Lamborghini's Road Ahead: A Hypercar Dream Deferred

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Lamborghini's Road Ahead: A Hypercar Dream Deferred - Image for illustration purposes only
12-01-2024topgear

Lamborghini's Strategic Dilemma

In a recent chat with TopGear.com, Lamborghini's CEO Stephan Winkelmann discussed the brand's vision and strategy after a hugely profitable year.

Hypercar Ambitions

TopGear noted that Lamborghini isn't frequently mentioned in the hypercar 'Holy Trinity.' Stephan Winkelmann admitted:

- The company has consistently focused on their 'base' supercars.
- Lamborghini expanded with the Urus SUV and is set to release the fourth model, the Lanzador.
- Although a hypercar would elevate Lamborghini's lineup, strategic investments are approached cautiously due to past sales challenges.

Broadening Horizons

Currently, Lamborghini offers the Revuelto and Temerario, along with the Urus SUV and the upcoming Lanzador EV. Winkelmann emphasized:

- The brand isn’t confined to just supercars—they’ve historically produced diverse models.
- There's no plan to expand below the Urus, as that could affect the brand's prestige.
- There are opportunities in high-price, exclusive segments like hypercars or niche non-homologated vehicles, similar to the Essenza project.

No Four-Door Fan Club

Regarding potential four-door models like a super-saloon, Winkelmann mentioned:

- The Lanzador is designed as a two-door 2+2 concept.
- The brand is committed to driver-focused cars, not chauffeur-driven limousines.

Independent Innovation

On the subject of platform sharing with the Volkswagen Group, Winkelmann confirmed:

- There are no current plans to share the Temerario's unique platform or V8 engine.
- Thanks to strategic investments, Lamborghini's financial stability now supports ventures into unique technologies.

Economic Safety Nets

TopGear compared Porsche's strategy of using SUV profits to fund sports cars with Lamborghini's use of Urus profits. Winkelmann explained:

- The Urus has created financial stability, allowing Lamborghini to move beyond a limited model lineup.
- This SUV segment's capacity for higher volumes supports the brand’s continued success in the supercar industry.

Summary

While Lamborghini dreams of joining the elite hypercar circle, it remains focused on its current model strategy. The expansion with the Urus SUV has been crucial for financial stability, enabling Lamborghini to keep innovating within the supercar realm and maintain their exceptional brand value.

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