Why Is Lamborghini Hitting Pause on Fully Electric Models?
Lamborghini’s latest move has left some jaws on the floor: the next-generation Urus won’t be a full EV as originally planned. Instead, it’s going plug-in hybrid. This isn’t just a technical pivot—it’s a response to what Lamborghini’s most loyal customers are actually asking for. Turns out, the world’s wealthiest car buyers aren’t quite ready to give up the roar and drama of a combustion engine, even as the industry races toward electrification.
This isn’t just a Lamborghini thing, either. Ferrari and Lotus have also pumped the brakes on their all-electric ambitions after discovering that their clientele still craves the visceral experience of a traditional powertrain. Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann put it plainly: customers will be “very happy” to hear the Urus is sticking with a hybrid setup for now.
What’s Driving Lamborghini’s Hybrid Strategy?
Let’s get real—building a super SUV like the Urus is about more than just numbers on a spec sheet. For Lamborghini, the emotional connection is everything. The brand’s research and direct feedback show that buyers want electrification, but not at the expense of performance or character. A plug-in hybrid offers a sweet spot: instant electric torque for city driving, but still that unmistakable V8 soundtrack when you put your foot down.
The Urus SE PHEV, for example, boasts a combined 789 horsepower and a 37-mile electric-only range. That’s enough for most daily commutes, but the real magic is how seamlessly it blends electric power with classic Lamborghini theatrics. It’s a balancing act, and so far, customers seem to love it.
How Soon Will the Next-Generation Urus Arrive?
If you’re itching for the next Urus, patience is key. Lamborghini is hinting at a 2029 launch for the second-generation model. That’s a long wait, but it gives the company time to refine its hybrid tech and see how the market evolves. In the meantime, expect more variants of the current Urus, including a plug-in hybrid Performante, to keep things spicy.
As for a fully electric Urus? Don’t hold your breath. The earliest we might see one is 2035, and even that’s not set in stone. Lamborghini is watching how regulations, charging infrastructure, and—most importantly—customer attitudes shift over the next decade.
What’s the Status of the Lanzador EV and Lamborghini’s Electric Future?
Remember the Lanzador concept from Monterey Car Week in 2023? It was Lamborghini’s bold vision for a fourth series production model: a sleek 2+2 crossover, dual-motor all-wheel drive, and an interior crafted almost entirely from sustainable materials. The Lanzador was supposed to hit the streets in 2028, but now that timeline’s been nudged back to 2029 at the earliest.
Winkelmann hasn’t ruled out a late-decade launch, but he’s also made it clear that Lamborghini isn’t rushing. The company wants to see how the EV landscape matures before committing. It’s a cautious approach, but one that’s rooted in listening to their core audience.
Why Are Luxury Buyers Hesitant About EVs?
Here’s the crux: for many supercar and luxury SUV buyers, an EV just doesn’t deliver the same emotional punch. The sound, the shifting, the sense of occasion—these are things that matter deeply to Lamborghini’s clientele. According to a 2023 McKinsey report, over 60% of luxury car buyers still prefer hybrid or combustion engines, citing concerns over range, charging times, and the intangible thrill of driving.
There’s also a practical side. Many of these vehicles are driven in regions where charging infrastructure is still catching up. And let’s face it, if you’re spending north of $200,000 on a car, you want it to feel special every time you hit the start button.
What’s Next for Lamborghini and the Super SUV Segment?
The super SUV market is evolving fast, but Lamborghini’s strategy is a reminder that not every buyer is ready to go all-in on electric. By doubling down on plug-in hybrids, Lamborghini is keeping one foot in the future while staying true to its roots. Other brands are watching closely—don’t be surprised if this hybrid-first approach becomes the new normal for exotics.
The big takeaway? The future of high-performance SUVs isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.