Lamborghini has a tendency to properly warm-up their audience before unveiling a new chapter in their history books. This is most often accomplished by teaser photos of sexy curves, bright colors, macho banter, and the chorus of a 12-cylinder powerhouse. For the Asterion hybrid, Felippo Perini, the man behind the design simply says, “It’s not all about the power—It’s a more human car.”
And how does humanity translate to a supercar? The Asterion will get 282 mpg on average, and its hybrid battery system will be cleverly hidden within its center chassis, which is where you might normally find a driveshaft. This improves the safety of the car, as well as helps to balance out its extra weight. Designers have also stretched out the wheelbase, but not to increase grip on the road, but rather to increase the comfort of its passengers. Yeah, we’re still talking about Lamborghini.
Its shape is round, subtle, and appears to be somewhat of a classic design from the 1960’s. In other words, it is not really a trendy silhouette, as much as it is an elegant and tailored one. Its top speed will not be much more than 185 mph, and 0-60 will come at around 3-seconds. And for those who may think this design was taken out of the oven a bit early, Perini says, “I don’t like creating concepts that aren’t ready for production. The Asterion proposes a real future.”
But doesn’t humanity like to have a little fun too? Yes it does, and this is where the 5.2-liter V10 borrowed from the Huracan will come into play. Its 607 horsepower petrol powerplant will be in full control of the rear wheels, while its 300 horsepower electric motors will be in command of the front. Its all-wheel drive setup will be capable of a combined output of 907 horsepower.
The Asterion will receive a fast dual-clutch seven speed transmission, carbon fiber exterior (adapted from the Aventador), carbon/titanium and ivory leather interior, and a detachable infotainment center. And in case you’re wondering, Maurizio Reggiani, the guy in charge of the Asterion’s R&D, ensures us that “this car does not feel like a Prius,” and we believe him. But will it feel enough like a Lamborghini to carry the nameplate?
