Aston Martin Rapide E is the company’s first all-electric model

Many mainstream manufacturers are confirming all-electric new models. Mercedes-Benz recently announced its new electric sub-brand, and its first model: the EQC400. Ford also confirmed a battery-powered SUV. Not to be left out the Aston Martin Rapide E is the first all-electric Aston Martin.

Details

The Aston Martin Rapide E will be made in a limited run of just 155 units. To ensure that its first electric project is a success Aston Martin has partnered with Williams Advanced Engineering (WAE), of F1 fame.

Rapide E will be powered by an 800V battery using over 5 600 lithium ion 18 650 format cylindrical cells. This battery pack resides where the Rapide’s original 6,0-litre V12, gearbox and fuel tank were sited. Power from the battery is used to power two rear-mounted electric motors producing a combined output of just over 450 kW and 950 N.m of torque. Aston Martin Rapide E’s range is estimated at over 320 km.

Aston Martin is targeting a top speed of 250 km/h, with a sub-4,0sec 0-100 km/h sprint time. The British firm is aiming to drive a full lap of the 20,8 km Nürburgring Nordschleife at full pace in the Aston Martin Rapide E with absolutely no de-rating of the battery.

To achieve some of the targets the car’s exterior and underbody has also been aerodynamically optimised. The slippery shape is complemented by newly-designed aerodynamic wheels. Pirelli P Zero tyres aim to deliver a low rolling resistance, while still delivering superior dynamics.

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The development team is paying careful attention to the tuning of the electric powertrain and suspension. The rear-wheel-drive Rapide E’s electric motors will drive through a limited-slip differential.

In their words

Speaking of the Rapide E programme, Andy Palmer, CEO Aston Martin, commented: “Environmental responsibility and sustainability is a global challenge faced by us all. As a career automotive engineer, I’m proud that the car industry is leading the way in finding long-term solutions and reducing harmful emissions. As Aston Martin’s CEO, I take particular satisfaction working with Williams Advanced Engineering and our other associated technology partners to bring Rapide E to reality. As our first all-electric production model, Rapide E will fast-track our knowledge and help us ensure the character and high-performance capabilities of our future EV models and enhance the unique qualities found in all Aston Martins as we know them today. Rapide E will also serve as a critical step on our path to re-launching Lagonda as the world’s first zero-emission luxury marque”.

Aston Martin is busy taking inquiries from interested parties, you can contact the company via its site.