And two new models before that.
The Italian automaker Lancia is known for building some of the coolest (and prettiest) cars of all time, such as the Fulvia, Delta Integrale, Stratos, and the 037. Sadly, Lancia has been a shell of its former self in recent years, only selling the Ypsilon, a small hatchback who’s only close relative that’s sold in the US is the Fiat 500X. In a 2021 interview, Lancia’s new CEO Luca Napolitano claimed the historic brand would have a renaissance, culminating in a full shift to electric vehicles by 2026.
The details of that shift were recently presented in a ten-year strategic plan. This plan includes three new models, one every two years, starting in 2024 with a next-generation all-electric Ypsilon. We assume the Ypsilon will be related to the Fiat 500 EV that’s sold in Europe, which produces 116 horsepower and can travel 199 miles on a charge. This will be a pretty small vehicle measuring just four meters (157.48 inches). For reference, a Hyundai Veloster is 166.9 inches.
Two years later in 2026, Lancia will launch a new flagship model measuring 4.6 meters (181 inches), which is about the same length as a Toyota RAV4. This model is expected to be a crossover bringing back the name Aurelia for the first time since 1958. Finally, in 2028, Lancia will bring back the legendary Delta nameplate. As a reminder, the Delta was a boxy hatchback that eventually spawned one of the best hot hatches of all time, the Integrale Evoluzione. Like the other two models, the Delta will be all-electric.
“Today is an important day,” said Napolitano. “Lancia is now ready for Europe, taking a first step to become a credible and respected brand in the premium segment. Our ten-year plan, approved last September, is now taking shape, step by step. We are the Italian Elegance brand and this is our Renaissance. Innovation and timeless Design have always been our core values and to these we want to add sustainability, customer centricity and responsibility, because we look to the future with great ambition.”
In terms of technology, these cars will get something called a Sound Air Light Augmented, or SALA for short (sala in Italian means living room). Lancia explains SALA will be a “minimalist and intelligent virtual interface” that controls the audio, climate, and lighting with just one button. Sounds interesting.
Lancia says these three new products will help it cover 50% of the European market, helping the Stellantis group meet its goals for the premium and luxury cluster. Sadly, we doubt any of these models will make their way to US shores. In addition to becoming an EV brand, Lancia promises that 50% of the touchable interior surfaces will be made from eco-sustainable materials. These cabins will exude “typical Italian elegance style” with DNA from past vehicles like the Gamma, Thema, and Flavia.
