Everything Electric: Lamborghini Countach Back as Beastly Hybrid
Lambo’s legendary Countach returns–if we’re dreaming, don’t wake us. Plus, news and debuts from Cadillac and Chevy.
Every week we round up the top news, stories and trends dominating the e-mobility scene. This week was an especially good one. Everything Electric covers the thrilling new return of an icon with the Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4 supercar. The limited-edition sports car got a lot of tongues wagging, and a lot of mouths watering. Perhaps most shocking of all is that the revived Lamborghini Countach nameplate is a 800 hp hybrid. Not only is this big for gearheads, it is a powerful demonstration of electric capability.
Also making waves is the new Chevrolet Silverado EV. General Motors released more details on the upcoming all-electric pickup–and it is encouraging. While the 2022 Cadillac Lyriq electric SUV gets everything right–and a release date.
Return of a Legend
Few sports cars have earned the cult status of the Lamborghini Countach. From the mid-1970s to 1990, the Countach was the epitome of bold, distinctive Italian luxury and power. A naturally aspirated V12 combined with striking tapered lines made the Lamborghini Countach the ultimate poster car.
Much has changed since the Countach bowed in 1990. But does this wild, deliciously unrestrained hi-po sports car have a place in today’s market?
Absolutely. Always.
The 2021 Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4 Hybrid made its debut at the Quail: A Motorsports Gathering recently. This limited-edition was designed and created to celebrate the Countach 50th anniversary. It is a masterful interpretation of the classic through modern eyes.
There is no doubt that this is a Countach. While thoroughly modern, the design is faithful to Lamborghini. Visually it is still audacious, decadent, and sinister.
Of course, the biggest update is the aspirated V12 engine is now combined with a 48V electric motor, and Lamborghini’s hybrid supercapacitor technology. Producing a scorching 802 combined horsepower, the 2021 Lamborghini Countach flies from 0 to 60 mph in 2.8 seconds, with a top speed of 221 mph.
More Electric Silverado Details
Chevrolet is making great progress on their upcoming Silverado electric pickup truck. Or at least it looks that way in a recently released tease by GM. We were surprised to see the Silverado EV (aka The Silverado-E) sporting such major 24-inch wheels. But the main feature highlighted is the rear-axle steering.
Four-wheel steer benefits the Chevy Silverado by tightening up the turning radius. (Something they point out while shading Ford and Ram.) Rear-axle steering should give the truck improved steering and a nimble, responsive performance, in particular at lower speeds.
GM expects that the Ultium platform will give the Silverado EV 400 miles of range. Also, the Silverado will come with a expansive range of options and features to best configure the rig.
Still no word on when the Chevrolet Silverado EV will be released; but looks they’re on the right path.
Cadillac Comes In Hot
And when it comes to reviving and rebuilding, everyone should take a page from Cadillac. As a automaker noted for its sumptuous luxury, Cadillac has spanned generations producing vehicles of the highest caliber. Once again, the pursuit of excellence has manifested beautifully in the 2023 Cadillac Lyriq EV.
The 2023 Cadillac Lyriq SUV marks the first electric vehicle for the company. And this is an auspicious beginning to a new era. Much effort went into making the Lyriq appealing, different, and pioneering. And it is all of that, but it also shows a freshness that speaks to how Cadillac approached the EV with a lot of energy and inspiration.
Loaded with driver assist and premier technologies, the Lyriq has a modern performance that still hits on a gut level. Inside, the Lyriq is luxurious, with beautifully employed tech. The dedicated electric architecture has a 12-module, 100 kilowatt-hour battery pack and a rear-wheel-drive platform. Output is a hale 340 horsepower and 300 miles of range on a full charge.
With a starting price of $58,795 the Cadillac Lyriq will open online sales and reservations on September 18.
Photos: Automobil Lamborghini; Chevrolet; Cadillac