Update: ‘To be based on the 500e or the eCMP platform?’ updated and ‘Lancia Ypsilon EV interior’ section added.
After remaining a niche brand, put on ice during the FCA years, there’s a renewed focus on expanding the role of Lancia under Stellantis’ ownership. A number of new Lancia models are in the works for the decade, but the renewal of the staple Ypsilon is a high priority. New details about the next-gen Lancia Ypsilon are now available.
To be based on the 500e or the eCMP platform?
Stellantis plans to offer the all-new Ypsilon in a zero-emission BEV variant and a more affordable and widely accepted ICE variant. According to a report from Automotive News Europe, the next-gen Ypsilon’s ICE variant will feature 48-volt mild-hybrid technology. In other words, the Ypsilon will have electrification across the range. Stellantis Chief Design Officer Jean-Pierre Ploue will personally oversee Lancia design from Torino Centro Stile.
If not the eCMP, another possibility is that the Ypsilon EV could sit on the same platform as the 500e. Luca Napolitano, CEO, Lancia, said in an interview with Quattroruote (via Passione Auto Italiane) recently that the company needs a car that is no longer than 4 metres. For reference, the all-new 500e measures 3.6 metres in length.
Lancia Ypsilon EV interior
The Lancia Ypsilon EV’s interior should be modernized and a significant upgrade in terms of comfort and convenience. It’s safe to assume that there’ll be new electronics, including a fully digital instrument cluster, a new touchscreen infotainment system, and a compact climate control panel. Expect a less utilitarian and more chic styling for the steering wheel and an overall sleeker dashboard.
Napolitano talked about the interior of the new Ypsilon in the interview to the Italian publication. He said that the new model’s cabin will be inspired by the world of furniture, “cocooning,” and “effortless.”
Lancia to relaunch in the UK; Australia under consideration
Currently, Lancia serves just one market, with the single model – Italy, where it stretched its lead further in 2021. With 43,735 registrations, up by almost 2% compared to 2020, the Ypsilon is Italy’s best-selling car in its category, as well as the second best-selling car in the market.
Napolitano told Automotive News Europe that Lancia cars will be available in Germany, France, Austria, and Belgium as well in 2024. The UK will join the list of new Lancia markets at a later date. With no less than five potential new markets, the next-gen Ypsilon will have much wider availability in Europe compared to the current-gen model.
Lancia is targeting 25-30% of sales to come from its foreign markets initially, Napolitano told Reuters in an interview. This number could increase to 50% later, as per the report. Further, Napolitano revealed that markets outside Europe are also on the radar. “However, in the coming year, if things go well, why not trying to bring (Lancia cars with) right-hand drive also in Japan, South Africa, or Australia?” the brand CEO said.
Following the Ypsilon EV, Lancia will introduce an electric crossover (Lancia Aurelia) and a hatchback (Lancia Delta) during the second half of this decade.
Featured Image Source: Stellantis