When we think of a Lamborghini, we wouldn’t normally think hybrid, but that is the exact definition of the all-new Asterion concept car. This new vehicle, just revealed at the 2014 Paris Motor Show, is a leader in a new trend of hybrid sports cars. Lamborghini, known for their powerful luxury sports cars, started out as a tractor company by founder Ferruccio Lamborghini. It was only when the company took off and Ferruccio cashed in that he decided to make a sports car that could compete with Ferrari. Speed has always been a competitive point of interest for Lamborghini, but now with the new Asterion, fuel economy is as well.
Trends in Hybrid Luxury Vehicles
Hybrids are increasingly dominating the market, because of their environmental consciousness and for the fact that they actually save car owners money. Auto technician courses will inform you that a hybrid car, on average, will result in 25-90 percent less emissions than a gas engine. However, fewer emissions are just one reason why hybrids are being more seriously considered for today’s cars. Hybrids use less oil, are cheaper to maintain and have better performance than exclusively gasoline engines. Luxury cars and super cars are now tapping into these benefits by adding hybrid engines to their vehicles. Here are some of today’s top hybrid luxury cars:
- Lexus LS (600hp)
- 2014 Mercedes-Benz E400 Sport Hybrid
- 2014 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid
- 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5
- Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid
- 2013 Infiniti M35h
The Asterion Engine
While the car does look beautiful, we first have to address the huge differences in this model’s engine. The Asterion is a plug-in hybrid, and works with three electric motors: two on either side of the front of the vehicle and one between the V10 engine and the transmission. The V10 is 5.2L and cranks out 600 horsepower. With the added 300 horsepower from the two electric engines, the Asterion has an astounding total of 910hp. An automotive service technician might know that the closest vehicle matching this speed is the Ferrari LaFerrari, another hybrid with a horsepower of 950. It’s been said that the Asterion can also hit speeds of up to 60mph in exactly three seconds.
The Design
As a luxury vehicle, this Lamborghini model seems to be designed as a more city cruising type of car than previous models like the Huracan and the Aventador. The seating position for the Asterion is higher than both these vehicles, and there is also a luggage compartment at the front of the car. On the dash is a portable tablet with audio, GPS and climate controls. The exterior of the vehicle has a much more curvaceous design than other models, which those in auto careers may find unusual, since Lamborghini is typically known for their sharp, flat designs.
Here is the display for the Asterion at the 2014 Paris Motor Show:
