Pagani reveals why its electric hypercar project was shelved, citing lack of demand and a commitment to its iconic V12 powertrain. Learn more now.
The Ambitious Electric Hypercar Plan
At the Ignition event organised by Quattroruote, Pagani founder Horacio Pagani opened up about a secret electric hypercar that was being developed in parallel with the brand’s Utopia model. The project demanded extensive engineering resources and, in many respects, proved even more complex than Pagani’s traditional V12‑powered machines.
Why the Project Was Abandoned
According to Pagani, the team worked on the electric version up until 2022. “It was a far tougher challenge than a conventional combustion‑engine car, and we invested more time in the electric prototype than in the internal‑combustion version,” he explained. Despite years of research, the project never moved beyond the planning stage because the market simply wasn’t interested.
“No one showed genuine enthusiasm for the idea,” Horacio said. “I would have loved to see it become a reality, but we can’t continue investing in a venture that doesn’t attract buyers.” As a boutique manufacturer, Pagani admits it cannot chase projects that fail to deliver results.
Pagani’s Commitment to the V12 Soul
For many years the Italian marque has worried that an all‑electric model would be too heavy, compromising the brand’s core identity. Simulations suggested an electric Pagani could weigh several hundred kilograms more than a V12‑powered counterpart such as the Mercedes‑AMG variant.
Consequently, Pagani remains loyal to its 6.0‑litre twin‑turbo V12, which the founder describes as the “heart” of the brand. The sensory experience of the engine roar, the tactile feedback, and the pure mechanical feel are still regarded as irreplaceable by the company’s clientele.
Pagani’s View on the EV Wave
Horacio Pagani sees the current electric‑vehicle debate as increasingly ideological, especially as Europe pushes for an internal‑combustion ban by 2035. He warns that a rapid, forced shift to electrics could place undue pressure on the traditional automotive sector, noting that many countries still rely heavily on fossil‑fuel‑derived electricity.
Nevertheless, Pagani does not dismiss EVs outright. He praised projects like the Pininfarina Battista for achieving impressive performance. In his words, a fully electric Pagani could be part of the future—provided it meets customer expectations and preserves the brand’s emotional DNA.
For now, the V12 remains the centerpiece of every Pagani design, while the company continues to blend exhilarating driving experiences with cutting‑edge technology.