Lamborghini Lanzador PHEV Decision Expected by Year-End: CTO

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      It has been two years since Lamborghini captured attention at Monterey Car Week with its Lanzador concept—a high-riding coupe that accommodates four people and is also an electric vehicle. This may have sounded odd back then, and it still feels strange now. The Lanzador hinted at a future where Lamborghini's internal combustion engine supercars and high-performance electric vehicles could coexist, providing Raging Bull clients with the best of both realms. Fast forward to 2025, and the outlook for the 2023 concept is less certain.

      The automotive landscape has shifted considerably over the past two years, whether discussing mainstream or specialty vehicles, and the demand for electric vehicles—especially extravagant models—has diminished. (Horacio Pagani might argue that such demand never really existed.) Nevertheless, Lamborghini has not yet made a decision regarding the Lanzador's future, particularly its drivetrain, with some reports suggesting it could potentially launch as a plug-in hybrid.

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      Lamborghini's Chief Technology Officer, Rouven Mohr, recently shared with The Drive that a resolution regarding the Lanzador is still pending, but it should come soon.

      “I wouldn’t say it definitively, but it’s apparent that since we will launch the car by the end of the decade, we are keeping all options open; claiming what we will certainly do would be a mistake,” Mohr stated when asked about a PHEV version of the Lanzador.

      “We are closely monitoring market trends, and if I look at the key markets critical for us right now, there is no strong push towards EVs. Particularly at this moment, there has been a shift in mindset for us, highlighting that we cannot tailor a car for every single market,” he continued. “Therefore, we must tread carefully regarding our global choices, and this decision has not yet been made. It’s absolutely correct. We will likely finalize it by the end of the year.”

      Lamborghini has not disclosed any specific details about the Lanzador’s electric components, so it is refraining from making any definitive claims. However, it did indicate that it would be an EV, so transitioning to a PHEV would indeed represent a significant shift—one that would, I believe, be more welcomed than rejected by most brand enthusiasts.

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      While a high-riding EV may not attract the majority of Lamborghini clientele, I would contend that a two-door, lifted Urus featuring a PHEV drivetrain with seating for four would likely be a hot seller, particularly in the Middle East. Just look at the popularity of the Sterrato.

      That said, the Lanzador’s design would need to be adjusted to house a gasoline engine and other necessary components for a PHEV drivetrain, but to what extent? Mohr addressed this question as well.

      “In terms of specifics, yes, absolutely. But overall, it would still be feasible to maintain a similar appearance,” Mohr remarked. “The packaging may differ, but from a customer’s perspective, we could certainly create a comparable vehicle powered by combustion. However, it’s clear that we are investigating this opportunity and also considering the right body type since it's possible that a body designed for a fully electric vehicle is a more suitable option.”

      As 2025 draws closer, it will be intriguing to see when we finally learn about the Lanzador’s official specifications—and most importantly, what those will be.

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