The prestigious hypercar manufacturer Pagani, known for its V12-powered cars, could well give in to the electrification trend. Christopher Pagani, son of the founder, reveals that the brand has not abandoned the idea of an all-electric model, despite the technological challenges to be overcome.
A strategic turnaround for the V12 specialist
Pagani has built a reputation for excellence with its hypercars powered by 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 engines supplied by Mercedes-AMG. These exceptional vehicles combine cutting-edge design with exceptional performance, making each model a true work of rolling art.
The idea of an electric Pagani had already been raised in 2018, before being shelved last year. The brand had then expressed reservations about the battery technology and charging times, deemed incompatible with its philosophy.
An electrical project still relevant today
At the recent Goodwood Festival of Speed, Christopher Pagani surprised everyone by declaring: “We are continuing to work on the electric car project, it is not a closed chapter for us.” This announcement marks a turning point in the strategy of the brand, known for its attachment to thermal engines.
Pagani's marketing director, however, tempered his comments, pointing out the lack of interest from dealers in an all-electric Pagani hypercar. He called the project “fun to build,” suggesting that it is more of a technical challenge than a short-term commercial desire.
Technical challenges to overcome
The main obstacle to developing an electric Pagani is the weight of the batteries. The Italian brand prioritizes driving dynamics and agility over simple raw power. Adding heavy batteries could compromise these qualities essential to Pagani's DNA.
So far, the project has not progressed beyond the virtual design stage. No full-scale prototype has yet been built, reflecting the complexity of the challenge of reconciling electrification and Pagani's philosophy.
Innovation at the heart of Pagani’s identity
Christopher Pagani recalled the importance of innovation in the history of the brand: “We have always sought to be innovative. The Zonda introduced the extensive use of composite materials, a first in the automotive industry.” He also mentioned the Huayra, the first twin-turbo hypercar, and the Utopia, which marks the return to the manual gearbox.
This desire for innovation could well push Pagani to take up the challenge of electrification, provided that it can provide real technological added value. The brand will only embark on the adventure if it can develop a vehicle that meets its high standards and brings real innovations.
A future still uncertain
Despite these statements, Pagani's electric future remains unclear. The brand could benefit from an exemption allowing it to continue producing combustion engines beyond 2035, the date scheduled for the ban on combustion vehicles in Europe.
The arrival of an electric Pagani is therefore not for tomorrow, but the idea is gaining ground. If it comes to fruition, such a car could compete with electric hypercars like the Rimac Nevera or the Pininfarina Battista, redefining the standards of performance and luxury in this exclusive segment.
To close this topic, it is clear that Pagani remains cautious in its approach to electrification. The brand will not sacrifice its identity and values on the altar of the electric trend, but continues to explore the possibilities offered by this evolving technology.