Lancia, the iconic Italian brand, has officially marked its return to rallying with an exclusive test of the new Ypsilon Rally4 HF at the Stellantis Proving Ground in Balocco. Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis, personally took the wheel of the high-performance rally car on one of the world’s most prestigious automotive development circuits.
The Balocco complex, located in the Vercelli province, spans over 80 kilometres of tracks, serving as a centre of excellence for high-performance automotive testing.
“Seeing Carlos Tavares driving the Ypsilon Rally4 HF was extraordinary,” remarked Luca Napolitano, CEO of Lancia. “The 212-hp turbocharged engine and the car’s precise engineering are the result of our team’s passion. The Ypsilon Rally4 HF combines ambition with humility, reflecting our commitment to the Rally4 class, the heart of competition. It’s just the beginning of an exciting journey. Stay tuned on October 24-25 for more updates!”
The Ypsilon Rally4 HF, first unveiled in May, is built for motorsport competition. Powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 212 hp, the car is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission and a mechanical limited-slip differential. Its front-wheel-drive layout ensures maximum agility, making it an ideal entry-level vehicle for young drivers aspiring to break into the racing world.
Alongside the Rally4 HF, Lancia also introduced the Ypsilon HF, a high-performance road version of the brand’s first vehicle in its new era. The Ypsilon HF is powered by a 100% electric engine delivering an impressive 280 hp, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.8 seconds. With a lowered chassis and widened track, the design pays homage to Lancia’s rich motorsport history while setting a new benchmark for electric performance.
Lancia’s return to motorsport will become official in 2025, with the brand aiming to reestablish itself in contemporary automotive competitions. Combining tradition with innovation, Lancia is looking to the future with passion and ambition, determined to carve out its place once again in the rally world.
Lancia Ypsilon: A Version for Every Driver
Lancia’s current Ypsilon range offers a diverse selection of models to suit different styles and preferences. The New Lancia Ypsilon is a stylish and versatile option, particularly appealing to younger drivers. The New Lancia Ypsilon LX offers a complete setup, ideal for those seeking maximum equipment and features. Meanwhile, the New Lancia Ypsilon Edizione Limitata Cassina is a luxurious option, providing interiors inspired by the comfort of home.
Both hybrid and 100% electric versions are available across the Ypsilon range, offering a perfect blend of performance, efficiency, and sustainability. The hybrid version features a 1.2-litre engine with 48V technology, while the electric model offers a range of up to 403 km with fast-charging capabilities, ensuring a cutting-edge driving experience.
As Lancia enters a new chapter, it continues to honour its heritage while embracing the future of sustainable, high-performance mobility.
