Lamborghini’s fourth series-production model, expected to be based on the Lanzador concept and now due in 2029, may launch as a plug-in hybrid rather than a fully electric vehicle (EV) as initially intended.
The Lanzador, a high-riding 2+2 GT coupe unveiled in 2023, was presented as a preview of Lamborghini’s first fully electric model.
However, recent comments from CEO Stephan Winkelmann suggest the brand is rethinking its powertrain strategy for the car, citing a softening in global demand for EVs, particularly in the high-end segment.
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“We took two decisions so far based on the fact that the acceptance curve of the electric cars worldwide and globally, not only in our type of segment, is flattening, and this is even more true for our type [of cars],” Mr Winkelmann toldCarExpert.
The production version of the Lanzador was originally slated to spearhead Lamborghini’s EV transition, sitting alongside the hybridised Revuelto, Temerario and next-gen Urus. But Mr Winkelmann says a plug-in hybrid is now firmly on the table.
“The first decision [we made as a result of the EV market] is that Urus replacement would be, again, a plug-in hybrid, and that we postpone the launch of the fourth [model],” he said.
While the vehicle’s arrival was pushed back a year from 2028, the final decision on whether it will be fully electric or hybrid has yet to be made.
“We have to decide whether we go one way or the other very soon, but today is still… it’s possible [that it is a plug-in hybrid], but it’s something which is still very open,” Mr Winkelmann said.
The comments reflect broader shifts in the luxury car market, where EV enthusiasm appears to be slowing. While Lamborghini remains committed to electrification, its approach is pragmatic.
“Again, we said we don’t need to be there at the beginning, but we need to be there when the people are ready to buy these things. And for me, this is paramount for the success of a company like ours,” Mr Winkelmann said.
The brand has already committed to hybridising its entire lineup and the new V8 plug-in hybrid drivetrain developed for the Temerario reflects the company’s investment in long-term performance-oriented electrification.
Mr Winkelmann also reiterated Lamborghini’s intent to keep internal combustion engines alive in its two flagship supercars for as long as regulations allow.
“If sustainable fuels are coming, then this is a huge opportunity to keep internal combustion engines. Besides that, for sure, the headline should be, we will keep them as long as possible, at least for the two supercars,” he said.
With the Lanzador-based fourth model still years away, Lamborghini is using the time to reassess its strategy. The original plan to go more electric remains technically feasible, but it may no longer make sense commercially and the company is conscious of its potential impact on residual values.
“We are a technology-driven company, but about certain things, you have always to look into the emotional side of the people which it is surrounding, and the second buyer for sure… because performance is driven not by just acceleration or top speed, but by emotion.” Mr Winkelmann said.
Lamborghini isn’t walking away from electrification. But whether the Lanzador makes it to production as an EV or a plug-in hybrid will depend on whether customers are ready to embrace it by 2029.