Lamborghini Delays First EV to 2029, Citing Market Readiness and Regulatory Uncertainty

From the article: Lamborghini has delayed the launch of its first electric vehicle (EV) to 2029, a year later than previously planned. Known for its supercars with roaring V12 engines, is adjusting its electrification strategy amidst shifting market dynamics and regulatory landscapes.

The delay was announced by CEO Stephan Winkelmann Lamborghini’s headquarters in Sant’Agata Bolognese, reiterating that the company does not see 2029 as being “too late” for entering the EV market. Winkelmann said that the luxury sports car segment is not yet prepared for full electrification, with current demand falling short of the levels needed to justify a rushed timeline. (via Reuters)

A significant factor in Lamborghini’s decision is the regulatory uncertainty surrounding the European Union’s planned 2035 ban on new internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. A review of this policy is scheduled for 2026, and discussions around synthetic fuels are gaining traction as a potential lifeline for traditional performance cars.

Winkelmann expressed optimism about the opportunities synthetic fuels could provide, suggesting they might allow Lamborghini to maintain its iconic V12 and V8 engines even after stricter regulations take effect.

Despite the delay, Lamborghini is not ignoring electrification altogether. The company recently transitioned its lineup to include only hybrid models, featuring the upgraded Urus SE SUV, the Revuelto supercar, and the newly launched Temerario sports car. These vehicles combine hybrid technology with Lamborghini’s signature internal combustion engines, offering a bridge between the brand’s heritage and its electrified future.

What a bloody joke these “ultra-luxury” car makers from Italy are. From artificially reducing plant capacity rates and manufacturing throughput to induce artificial scarcity and premium brands (2023 gross margins of 50%, which is absurd for an auto manufacturer which usually hovers around 20%), to massive spend on marketing to prop up the luxury appeal in F1, TV, Social media, sponsorships with TikTok influencers and more.

These Italians would rather sit on their laurels, sipping Chianti in the Dolomites at 3PM on a Friday off work early vs. working like their life depended on it. Spending 5+ fucking years making an EV car (to get it just “right”) is a joke and the more I vent about this, the more I am actually mad at these wealthy scrubs who would spend their money with them.

Down with Ferrari/Lambo’s as status symbols.

PS: “Market readiness” is code for them not wanting to cannibalize the sales for their ICE luxury car segments. Why would Lamborghini continue to expend resources in production & design when they would literally be shooting themselves in the foot doing so. You can talk shit about Lucid or Rivian all you want about how fast they are burning through cash, but at-least their vision for success is not incumbered by the past.