By Lamborghini has officially abandoned plans to launch its first fully electric vehicle, marking a major shift for the Italian luxury performance brand. The decision comes as low demand for high-end electric cars and changing European regulations reshape automakers’ electrification strategies.
The cancelled project was meant to be the production version of the Lanzador concept, first shown in August 2023 at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The model was scheduled for release around 2028 or 2029 and would have introduced Lamborghini into the fully electric market.
Company CEO Stephan Winkelmann confirmed the move in a recent interview. He said that investing heavily in a pure electric Lamborghini would be financially irresponsible given current market conditions. According to him, customer interest in a fully electric Lamborghini remains extremely limited, especially among buyers who value the brand’s signature engine sound and performance.
The Lanzador concept represented a new direction for Lamborghini. It was designed as a high-riding two-door grand tourer with seating for four. The concept combined coupe styling with SUV-inspired proportions. Dual motors, one on each axle, would have produced more than 1,000 kilowatts of power, roughly 1,360 horsepower.
Despite cancelling the pure electric version, Lamborghini may still release the model as a plug-in hybrid. This approach aligns with the brand’s goal of keeping combustion engine excitement while lowering emissions.
Market and Regulation Shift
The decision reflects broader uncertainty in the luxury car industry. European Union rules had targeted a 2035 phaseout of new combustion engine vehicle sales, pushing brands to speed up electric development. Recent regulatory changes give manufacturers more flexibility in planning future powertrains.
Performance-focused brands face unique challenges. Many customers associate Lamborghini with engine sound, mechanical engagement, and dramatic driving experiences. These elements remain hard to replicate with electric power alone.
Lamborghini has already embraced electrification through hybrid technology. The company introduced a plug-in hybrid Urus SUV, producing 789 horsepower while offering limited electric-only driving. Hybrid systems help the brand meet emissions goals without abandoning performance.
Competitors continue exploring electric options. Ferrari plans to launch its first fully electric model later this year. Bentley is preparing an electric urban SUV. Audi continues development of an electric sports car. Porsche, however, is reportedly reconsidering parts of its own electric sports car program.
Analysts note that the luxury EV segment remains unpredictable. Development costs are extremely high, and sales volumes are small compared with mainstream electric vehicles. For niche manufacturers, a misjudged investment carries significant financial risk.
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Lamborghini’s decision highlights a trend among performance brands choosing hybrid technology as a transitional solution. By combining electric assistance with combustion engines, automakers can meet emissions targets while preserving their vehicles’ emotional appeal.
For now, Lamborghini focuses on refining hybrid performance rather than fully abandoning combustion technology. Whether the Lanzador returns as a plug-in hybrid will depend on market demand and regulatory clarity in the coming years.
