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Lamborghini on Friday took the wraps off its latest concept, dubbed the Lanzador. It's a stunning 2+2 grand tourer with all-electric power, intended to give us an idea of what to expect from the company's first EV, set to debut in 2028.
The Lanzador's design, Lamborghini says, takes inspiration from the company's 2011 Sesto Elemento and the modern Countach. It carries a distinctly Lamborghini profile, but instead of an engine behind the cabin, there's a luggage space with a hatchback rear opening. Along with a front trunk, this is a Lambo with as much storage space as possible. Think Espada or Islero more than Jalpa or Diablo.
Lamborghini's electric concept makes power through what it calls a new generation high-performance battery, powering two electric motors, one for the front wheels, and another for the rear. The company hasn't released specific power numbers, but says peak power is over one megawatt (1341 hp). At the rear you'll find an "active e-torque" system designed to distribute power in such a way to deliver optimal performance through corners.
The company is particularly proud of the new dynamics control system put in place, using "significantly more" sensors and actuators to fine-tune the Lanzador's behavior and power delivery to best suit the driver.
"Lamborghini will define and differentiate itself in the future through a strategy of all active-control systems," CTO Rouven Mohr said in a statement. “We are taking Lamborghini integrated driving dynamics control to a whole new level, which has not been possible for production sports cars before and offers our customers a completely new driving experience. Finding the right balance between power, performance, range and aerodynamics is certainly one of the biggest challenges during development, but challenge is a cornerstone within Lamborghini R&D.”
There are active aerodynamics at the front and rear of the Lanzador, found in the front air shutter and the splitter. Up front, the shutter opens to channel air to the brake ducts and cooling apparatus. In the back, air blades extend out of the side of the diffuser to to improve downforce onto the spoiler. There are also concealed louvers at each front wheel well for removing pressure at the wheels at high speed, reducing lift.
In typical Lamborghini fashion, it looked to aerospace for the Lanzador's cabin inspiration. The Y-shaped center console separates the driver and passenger in a true jet-like fashion, and holds controls for the entertainment, climate control, and other functions. The driver controls the car's dynamics via controls on the steering wheel. Inside you'll also find a bunch of sustainable materials, like sustainably tanned leather, 100-percent authentic wool from Australian Merino sheep, and recycled plastic.
"With the fourth model concept, we are looking into our future without forgetting our DNA," CEO Stephan Winkelmann said in a statement. "The first coupés from Lamborghini with their front engines were sporty, elegant Gran Turismos suitable for everyday use as 2+2-seaters. The concept for our fourth production model leverages our philosophy of super sportiness combined with brave new technologies and fearless design."
Brian Silvestro is Hearst Autos' Lead Deputy Editor for rankings content. He spent over seven years as a staff writer for Road & Track Magazine, and still contributes regularly with car reviews, industry interviews, and more.
He also has a taste for high-mileage, rusted-out projects and amateur endurance racing.
