In a surprise move, Audi AG recently made the announcement that the motorcycle manufacture, Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A., is now under their control. To be “completed as quickly as possible”, the buyout was done in favor of both parties and should benefit them greatly. Not only will the small, Italian motorbike maker be in the extremely protective hands of one of the largest automakers in the world, Audi is looking to gain experience from Ducati’s small engine expertise. Given that the German manufacture already has a connection to Italian lunacy otherwise known as Lamborghini, the move begins to make more and more sense.
“Ducati is known worldwide as a premium brand among motorcycle manufacturers and has a long tradition of building sporty motorcycles. It has great expertise in high-performance engines and lightweight construction, and is one of the world’s most profitable motorcycle manufacturers. That makes Ducati an excellent fit for Audi,” said Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG. The carmaker put a heavy emphasis on Ducati’s engine building prowess, which makes us think their next line of subcompacts might be Italian driven. “We must use the opportunities offered by globalization for Audi – and that’s exactly what we’re doing. Everyone at Audi is looking forward to working with our new colleagues from Ducati,” said Peter Mosch, Chairman of the General Works Council of AUDI AG.
Source: Audi
