This Electric Hot Hatch is the Comeback Lancia Fans Have Been Waiting For

In a surprising twist to the automotive world, Stellantis has revived Lancia from the brink with the all-new 2024 Ypsilon HF. For decades, the iconic Italian brand was dormant, but thanks to Stellantis' merger of FCA and PSA, Lancia is back with a vengeance. The Ypsilon HF marks a significant pivot for the brand, sending enthusiasts into a frenzy.

High-Fidelity Legacy: The New HF

Legendary for their high-performance vehicles in the 60s and 70s, the HF badge on a Lancia has always meant serious business. This time, however, we're not talking about a conventional combustion engine model. The Ypsilon HF is purely electric, but it doesn't skimp on performance. With a front-mounted motor packing 237 horsepower, it's on par with fellow Stellantis siblings like the Abarth 600e and Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce.

This new hot hatch sits on the Common Modular Platform (CMP), which it shares with numerous other Stellantis vehicles, including the European market Jeep Avenger. A 54-kWh battery, borrowed from the Alfa and Abarth models, ensures the Ypsilon HF not only sprints from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.8 seconds but does so with the eco-friendly flair of an electric motor.

Performance Meets Practicality

Lancia hasn't just dumped power into this compact hatchback; they've given it a full-fledged hot hatch makeover. A wider track and lowered suspension mean better grip and sharper handling, making the Ypsilon HF as nimble as it is quick. Built for enthusiasts, it promises to whisk drivers away with engaging dynamics and high-octane thrills.

A Glimpse into the Future

While today's debut is a thrilling teaser, Lancia fans will have to wait just a bit longer to get their hands on the Ypsilon HF. It's set to hit European roads in May 2025. But that's not all – Stellantis promises the High-Fidelity treatment will extend to future models, including the much-anticipated revivals of the Gamma and Delta later this decade. So, the little elephant isn’t just a nod to the past; it’s a firm step into the future of Lancia.

Rally Roots: The Ypsilon Rally 4 HF

Lancia's rallying pedigree is the stuff of legend, and the Ypsilon Rally 4 HF aims to keep that heritage alive. Unlike its electric counterpart, this rally car is powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, delivering 209 hp. Compliant with FIA's Group Rally4 regulations, it's designed to conquer the rally stages, bringing Lancia back to its motorsport glory.

With a five-speed gearbox and a mechanical limited-slip differential, the Ypsilon Rally 4 HF remains front-wheel drive, closely resembling the road car due to regulatory requirements. This rally variant marks Lancia's return to competitive racing, promising excitement and accolades in equal measure.

Iconic Heritage

The HF badge dates back to the 1960s, symbolizing High-Fidelity and top-tier performance. Originally appearing on the Fulvia Coupe HF, it has since graced legendary models like the Stratos HF and Delta HF Integrale Evolution. A creation of Gianni Lancia, the logo featuring a prancing elephant has remained a talismanic symbol for the brand, blending history with modernity in the new Ypsilon HF.

The 2024 Lancia Ypsilon HF isn't just a car; it's a statement. It marks the return of a beloved brand and sets the stage for a future where performance and sustainability go hand in hand. For enthusiasts and newcomers alike, the Ypsilon HF is a thrilling start to Lancia's electrifying new chapter.