Lamborghini CEO says tariffs are causing even the ultra-rich to pause purchases

Lamborghini CEO Warns: Tariffs Make Even Billionaires Think Twice

Even the ultra-rich are showing hesitation when it comes to buying Lamborghini supercars, as uncertainty over U.S. tariffs casts a shadow on the luxury automotive market.

The revelation came from Stephan Winkelmann, Lamborghiniโ€™s CEO, during an interview with CNBC.

Tariffs Shaking the Market

  • Currently, Lamborghini cars imported into the U.S. face a 27.5% tariff, making the already sky-high price tag climb even further.
  • Since most models start at $400,000, the extra cost adds tens of thousands of dollars to each purchase.
  • Although the White House recently announced a 15% tariff agreement on European cars, it hasnโ€™t yet gone into effect.

โ€œSome customers are waiting because they want to be sure this will be the final fare,โ€ Winkelmann explained. โ€œOthers are more relaxed, or we negotiate on a case-by-case basis.โ€

Lamborghini Pricing Outlook (2024)

Model2024 Price IncreaseKey Feature
Temerario (V8)+7%Hybrid performance engine
Urus (SUV)+7%Luxury SUV appeal, strong with women
Revuelto (V12)+10%Hybrid supercar with cutting-edge tech

Despite these challenges, Lamborghini remains well-positioned. Current deliveries are based on orders placed one to two years ago, ensuring short-term stability.

Record-Breaking Sales

  • In 2024, Lamborghini achieved โ‚ฌ3 billion in revenue and delivered 10,867 cars worldwide.
  • New hybrid models like the Temerario, Revuelto, and Urus SE boosted the brandโ€™s eco-performance lineup.
  • A new electric grand tourer is planned for 2028, though it may pivot to a hybrid due to the global slowdown in EV demand.

Lamborghiniโ€™s Vision for the Future

During Monterey Car Week, Lamborghini unveiled the Fenomeno, its most powerful supercar ever:

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  • 1,080 horsepower
  • 0โ€“100 km/h in just 2.4 seconds
  • Limited to 29 units worldwide

This โ€œfew-offsโ€ strategy emphasizes exclusivity, catering to the highest tier of customers.

Shifting Customer Base

The average age of Lamborghini buyers is evolving:

  • Under 45 globally
  • Under 30 in Asia
  • Rising interest among women buyers, largely driven by the Urus SUV

Initiatives like โ€œShe Drives a Lamboโ€ are helping expand the brandโ€™s reach to a broader audience.

Despite increasing wealth worldwide, Lamborghini remains committed to limited production to preserve its mystique.

โ€œWe will never saturate a single market. Our vision will always be global,โ€ Winkelmann affirmed.