Interview Lancia CEO Luca Napolitano: “Our history inspires us, but our focus is on tomorrow”
Why did you choose the Netherlands as one of the first markets outside Italy?
“The Netherlands has a strong affinity for Italian lifestyle and design. That was an important factor in our choice. We wanted to start in markets where our Italian identity and products are most appreciated.”
What is currently the largest market for Lancia?
“That’s still Italy. Outside Italy, we have just started in four markets: Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain and France. We deliberately took this phased approach. Lancia is not a mainstream brand; we focus on quality and incremental growth. If things go well in these markets, we will expand further.”
How does the new Ypsilon perform compared to the previous generation?
“It’s hard to compare because the new Ypsilon is a completely different product. It is a bigger car with hybrid and electric powertrains, automatic transmission and much more technology, such as more than 20-inch screens in the interior. Our mission is to position ourselves in the premium segment, a step up from where we were before. The first figures are promising: in Italy we have secured 10,000 orders in recent months, while the old Ypsilon is still available.”
Lancia has a rich history with iconic sports models such as the Stratos and the Delta Integrale. Will we see that sporty DNA in the new models?
“Absolutely. Lancia has two souls: the elegant, classic Italian cars like the Aurelia and Flaminia and the radical sports models like the Delta and 037. We draw a lot of inspiration from our history, but our focus is also on the future. Each of our new models – the Ypsilon, Gamma and Delta – will have a sporty HF version. The Ypsilon HF will come in 2025, with 280 hp and a 0-100 km/h time of 5.7 seconds. The new Gamma will get an HF Integral version with all-wheel drive. For the Delta HF we are still dreaming, but we are working on it.”
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How important is it that the new Gamma is produced in Italy?
“That’s essential. The new Gamma will be built at the Melfi plant, a location known for its high quality standards. We recently decided to add a hybrid powertrain in addition to the all-electric version. This is a strategic choice, as the all-electric car market has become more challenging than a few years ago. This flexibility is a strength of Stellantis.”
What are Lancia’s main competitors in the B-segment?
“We are targeting premium competitors like the Mini and Audi A1. Although we are not yet fully in the premium segment, we are working hard to make that move. The Ypsilon also competes with models such as the Toyota Yaris and Volkswagen Polo. It’s a challenging market, but we are seeing strong interest from customers switching from these brands.”
What are you currently driving yourself?
“I drive an electric Ypsilon. It’s a great car, with instant power and a comfortable ride. Charging is simple; I park my car, go for a run, and when I return the battery is full. It proves how easy it is to drive electric.”
Lancia has a rich history of legendary models. Are you also considering restomod projects or one-offs?
“That is certainly something we are considering. It’s not at the top of our priority list – our focus right now is on the success of the current models and preparing for new launches. But in the future, a one-off or a small series of special models would certainly be possible. Lancia has the history and heritage to do that.”
Also see: ALL HIGHLIGHTS – Brussels Motor Show 2025 – Brussels Motor Show – AutoRAI TV