Lancia to go rallying (and electric)
- PostedPublished 28 September 2024
Lancia, the iconic Italian car-maker known for its rich rallying history, is making a significant return to motorsport with the introduction of the Ypsilon Rally 4 HF.

This marks the first factory-built Lancia rally car in 32 years and includes the brand’s legendary Martini livery as per the 037 and Delta Integrale models from the 80s and 90s.
Lancia CEO Luca Napolitano said: “Lancia has always been in people’s hearts, and that sporty heart is starting to beat again today!”

With an impressive track record of 15 WRC titles, three Constructors’ and Endurance World Championships, two Targa Florio wins, one 1000 Miglia victory, and a Carrera Panamericana trophy, Lancia remains the most successful brand in rallying.
Rally 4 HF
Unlike the forthcoming road-going electric Ypsilon HF, the Rally 4 HF will be powered by a heavily tuned 1.2-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged engine generating 158kW.

Developed to comply with FIA’s Group Rally4 regulations, the Rally4 HF channels power to the front wheels through a five-speed sequential gearbox and a mechanical limited-slip differential.
It shares its mechanical platform with the Rally4-spec Peugeot 208 and Vauxhall/Opel Corsa, all built on the Stellantis CMP platform, where, under Peugeot, it has a proven track record of reliability and success, earning countless class wins and championships.
Incorporating the iconic “LANCIA CORSE HF” logo, known for its association with racing cars, the Lancia Ypsilon Rally 4 stands out with its striking graphics, roof-mounted scoop, hood vents for enhanced engine cooling, and white multi-spoke alloy wheels in conjunction with rally-tuned suspension and brakes.

The Rally 4 maintains a motorsport-ready appearance reminiscent of the Ypsilon HF’s aggressive body kit while complying with regulations that require it to be primarily based on a production vehicle.
Established in 2019, Group Rally4 originated from the R2 class of Group R cars. Models such as the Ypsilon Rally 4 HF are situated in the second tier of the FIA’s rally specification pyramid.
This tier is defined by a power-to-weight ratio of 5.1kg/hp (6.84kg/kW) and is designed to support young and aspiring drivers in national and regional rally series, including the European Rally Championship; in contrast, Rally1 cars at the pinnacle of the WRC feature a ratio of 3.1kg/hp (4.15kg/kW).

While Lancia has not yet revealed a specific date for the Ypsilon’s rally debut, it is anticipated that it will coincide with the launch of the road-going Ypsilon model sometime in 2025.
Although pricing details are yet to be disclosed, a comparable Peugeot 208 Rally4 starts at €73,000 (A$120,000) before local taxes.
Ypsilon HF
Lancia’s upcoming road-going line-up will offer mild-hybrid and fully electric powertrains, with the Ypsilon HF serving as the brand’s electric performance flagship.

Set for release in Europe this summer, the Ypsilon HF is equipped with a 54kWh battery that drives a 177kW electric motor on the front axle, resulting in rapid acceleration from 0-100km/h in just 5.8 seconds, akin to the original Integrale HF EVO.
Featuring Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres, a wider track, and lowered suspension, the Ypsilon HF is designed to provide an exhilarating driving experience that stays true to Lancia’s performance heritage.

This move showcases Lancia’s dedication to innovation by embracing electric power, keeping pace with contemporary automotive trends while maintaining the spirit of performance that defines Lancia.
The marque also intends to expand the HF treatment, which stands for ‘High Fidelity’ and symbolises high-performance, to upcoming models such as the Gamma and Delta.

In spite of the fact that no official announcement has been made about the availability of the Lancia Ypsilon in Australia, the company has been actively working on creating right-hand-drive variants, with potential for a return to the Australian market since its departure in 1985.
- CategoriesIn SightGlass
- Tagselectric vehicles, EV, Lancia, motorsport, SightGlass News Issue 33, Stellantis