Aston Martin Reveals All-Electric RapidE Concept

MANILA: Aston Martin has previewed an all-new RapidE concept as part of the present China state visit to the UK. RapidE has been developed in partnership with Williams Advanced Engineering, with the 6.0-litre V12 petrol engine replaced by batteries and an electric motor. The battery and the motor powers the rear wheels. However, the concept has been manufactured with the help of a Chinese investment group and it can be expected into the production line within a period of two years.

Aston Martin introduced the RapidE at London's Lancaster House, where Prince William and wife Catherine (Kate) welcomed Chinese president Xi Jinping. The car was previewed keeping in mind UK's campaign of encouraging tourism and business investment. It also insights an example of cooperation between British and Chinese organizations. Aston Martin and Chinese investment group, ChinaEquity announced an agreement for exploring the possibility and importance of the RapidE production.

Aston launched the DBX Concept, an AWD electric crossover at the Geneva earlier this year. The company is very keen in the development of future all-electric cars and it could offer hybrid crossovers running on both gas and electric. Aston CEO, Andy Palmer says, "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." He also added, “The exciting RapidE concept tangibly demonstrates the capability and ambition of Aston Martin towards developing low- and zero-emission sports cars."

According to the recent reports, Aston Martin was indulged into developing an electric Rapid S model with an 800 hp of power output. However, Offering both gas and electric versions might help Aston to boost sales against Porsche, Bentley, and Lamborghini crossovers but limiting the model to only electric might limit its appeal.