Aston Martin’s new boss reveals electric plans

There will be a plug-in hybrid version of the DBX SUV (above) in three years. Photo: Liz Dobson

Every fourth or fifth Aston Martin sold in 2024 will be electrified, with a plug-in hybrid version of the DBX ultraluxury SUV arriving in 2023, says the company’s new CEO Tobias Moers.

The British supercar maker can rapidly electrify its lineup after securing access to Mercedes-Benz’s technologies, including next-generation hybrid and electric powertrains. In exchange, the German brand boosts its current 2.3 per cent stake in Aston Martin to 20 per cent.

Aston Martin previously said it would launch its own hybrid V-6 drivetrain in the Valhalla hypercar in 2021. Moers, however, hinted that the automaker could end the project and use a Mercedes powertrain instead.

"We are still working on that [hybrid drivetrain], but we now have alternatives. It's too early to say" what decision will be made, he said during a call with reporters, according to Europe Automotive News.

The Valhalla will be followed by the Vanquish mid-engine coupe, which will also have an electrified powertrain. Moers said people who buy mid-engined supercars now expected them to have hybrid technology.

Meanwhile, Aston's first full-electric car will arrive in 2025-26 and be equipped with Mercedes technology, Moers told Europe Automotive News.

Under Aston Martin’s former CEO, Dr Andy Palmer, the brand had intended to launch its first full-electric car in 2021-22 under the revived Lagonda badge, but Moers confirmed that plan had been shelved.