MILAN, ITALY – Following the tradition of presenting its new motorcycles at the EICMA International Motorcycle Show in Milan, Ducati has now officially unveiled its complete 2013 range. The new models are set to capture the public’s attention at the EICMA 2012 event. The 77th edition of Milan’s International Motorcycle Show will pack the impressive Rho International Fair complex from November 15-18.
The presentation of the 2013 Ducati range took place at the Milano-Rho Fair Auditorium and provided an opportunity for the CEO of Ducati Motor Holding, Gabriele Del Torchio, to address the capacity audience. During the press conference, he explained the international market situation and the business success achieved by the Bologna-based manufacturer during 2012.
Despite the global market situation and economic difficulties, Ducati’s growth trend has continued, both in terms of market share and of production and sale volumes. This confirms the company’s secure position, underlined with the recent acquisition by the Audi Group, which subsequently further enhanced Ducati’s structure and organization, enabling it to face the future with a positive and confident attitude.
“Since 2007, we have only seen ‘red’ on the bodywork of our bikes,” said Del Torchio. “Ducati’s record turnover of 2011 looks set to increase 20 percent further by the close of 2012 with over 44,000 motorcycles registered. Our market share has also grown from 2.4 percent in 2006 to 5.2 percent in 2012, an equivalent of over 10 percent share in what we call the ‘Ducati Relevant Market’.
“Ducati has become even more global today, with approximately nine motorcycles out of every 10 produced in our Borgo Panigale factory in Bologna destined for foreign markets. The USA is currently our top market, achieving a consistent two-figure growth, while other geographical areas, such as the Far East and Latin America where we are investing major resources and reaping promising results, are still yet to reach their full potential.
“With the arrival of the new shareholders, Ducati is in stronger hands than ever, and being part of the Audi Group will definitely contribute to Ducati’s growth and expansion. This acquisition acknowledges the value of everyone who works in our company, the value of the Ducati brand, and of its past achievements.”
The Ducati Press Conference for the launch of the 2013 model range also provided an ideal occasion to present Ducati’s official racing program for 2013. Four Ducati riders have already been confirmed in MotoGP with Nicky Hayden and Andrea Dovizioso for the factory Ducati Team, and Ben Spies and Andrea Iannone for the satellite team. For World Superbike, the new Team Ducati Alstare was officially announced and, coordinated by the Belgian organization managed by Francis Batta, will field Carlos Checa and Ayrton Badovini aboard the new 1199 Panigale.
Claudio Domenicali, General Manager of Ducati Motor Holding, explained the details and features of the 2013 Ducati models. He focused in particular on the long-awaited new generation Hypermotard family, and underlined the major, strategic role of the 1199 Panigale supersport model and its world debut with the prestigious R version.
“Here at EICMA 2012 we present one totally new model and a series of significantly updated models in line with our strategic plan,” Domenicali said. “The Hypermotard is completely new. Technologically enhanced and presented in standard and SP versions, it has a brand new four-valve per cylinder, liquid-cooled, Testastretta 11° engine, equipped also with our new secondary air system. The new motorcycle maintains the spirit of the original Ducati Hypermotard, but widens its accessibility with a larger fuel tank and revised ergonomics.
“We also present the Hyperstrada, a model equipped with a series of features that extend the motorcycle’s use into the world of touring, while maintaining the fun-to-ride character typical of a supermotard.
“With our passion for racing and sport bikes, we just had to produce an ‘R’ version of the 1199 Panigale. The ‘R’ title represents Ducati’s maximum expression of technology. In this case, connecting rods in titanium in addition to many other lightweight components and a race kit that represents a package ideal from which to develop the Superbike version, which will race next year.
“We have also decided to extend the Diavel range with the introduction of the Diavel Strada. Equipped with luggage, large screen and revised, more upright riding position, the Diavel is now ready also to entertain riders on longer rides outside the city.”
–From Ducati
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