An Inside Look at Aston Martin’s First Electric Car for Students in Auto Mechanic Courses

From James Bond to English royalty, Aston Martin has a history of world-class automotive innovation, which continues to this day. Recently, the British luxury brand took to the stage at the Shanghai Motor Show to reveal its first electric car model, the four-door Rapide E. From its Kevlar-protected battery pack to its forged aluminum wheels, Aston Martin took great care to present an electric vehicle (EV) that continues its famous reputation for high-end and high-performance luxury. In fact, the Rapide E is even rumored to be making a cameo in the upcoming Bond film!

Want to know what you can expect from the Rapide E in your auto mechanic career? Read on to find out more.

Aston Martin Added a Few Aesthetic Changes to the New Rapide E Model

The Rapide E may look a little familiar. That’s because it’s an electric version of the Rapide S. At least on the outside, the two are very similar.

However, there are differences between them. If you want to become an auto mechanic, then you may be aware that electric vehicles are designed differently than their gas-powered counterparts. Electric cars, for instance, require less air to run, so Aston Martin changed the design of components like the grille in order to improve the Rapide E’s aerodynamics.

Aston Martin also took the chance to reconfigure a few other elements in the Rapide E, including replacing the analog gauge cluster with a digital screen. It still includes modes like GT, Sport, and Sport+. However, the Rapide E also has an additional redesigned underfloor, larger rear diffuser, and forged aluminum wheels.

The Rapide E Engine Looks a Little Different from what Auto Mechanics May Expect

One of the most recognizable aspects of an Aston Martin vehicle for students in auto mechanic courses is its naturally aspirated 6.0L V12 engine. Of course, an all-electric model doesn’t use the same fuel or need the same parts as a gas-fueled vehicle, so the engine of the Rapide E might be a bit of a surprise for aspiring auto mechanics.

Instead of its famous engine, the Aston Martin Rapide E has a battery pack composed of more than 5,600 lithium-ion cells, which produce 800V of energy. All told, it has a reported output of 612 hp and can go from 0-60 mph in under four seconds, with a max speed of just under 250 km/h. The battery is snugly encased in carbon fibre and Kevlar, and can last for more than 300 kilometres on one charge.

You Might See More EVs from Aston Martin When You Become a Mechanic

Only 155 models of the Rapide E will be produced, and this limited test run will allow Aston Martin to gauge demand for any future EVs still in development. However, while the Rapide E will be available to only a select few, Aston Martin does have big plans for future EVs that extend well beyond the Rapide E.

Apart from its regular production line, Aston Martin also owns the Lagonda luxury car brand. As part of its efforts to introduce more electric vehicles, Aston Martin has directed a new line of luxury EVs to be sold under the Lagonda brand. So while you may not be seeing a Rapide E in the garage any time soon due to its limited availability, you may get your fair share of Lagonda EVs sometime in the near future.

Are you interested in finding out how to get involved in auto mechanic careers in Montreal?

Contact Automotive Training Centres for more information.