What's this then?
This is the Lamborghini Asterion; Sant'Agata's plug-in hybrid supercar.
Oh no, a hybrid Lambo!
Quite, though don't go too mad, as the Asterion is a one-off 'technology demonstrator' with no indication that it will actually make production. The tech could make its way into the Urus SUV however and what tech it is. Positioned where you would normally expect to find it in a Lamborghini is the 5.2-litre V10 petrol engine we know from the Huracán, but that has been joined by a trio of electric motors. Two up front power the front wheels exclusively while the third is mounted within the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The result is 910hp, 0-62mph in 3.0 seconds and a top speed just shy of 200mph.
Now that sounds like the Lamborghini we know and love.
Actually it sounds like no Lamborghini before it, as the Asterion can be switched into front-wheel drive electric mode where it can travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone and at speeds up to 76mph.
So is this Lamborghini's LaFerrari fighter?
It would appear to be, or at least it would be if it were to make production, but Lamborghini boss Stephan Winkelmann was keen to point out that the Asterion is not about lap records but more about being the ultimate luxury cruiser. A change of tack for Lamborghini perhaps but one that is not unexpected.
Anything else I should know?
Perhaps that the Asterion has a combined fuel economy of 56mpg and emissions of 98g/km.
Paul Healy - 2 Oct 2014