An almost forgotten brand, Lancia is now the focus of Stellantis’ chief design officer Jean-Pierre Ploué who will oversee the revival of the brand. Car Design News spoke to him about legacy, why he likes small teams and what makes Lancia unique
In June 2021, Stellantis announced that it’s chief design officer Jean-Pierre Ploué was to personally oversee the renaissance of the Lancia. It came as welcome news to most observers as the much-loved brand had slipped out of the limelight it held during its heyday in the 1980s with models like the Delta Integrale. Ploué, who is credited with restoring Citroën’s unique character, will have his work cut out, but Car Design News’ found the French designer in a confident mood.
Car Design News: Where does Lancia sit within the context of the great Italian brands?
Jean Pierre Ploue: Because of its legacy Lancia is a very special Italian brand – Vincenzo Lancia was always innovative. It began with sports and competition, but very quickly, it became a brand about design, purpose, and functionality. And always with a great deal of elegance.
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