What's the news?
Aston Martin has given the green light to its first ever electric car, a production version of the RapidE concept revealed in 2015. Due to go into limited production of 155 cars in 2019, the new all-electric 'four-door sports car' will actually be based on the underpinnings of the Aston Martin Rapide AMR, a car that we've also only seen in concept form to date.
Aston Martin President and CEO, Dr Andy Palmer, said of the RapidE: "Having unveiled the RapidE Concept back in October 2015 we reach another milestone with the confirmation that we are now putting the first all-electric Aston Martin into production. 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."
Anything else?
Aston Martin will collaborate with Williams Advanced Engineering on the engineering of the RapidE, replacing the 6.0-litre V12 powertrain found in the Aston Rapide S with the electric components.
Paul McNamara, Technical Director at Williams Advanced Engineering, said: "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."