Aston Martin's Electric Evolution Continues: The 2020 Rapide E
Here comes a defining moment for Aston Martin as the automaker presents its first all-electric production car, the 2020 Rapide E. Unleashed at China’s Auto Shanghai motor show, this model seems to symbolize an important juncture in the evolution of Aston Martin.
The Leap from Concept to Production Reality
Five years after unveiling the RapidE EV concept that signaled the brand's intent towards electrification, we now witness the emergence of their maiden electric model, Rapide E. As it rolls out from Aston Martin’s newly dubbed 'Home of Electrification', St Athan production facility, there appears to be more than just environmental responsibility driving this launch. It indicates a broader strategy leading up to Lagonda - which is slated to become the world's first zero-emission luxury marque.
Exclusive and Limited Edition
Maintaining exclusivity comes naturally to Aston Martin as evidenced by the 155 units-only production run planned for Rapide E. With design aesthetics overseen by Marek Reichman, Executive Vice President & Chief Creative Officer at Aston Martin, one can expect every unit off-the-line being nothing short of spectacular.
Redefining Aerodynamic Performance
This fully electric variant sports significant modifications translating into aerodynamic gains over its V12 predecessor. From a honeycomb front grille replacing traditional metal vanes, redesigned underfloor for optimized airflow; right through to new larger rear diffuser sans exhaust system—each tweak contributes towards bettering efficiency with an overall improvement of around 8% claimed over prior internal combustion variants.
Fusing Luxury with Technology
Packaged within streamlined carbon-fiber bodywork lies a 10" digital display replacing former analogue dials. It provides real-time information including battery state of charge, motor power levels and energy consumption metrics amongst other data points at driver’s fingertips. Additionally, a dedicated mobile app offers an extended interface for remotely tracking range, charging status, service reminders and even locating your parked car.
Superb Spec Sheet
The stunning exterior conceals an equally impressive powertrain that comprises two rear-mounted electric motors collectively generating over 610PS with a colossal torque figure of 950Nm. Powered by more than 5600 lithium-ion cells packed within carbon fiber and Kevlar casing, the bespoke 800V electrical architecture battery system ensures effective thermal management along with higher charging efficiencies. Further performance figures include topping speeds of about 155mph; going from standstill to 60mph in under four seconds while promising no derating across varied driving conditions or battery states.
Power Sustainability
Rapide E is said to achieve a WLTP tested range exceeding 200 miles on full charge while supporting rapid recharging rates—preferably through an ideal high-power outlet delivering over 100kW—to gain up to around three times the distance driven per hour charged when compared against typical chargers outputting about one-third of this power rating.
Persistent Performance Spirit
Apart from its obvious eco-friendly nature, Rapide E seems loyal towards maintaining Aston Martin's core DNA representing luxury combined with supreme speed capabilities—something we've liked about models like their recent remarkable Rapide AMR edition. The limited slip differential integrated into its twin-motor setup works wonders for handling alongside three selectable modes viz., GT, Sport and Sport+ affecting both power delivery as well as ride dynamics thus ensuring there's ample thrill left intact despite transitioning towards electricity powered mobility.
The Road Ahead Unfolds
While Aston Martin’s bold move in embracing electric vehicle technology is indeed commendable, the company’s commitment toward preserving distinctive driving experiences - that has defined their cars over years – is even more praiseworthy. As the Rapide E opens for orders without official pricing announced yet, it seems to pave a promising path towards an exciting future — one where speed and sustainability can coexist.
-Ed
2020 Aston Martin Rapide E
