Lamborghini is the Latest Automaker to Pull the Plug on Luxury EVs

Wired

by Jeremy White

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Lamborghini has officially abandoned its plans to produce the Lanzador, a high-end electric supercar once touted as the brand's entry into the electric age. The decision comes after CEO Stephan Winkelmann conducted extensive research with dealers and analyzed market data, revealing that demand for luxury EVs is "almost zero." This shift mirrors similar retreats by other high-end automakers like Bentley, Aston Martin, and Genesis, which have also delayed or scaled back their electrification efforts due to weak consumer interest and insufficient charging infrastructure. The Lanzador, a 1,341-horsepower concept car with a finalized design and drivetrain, was initially set for release in 2028 but has been scrapped. Instead, Lamborghini will focus on plug-in hybrids, with its first hybrid model expected by 2029. Winkelmann emphasized that while the company is ready to manufacture electric vehicles, the luxury market itself is not currently accepting of full EVs. This pivot highlights a broader trend in the luxury car industry, where even the most exclusive brands are struggling to justify expensive EV projects. Despite the overall decline in demand for luxury EVs, global EV sales remain strong in mass-market segments. In 2025, global EV registrations rose by 20% to 20.7 million units, with significant growth in China (12.9 million) and Europe (4.3 million). However, the U.S. saw minimal growth, and luxury brands like Tesla are also facing challenges, with deliveries dropping by 9% compared to 2024. This disparity underscores a growing divide between mainstream EV adoption and the luxury sector. The decision by Lamborghini and other high-end automakers to focus on hybrids rather than full EVs reflects a strategic reevaluation of their electrification strategies. While the broader automotive industry continues to push toward electric vehicles, the luxury segment appears to be lagging behind due to limited consumer interest and practical challenges. As a result, these brands are opting for more transitional solutions like plug-in hybrids, which offer a bridge between traditional combustion engines and full electrification. This shift raises questions about the future of luxury EVs and whether high-end automakers will ever fully embrace electric technology. For now, it seems that even the most prestigious names in the industry are prioritizing feasibility over innovation, aligning their strategies with market realities rather than ideal

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Originally published on Wired on 2/23/2026