Lancia revives the iconic HF acronym with the electric Ypsilon
Since the 1960s, the "HF" acronym, along with the "red elephant," has characterized the sportiest Lancias or competition cars. When the legendary Cesare Fiorio created "HF Squadra Corse" in 1963, Lancia Fulvias began winning rallies in the hands of drivers loyal to the brand... for more than 30 years. With its Fulvia, Stratos, O37, and Delta models, Scuderia Lancia won 10 World Manufacturers' Championships during that time.
Now, following the relaunch of the brand and (for now) with only one model in production—the third-generation Ypsilon —Lancia has returned to its sporting tradition and revived the "HF" logo. Many variants of the model already existed, from road-going versions with a 136 hp hybrid engine or a 156 hp battery-electric engine to those designed for Rally Cups (HF Racing and Rally4 HF), exclusively fuel-powered, with 145 hp and 212 hp respectively. But now the famous logo is applied to the most powerful version (280 hp) and its popular "replica" (110 hp).
Balocco, the test track for Lancia, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, and Maserati, is always a source of surprises due to the number of layout variations it offers. The Italian brand, part of the Stellantis group, wanted to showcase the virtues of its powerful new version by using three of them, especially the Langhe "mountain road" variant, which covers over 20 km. Acceleration, slalom, and rally tests were part of the program to get the most out of the new Ypsilon HF.
The 280 hp electric engine was already well known. It's no coincidence that it's used (or will soon be used) by the Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce, the e-600 Abarth, the e-Peugeot 208 GTi, and the Opel Mokka GSi, thanks to the synergies of the Stellantis Group. Mounted in the Ypsilon, it provides a good balance (it's lower than the SUVs and lighter) and has been fine-tuned with the collaboration of two-time World Rally Champion Miki Biasion.
The chassis has been lowered by two cm and the track has been widened by three cm; the suspension has been stiffened with new springs, shock absorbers, and much thicker stabilizers; Alcon has provided the powerful brake system, with four-cylinder calipers and 355 mm discs; and the Torsen limited-slip front differential hasn't been forgotten either. Wheels have been limited to 18 inches with 225-section tires (smaller than those of the Alfa Junior, for example). Each brand has done its own tuning, and it's curious how much they can vary in character with the same components...
The Ypsilon HF differs in its power delivery, which is smoother— for example—than the Alfa. And in the end, it runs just as fast: 180 km/h limit and 0-100 km/h in 5.6". It stands out for its poise in cornering and its ability to absorb irregularities (Biasion's advice is noticeable). However, the steering—although precise and agile—transmits nothing to the driver, who never feels the extent of the tires' grip. Of course, with Michelin Pilot 2 tires, the grip is enormous.
Another unique feature of the Ypsilon HF is the Torsen limited-slip differential, which "pulls" the steering when accelerating hard out of corners . It's worth remembering that the electric motor provides 345 Nm of torque. This torque transmits to the driver where the front wheels should point when the brakes are fully applied, providing spectacular and progressive traction. While enjoying the ride, the driver can choose three driving modes and use or not the "Brake" system to assist in traffic jams (very useful on twisty roads).
With a certified range of 370 km (we suspect considerably less if you squeeze all the horsepower out of it), the Ypsilon HF is a toy for lovers of sporty driving, even though the car doesn't make a sound. You can hear the squeal of the tires, smell the brake smoke, but there's no roar ... In return, it can also be used every day in urban areas. And it's also discreet: although it has specific bumpers and enlarged wheel arches, it lacks aerodynamic accessories and strident decorations.
From 42,100 eurosOn sale after the summer, the new 280 hp Ypsilon HF will cost from €42,100, with specific equipment and available in four colors (with two optional roof shades). This is priced above the existing non-HF hybrid or electric versions (€23,000 and €33,000, respectively) and separates the two rally variants —the 145 hp HF Racing and the 212 hp Rally4 HF—equipped for competition, starting at €38,900.
But Lancia has also thought about its younger audience, who are looking for looks, if not performance. To this end, it has created the Ypsilon HF Line, with specific body elements, 17" wheels, a sporty interior, and a hybrid engine with just 110 hp. On sale from €27,200, it offers a good compromise between an attractive city car. We were also able to test it on Italian roads, and it's truly impressive.
110 HP HF Line versionEquipped with an automatic transmission with paddle shifters, it's possible to get acceptable sporty performance out of it. It lacks sophisticated features like a limited-slip differential or firm suspension, but it handles happily on the road , has a magnificent "HF" presence, and looks like a future best-seller among affluent young people.
The Lancia range will expand next year with the launch of the new Gamma (a 4.7-meter C-segment model ) sharing the Stellantis platform with the DS. It will be assembled at the traditional Melfi factory and will revive the "Integrale" name (famous for the Delta rally champions of the 1980s) in its 4x4 version with two engines.
elmundo
