Lamborghini, forty-five years old in 2008 and based in the small Italian town of Sant'Agata Bologenese, is a unit of Audi, the premium brand of Germany's Volkswagen AG. Lamborghini sold a record 2,087 cars in 2006; its revenues grew 43% to 346.3 million euros, and its gross profit more than quadrupled to 18.1 million euros ($23.84 million).

Sales climbed to 2,406 in 2007.

Chief Executive Stephan Winkelmann aims to increase unit sales in a controlled fashion, by between 5 and 10% per year.


At Geneva 2008, Lamborghini unveils the Gallardo LP560-4, the first revision of the Gallardo since 2003. Improved efficiency is achieved by lessening friction between mechanized gears, and by improving the power-to-weight ratio and engine design, drawing on technology from Volkswagen AG, which acquired Lamborghini in 1998. 44 pounds lighter than its predecessor, it is also faster, while emitting 18% less CO₂. Fuel economy has increased from 14 mpg to 17.

The new Gallardo still emits 325 grams of CO₂ per kilometer, versus an average for 150-200 grams for a more typical car. Yet Winkelmann reminds us that this is offset by the fact that the average Lamborghini is driven 3,100 miles per year.