800 bhp Electric Aston Martin RapidE nearly here – but will then get replaced by a Lagonda

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The Aston Martin RapidE – an 800bhp version of the Rapide four-door saloon – will replace the current Rapide, only to be replaced by a new Lagonda saloon.

It was back in 2015 that the Aston Martin RapidE Concept was revealed, a Rapide with a big ‘E’ at the end to let you know this particular Aston was electric powered.

Designed as a great way to reduce Aston’s average CO2 emissions, the RapidE was nonetheless an appealing prospect with 800-bhp on tap from its electric motors driving both axles, promising real supercar performance and a green halo for Aston too.

At the time, Andy Palmer, AML boss, said that the RapidE would arrive in 2017, but that’s slipped just a bit as it’s now going to arrive in 2018. But it is going to arrive.

Speaking to Australia’s Motoring, Palmer confirmed that the electric RapidE will arrive next year and will take the place of the current Rapide, rather than compliment it. But not for long.

The plan seems to be to properly revive the Lagonda badge for sport saloons, with a new Lagonda by 2020 which will carry forward the electric super saloon and see the demise of the RapidE – with or without a big ‘E’.

Of course, by 2020 buyers who want an Aston Martin for more than just two people will also have the choice of the DBX SUV too, although it does seem more sensible to us to badge that a Lagonda and keep the Aston Martin badge for Astons made for two.

Interestingly, it looks like Aston Martin may be the first car maker to delete an ICE model but continue it as a BEV.