Aston Martin Unveils All-Electric Rapide E Sedan in China
Aston Martin’s first electric vehicle—and quite possibly James Bond’s next ride—made its world debut in production form at Auto Shanghai today. The Rapide E has been developed in collaboration with Williams Advanced Engineering and will be sold as a special-edition model.
The Rapide E is powered by an 800V electrical architecture battery—a standard that’s not even available in North America yet. With a 65-kWh capacity, it feeds two rear-mounted electric motors producing just over 600 horsepower and 700 lb.-ft. of torque. The car’s range exceeds 320 kilometres based on the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), but it would likely be rated at a little under 300 kilometres on this continent.
Top speed for the Rapide E is 250 km/h and sprints from 0-96 km/h (60 mph) require less than four seconds—no matter the charge level of the battery, Aston Martin says.
Moreover, engineers paid careful attention to the tuning of both the electric powertrain and the chassis across three drive modes: GT, Sport and Sport +. The two motors are connected by a limited-slip differential which, combined with revised spring and damper rates, ensures the pure handling characteristics Aston Martin is renowned for.
Physically speaking, the Rapide E is eight percent more aerodynamic than the previous internal combustion model thanks to an optimized front section, a redesigned underfloor, a new larger rear diffuser and forged aluminum aerodynamic wheels shod with low rolling-resistance Pirelli P Zero tires.
Inside, carbon fibre is used extensively for a more premium feel and a lighter package. The analog instruments give way to a 10-inch digital display, delivering all key information while on the move, including the battery’s state of charge, current power levels, regenerative performance and real-time energy consumption. A dedicated app also allows drivers to keep track of it all remotely.
As previously reported, the Aston Martin Rapide E will be limited to 155 units, all built at the British automaker’s state-of-the-art St Athan assembly plant. Orders have begun, with prices available on application.