Lancia's model explosion

Lancia is planning to build its range up to five models, adding a coupé and an SUV by 2012 as part of a bid to restore annual sales volume to around 300,000 cars a year from today’s 120,000. The plan is being overseen by brand boss Olivier François but has yet to be fully approved by Fiat Group chief Sergio Marchionne.>> Read about the new Abarth CoupeThe project builds on progress made with the new Bravo-based Lancia Delta, launched recently in mainland Europe and due in the UK as a right-hand-drive model in summer next year.If François’ plan is approved, the range will eventually comprise three mainstream models — Ypsilon, the Delta and a Fiat Punto-based supermini between them — plus a coupé (codenamed Fulvietta) that reprises the look of the new Fulvia concept shown in Frankfurt in 2003, and a Bravo-based SUV crossover. Despite recent anti-SUV sentiment, François believes that reliable demand will continue for smaller, lighter four-wheel-drive models.Like the Delta, whose generous proportions straddle the C and D segments, the new Ypsilon (A/B) and new supermini (B/C) will also link two classes, offering unusually large cabins as part of their luxury packages. Lancia will also use avant garde design and plush specifications to attract customers, leaving high performance and sportiness to Alfa Romeo.Before the current sales slump, Lancia was targeting 150,000 sales in ’08, heading for 180,000 next year and reaching 300,000 (with the help of new models) soon after 2010. Now it may take longer to achieve its goals.