Why Has Lamborghini Abandoned Its Electric Range?

Italian supercar manufacturer Lamborghini has officially scrapped its plans to launch all-electric models, pivoting instead toward a long-term strategy built entirely around plug-in hybrids. The move comes as global demand for fully electric vehicles declines sharply among its affluent customer base.

Although Lamborghini had introduced its first all-electric concept, the Lanzador, in 2023, the brand has confirmed that it no longer intends to bring the model to market. This strategic U-turn reflects a broader reassessment within the luxury automotive segment regarding the “acceptance curve” for battery-powered performance cars.

Customer base rejects battery supercar performance

Lamborghini President and CEO Stephan Winkelmann told The Times that the market for fully electric supercars had “effectively stalled.” He cautioned that the development of EVs risked turning into “an expensive hobby” for the brand, adding that the acceptance curve for battery technology among its customers was now “close to zero.”

According to Stephan, the Lanzador will be replaced by a plug-in hybrid alternative, meaning Lamborghini’s entire lineup will consist of plug-in hybrids by 2030. He also confirmed that the automaker would continue producing traditional combustion engine vehicles “for as long as possible” to satisfy ongoing demand.

Hybridisation strategy drives record global deliveries

Owned by Volkswagen through its Audi subsidiary, Lamborghini recently announced record-breaking global results. The company delivered 10,747 cars worldwide in 2025, driven by strong enthusiasm for its hybridisation strategy among international buyers.

Europe remains Lamborghini’s largest market, followed by the Americas and Asia Pacific. The results were boosted largely by demand for the Revuelto hybrid supercar – priced from £450,000 – and the plug-in hybrid Urus SUV. These were recently joined by the hybrid Temerario, completing the marque’s transition to electrified models.

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Missing emotional connection with electric noise

A key factor behind the shift away from EVs is what Lamborghini sees as a lack of emotional engagement in fully electric performance cars. Stephan said that sports car fans had failed to develop a “specific emotional connection” with EVs, primarily because they missed the sound and character of an internal combustion engine.

He argued that the visceral sensation of a roaring engine remains “non-negotiable” for Lamborghini owners. “Investing heavily in full-EV development when the market and customer base are not ready would be an expensive hobby and financially irresponsible towards shareholders, customers [and] to our employees and their families,” he stated.

Plug-in hybrids offer the best of both worlds

Stephan believes hybrid technology currently offers the best path forward. “Plug-in hybrids offer the best of both worlds, combining the agility and low-rev boost of electric battery technology with the emotion and power output of an internal combustion engine.”

This marks a notable departure from Lamborghini’s 2021 environmental strategy, which had envisioned a US$1.77bn investment in both hybrid and fully electric vehicles. By focusing solely on hybrids, the company aims to meet tightening regulations while maintaining the performance-driven heritage that defines its brand and satisfies shareholders.