You’ve probably heard enough times that electric vehicles are the future of transportation.
But in a surprising move, Aston Martin has become the latest high-end automaker to publicly commit to preserving the internal combustion engine (ICE) for the foreseeable future.
Aston Martin’s CEO, Lawrence Stroll, has boldly stated that the brand will continue producing petrol-powered cars “for as long as we’re allowed.” So, why is Aston Martin sticking its guns to gas-powered vehicles?
The sounds and smells
Some gearheads have claimed that electric vehicles sound like a toy.
Compare that with the thunderous or throaty roar of high-performance engines and the distinct aroma of burning fuel and hot metal. It’s exactly what evokes a primal, adrenaline-fueled driving experience.
Stroll explained that Aston Martin’s customers have a deep-rooted preference for the “sounds and smells” that only an ICE can provide, rather than the silent operation of electric motors.
Focusing on the plug-in hybrid
Aston Martin is instead focusing its efforts on developing plug-in hybrid models. This technology, which combines a combustion engine with an electric motor and battery pack, allows drivers to experience the best of both worlds – the exhilaration of a powerful petrol engine and the efficiency of electric power for shorter trips.
Leading supercar manufacturers like Ferrari and McLaren have already found great success with their own plug-in hybrid offerings, which boast mind-bending performance figures.
The Ferrari 296 GTB and McLaren Artura, for example, can sprint from 0-100 km/h in under three seconds thanks to their petrol-electric powertrains.
Aston Martin is clearly taking note of this trend and plans to apply the same principles to its iconic V8 and V12 engines, pairing them with plug-in hybrid systems. This strategic move caters to the brand’s enthusiastic customer base and allows Aston Martin to stay relevant in an increasingly electrified automotive landscape.
The decision to delay the launch of Aston Martin’s first fully electric model until 2025 also speaks volumes about the company’s priorities. One thing is certain – the roar of the internal combustion engine is not going quietly into the night, at least not in Gaydon.
