Lamborghini considers synthetic fuels as an alternative to electric cars

Following Porsche and McLaren, Lamborghini also appears to be considering synthetic fuels as an alternative to electric cars in the battle against CO₂ (carbon dioxide) emissions.

It is worth recalling that the European Union approved the end of combustion engines in 2035. However, it granted an exemption to smaller manufacturers selling fewer than 10,000 vehicles in Europe, extending the deadline for negotiating each maker’s individual emissions derogation from 2028 to the end of 2035 and giving them additional time to prepare.

In addition, the European Union has not ruled out technologies such as synthetic fuels as a way of meeting emissions-reduction targets. Their usefulness must be demonstrated by 2026 before they can be included in future legislation.

The future remains uncertain in many respects. As a result, these smaller manufacturers will continue pushing for the use of internal-combustion engines for as long as possible.

That is precisely Lamborghini’s position. Although it has already unveiled its electrification plans, the company has also confirmed that the Aventador’s successor - its next all-new model - will retain a V12 engine in keeping with tradition, albeit paired with an electric system.

Lamborghini and synthetic fuels as an alternative to electric cars

Speaking to TechCrunch, Lamborghini chief executive Stephan Winkelmann said the Sant’Agata Bolognese-based company is assessing whether synthetic fuels could provide a carbon-neutral alternative to battery-electric vehicles.

“It's complicated, because the European Parliament decided this year that they are going to ban petrol and diesel engines in 2035, and smaller manufacturers, such as Lamborghini, in 2036. So we don't have to decide now,” said the Italian marque’s boss.

“We still have the opportunity to perhaps go in the direction of synthetic fuels in this type of car, but for that there has to be a change in the legislation, which at the moment I cannot foresee,” Winkelmann added.

Lamborghini’s fully electric contingency plan

Despite the brand’s interest in alternatives, Winkelmann was equally clear about what would happen if they prove unfeasible: “If this doesn't happen, we will become fully electric by the beginning of the 30s.”

Electric revolution under way

Whatever ultimately happens, Lamborghini is not standing apart from electrification and already has an electric revolution in progress.

After the Sián FKP 37, Sián Roadster and Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4 - so far Lamborghini’s only concessions to electrification - the Italian brand will electrify its entire range over the coming years.

As already mentioned, the Aventador successor will be the first model to embrace electrification, arriving in 2023 as a plug-in hybrid. The Urus will follow with a plug-in hybrid variant in 2024. The Huracán successor will also be electrified and is due in 2025.

As Winkelmann previously confirmed, “from 2025” Lamborghini will only “offer hybrid models in its range”. Its first fully electric model is expected in 2028, apparently as a four-seat crossover, followed by a fully electric Urus.

Source: TechCrunch