Lamborghini Cancels Lanzador EV, Shifts Focus to Plug-in Hybrids

Lamborghini has officially canceled its plans for the Lanzador, an all-electric supercar initially slated for production in 2028. CEO Stephan Winkelmann announced this decision after extensive discussions with dealers and analysis of market trends, revealing that interest in electric vehicles (EVs) among high-end customers is "close to zero." The company has opted to pivot towards plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), with a new hybrid model expected to launch by the end of the decade.

Wired MagazineLamborghini Kills Its First EV, Calls Them An 'Expensive Hobby'Electrek

Winkelmann characterized the development of full EVs as an "expensive hobby," arguing that investing heavily in electric vehicle technology would be financially irresponsible given the current market conditions. He emphasized that Lamborghini's clientele values the "emotional connection" provided by internal combustion engines (ICE), which he believes EVs currently fail to deliver. The lack of engine noise and the unique driving experience associated with traditional combustion engines are significant factors in this decision.

Electrek

Despite Lamborghini's reluctance to fully embrace electrification, the automotive industry is facing increasing pressure to comply with stricter emissions regulations. By 2035, automakers in the European Union must reduce CO2 emissions by 90% compared to 2021 levels, with an interim target of a 55% reduction by 2030. While Lamborghini is not entirely closing the door on electric vehicles, it is currently focusing on PHEVs as a viable solution to meet regulatory requirements without fully transitioning to electric models.

Lamborghini Kills Its First EV, Calls Them An 'Expensive Hobby'

Lamborghini's retreat from electrification mirrors similar moves by other luxury automakers. For instance, Bentley has postponed its electric plans until 2035, and Aston Martin has delayed its first all-electric vehicle. Critics argue that Lamborghini's stance may hinder its competitiveness in a rapidly evolving market, where other brands like Ferrari are preparing to launch fully electric models, such as the Luce, in the near future.

Wired MagazineElectrekLamborghini Kills Its First EV, Calls Them An 'Expensive Hobby'

Winkelmann stated, “Investing heavily in full-EV development when the market and customer base are not ready would be an expensive hobby, and financially irresponsible towards shareholders, customers, and employees.” He further noted that the new hybrid model will combine the benefits of electric technology with the emotional experience of traditional engines.

Lamborghini Kills Its First EV, Calls Them An 'Expensive Hobby'

• “it was clear not only that the acceptance of full electric cars is flattening worldwide for our type of cars, it's going almost to zero—if not to zero.” — Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Lamborghini

Wired Magazine

• “Investing heavily in full-EV development when the market and customer base are not ready would be an expensive hobby, and financially irresponsible towards shareholders, customers [and] to our employees and their families,” — Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Lamborghini

Electrek

• “EVs, in their current form, struggle to deliver this specific emotional connection.” — Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Lamborghini

Electrek

Looking ahead, Lamborghini plans to focus on developing its lineup of PHEVs, which will include the new hybrid version of the Lanzador. The company aims to balance regulatory compliance with customer preferences while navigating the challenges of the luxury automotive market.

Electrek