT car void that has persisted for decades. With ambitious sales targets and a focus on sustainability, Lamborghini is poised to navigate the evolving landscape of performance vehicles in the electric era.