Lamborghini has officially delayed the launch of its first fully electric vehicle to 2029, a year later than its previously announced 2028 timeline. The decision, as reported by Reuters, comes directly from Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann, who addressed journalists at the automaker’s Sant’Agata Bolognese headquarters this week.
According to Winkelmann, the luxury performance car market remains hesitant about electric vehicles, leading Lamborghini to adopt a wait-and-see approach. “The market is not yet ready for EVs in the high-end performance segment,” Winkelmann stated, emphasizing that Lamborghini is in no rush to deliver an all-electric model.
The delay also aligns with a critical upcoming review in 2026 by the European Union regarding its 2035 ban on gas-powered vehicles. Winkelmann reportedly described the potential introduction of loopholes for carbon-neutral fuels as an “opportunity” for Lamborghini. This indicates the brand’s ongoing interest in synthetic fuels as a viable alternative to full electrification.
Lamborghini previewed its EV plans with the Lanzador concept, unveiled during Monterey Car Week in 2023. The Lanzador, a futuristic high-riding 2+2 coupe, is expected to serve as Lamborghini’s fourth model line, complementing its current lineup of plug-in hybrids. The delay raises questions about Lamborghini’s subsequent plans for an electric SUV, originally slated for 2029.
This strategic adjustment reflects broader trends in the luxury EV market. Other high-end automakers, including Aston Martin and Bentley, have also pushed back their EV launches by a year to 2026, citing similar concerns. Even Rimac, whose Nevera electric hypercar boasts record-breaking performance, struggles with demand in the ultra-exclusive segment. Rimac CEO Mate Rimac highlighted that buyers in this category often prefer vehicles offering a more analog and emotive driving experience.
By contrast, Ferrari remains steadfast in its electrification plans, with its first EV still scheduled to debut in 2025. Prototypes of Ferrari’s electric model have been spotted undergoing tests near its Maranello headquarters, signaling that Ferrari continues to prioritize its move toward an electric future.
As Lamborghini evaluates the evolving regulatory landscape and consumer demand, it continues to focus on plug-in hybrid technology, a strategy that aligns with its current lineup. The brand’s cautious approach may ultimately allow it to strike the ideal balance between cutting-edge performance and the emotional driving experience its customers demand.
For now, Lamborghini’s vision for electrification remains a work in progress, with 2029 marking the beginning of its electric journey—one that could redefine the future of high-performance motoring.
Elizabeth Puckett