Audi’s Lamborghini And Ducati Tie-up Was All About The Emissions: Report

Audi confirmed its successful takeover of Ducati in April, leading many to question the strategy behind a seemingly bizarre acquisition.

The purchase of Ducati was initially derided as a mere example of the Volkswagen Group’s thirst for brand acquisition.

However, the German car manufacturer has positioned Ducati under the stewardship of Lamborghini - itself an Audi subsidiary, according to a new report.

Motorcycle site Asphalt & Rubber has revealed the news, contained within Audi’s 2012 Interim Financial Report.

And while it would seem sensible, from a marketing angle, to pair the exotic Italian brands, A&R suggest that the strategy runs deeper still.

With the European Union working towards ever-tighter corporate average emissions regulations, supercar-exclusive (for now) brands like Lamborghini are being forced to consider drastic line-up changes in the name of emissions compliance.