What's all this about?

Aston Martin has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with global technology firm LeEco, and the first thing this pairing is going to do is build a production version of the all-electric RapidE concept car by 2018.

Wow, can an all-electric Aston Rapide really happen that soon?

If Aston and LeEco can solve the issues around battery systems and the powertrain, then yes. The potential is certainly there to achieve this noble aim in just two years, and the MOU allows for the future addition of a range of next-generation connected electric vehicles beyond that.

Does Aston have anything to say about this?

Yes, Dr Andy Palmer, Aston's CEO, said: "Aston Martin is dedicated to developing a range of cars with low emission technologies. We have been encouraged by the project speed and technical depth shown by Letv in the development of the RapidE concept towards full production. Bringing the RapidE to market by 2018 is an important milestone for both companies."

And, in the interests of balance, how about LeEco?

Ding Lei, co-founder and global vice chairman of LeEco's SEE Plan, added: "Signing of this MOU ushers a new phase of the collaborations between Aston Martin and LeEco. LeEco's SEE Plan is dedicated to build electric, smart, connected and socialised cars. We have been targeting the highest standard in the auto industry in terms of design, R&D and manufacturing of our electric cars. We hope that, by strengthening collaborations with Aston Martin, our future models will provide premium qualities and delicate arts and crafts as good as those of Aston Martin."