Episode 222: Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann
About this episode
Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Lamborghini, discusses the brand's evolution and future during the prestigious Pebble Beach event. He reflects on Lamborghini's journey from traditional supercars to hybrid models, emphasizing the balance between performance and sustainability. Winkelmann shares insights on the brand's design philosophy, the success of the Urus SUV, and the importance of maintaining Lamborghini's rebellious spirit. With a focus on innovation, he reveals plans for future models and the significance of customer relationships in shaping the brand's legacy.
Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann
electrified future
"...to showcase its present and to provide a glimpse into the bold, electrified future that lies ahead."
The 'electrified future' means that car companies are moving towards making more electric cars. This is to help the environment and use less gas.
The term 'electrified future' refers to the automotive industry's shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid technologies. This transition aims to reduce emissions and reliance on fossil fuels while enhancing performance and efficiency.
hybrid technology
"Under the leadership of Stefan Winckelman, Lamborghini continues to balance tradition with innovation, combining legendary V12 performance with cutting edge hybrid technology and a clear pathway to electrification one day."
Hybrid technology means a car uses both a regular engine and an electric motor. This helps the car use less fuel and produce less pollution while still being fast.
Hybrid technology in vehicles refers to the use of both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions while maintaining performance.
V12 performance
"Under the leadership of Stefan Winckelman, Lamborghini continues to balance tradition with innovation, combining legendary V12 performance with cutting edge hybrid technology and a clear pathway to electrification one day."
V12 performance means how well a car with a V12 engine performs. A V12 engine has twelve cylinders, making it very powerful and smooth when driving.
V12 performance refers to the power and capabilities of a vehicle equipped with a V12 engine, which has twelve cylinders arranged in a V configuration. This engine type is known for delivering high horsepower and smooth operation.
electrification
"Under the leadership of Stefan Winckelman, Lamborghini continues to balance tradition with innovation, combining legendary V12 performance with cutting edge hybrid technology and a clear pathway to electrification one day."
Electrification means using electricity to power cars. This can be in cars that are fully electric or in hybrid cars that use both electricity and gas.
Electrification refers to the process of incorporating electric power into vehicles, which can include fully electric vehicles or hybrids that use both electric and gasoline power.
supersports cars
"From new product debuts to the boldness of hybrid supersports cars, Lamborghini is rewriting what it means to be both emotional and sustainable in a changing industry."
Supersports cars are very fast and powerful cars that are built for top performance. They often have the latest technology and are made with high-quality materials.
Supersports cars are high-performance vehicles that offer exceptional speed, handling, and technology, often featuring advanced engineering and luxury materials.
Pebble Beach
"What a pleasure to be here in this beautiful setting with you, Stefan. Congratulations on another Pebble Beach and another Quail."
Pebble Beach is a famous car show in California where people display and admire beautiful and rare cars. It's a big event for car lovers and collectors.
Pebble Beach is a prestigious annual car show held in California, showcasing classic and luxury automobiles. It attracts car enthusiasts, collectors, and manufacturers from around the world, making it a significant event in the automotive calendar.
Quail Lodge
"What is it like for you to be back here enjoying this beautiful time and these beautiful places and of course a big launch too?"
Quail Lodge is a fancy hotel in California where a special car show takes place. It's part of the Monterey Car Week and features many beautiful cars.
Quail Lodge is a luxury resort in California that hosts automotive events, including a prestigious car show during Monterey Car Week. It is known for its exclusive atmosphere and high-end vehicles.
Monterey Car Week
"I think for me it's the 20th year that I'm coming to Pebble Beach, the Monterrey Car Week and the Quail Lodge."
Monterey Car Week is a week-long celebration of cars in California, featuring various events where people can see and buy amazing cars. It's a big deal for car fans.
Monterey Car Week is an annual event in California that includes a series of automotive events, car shows, and auctions, culminating in the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. It is a key gathering for car enthusiasts and collectors.
world premieres
"in terms of customer relation, press contact and also environment and therefore at the Quail in the last years we always had world premieres"
World premieres are when a new car is shown to the public for the first time. It's exciting for car companies and fans to see what's new.
World premieres refer to the first public display of a new vehicle model, often at major automotive events. These unveilings are significant for manufacturers as they showcase innovation and attract media attention.
vehicle unveiling
"So today when we were at the Quail we had this unveiling and again I think we were the talk of the day."
A vehicle unveiling is when a new car is shown to everyone for the first time. It's a way for car companies to get people excited about their new models.
A vehicle unveiling is an event where a new car model is presented to the public, often accompanied by media coverage and marketing efforts. It serves to generate excitement and interest in the new model.
fuel-off vehicles
"...this falls in the tradition of many other fuel off, so-called fuel off vehicles. Tell me how important it is for the brand..."
Fuel-off vehicles are special cars made in small numbers, often very expensive and unique. They are designed to stand out and attract collectors.
Fuel-off vehicles refer to high-performance or luxury cars that are often produced in limited quantities, emphasizing exclusivity and unique design features. They are typically aimed at collectors and enthusiasts.
Lamborghini Reventon
"...ed with the fuel off almost 20 years ago with the Reventon. At that time we had two models, now the Gallardo..."
The Lamborghini Reventon is a very special sports car that was made in small numbers and is famous for its cool, sharp looks and fast speed. It's a car that many people dream of owning because it's rare and powerful.
The Lamborghini Reventon is a limited-production supercar that was introduced in 2007, known for its striking angular design and high-performance capabilities. With only 20 units produced, it represents the pinnacle of Lamborghini's engineering and exclusivity, making it a significant model in the brand's history.
Lamborghini Reventón
"...we started with the fuel off almost 20 years ago with the Reventon. At that time we had two models, now the Gallardo and the Murcielago..."
The Lamborghini Reventón is a very rare and expensive sports car that was made by Lamborghini. Only a few were built, making it special and sought after by collectors.
The Lamborghini Reventón is a limited-edition supercar known for its striking design and high performance. It was introduced in 2007 and is one of the most exclusive models from Lamborghini, with only 20 units produced.
Lamborghini Murciélago
"...now the Gallardo and the Murcielago and we had a discussion with our engineers..."
The Lamborghini Murciélago is a high-performance sports car made by Lamborghini. It's known for its powerful engine and unique design, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The Lamborghini Murciélago is a flagship supercar produced from 2001 to 2010. It features a V12 engine and is known for its aggressive styling and performance capabilities.
Lamborghini Murcielago
"...we had two models, now the Gallardo and the Murcielago and we had a discussion with our engineers..."
The Lamborghini Gallardo is a popular sports car made by Lamborghini. It has a powerful engine and is designed for high performance on the road.
The Lamborghini Gallardo is one of Lamborghini's most successful models, produced from 2003 to 2013. It is known for its V10 engine and sharp handling, appealing to both enthusiasts and casual drivers.
Lamborghini Gallardo
"...Reventon. At that time we had two models, now the Gallardo and the Murcielago and we had a discussion with o..."
technical innovation
"...it's about design, performance and technical innovation..."
Technical innovation means coming up with new ideas and technologies that make things work better. In cars, this could mean better engines, safer designs, or more efficient ways to use fuel.
Technical innovation refers to the introduction of new technologies or methods that improve performance, efficiency, or functionality. In the automotive context, it often involves advancements in engineering, materials, and design.
dream car
"...you never buy mobility when you drive a Lamborghini but you buy a dream car"
A dream car is a car that someone really wants to own, often because it's very special, fast, or beautiful. For many people, a Lamborghini is considered a dream car.
A 'dream car' refers to a vehicle that someone aspires to own, often due to its performance, design, or status. For many, owning a Lamborghini represents achieving a personal dream or aspiration in the automotive world.
uncompromising extreme
"...for at least one decade Lamborghini is uncompromising extreme and Italian..."
'Uncompromising extreme' means that Lamborghini makes cars that are very powerful and stylish without cutting any corners. They focus on being the best in performance and design.
The phrase 'uncompromising extreme' describes Lamborghini's brand philosophy, emphasizing their commitment to high performance, bold design, and luxury without compromise. This reflects their approach to creating cars that push the limits of engineering and aesthetics.
Lamborghini Urus
"we were also when we started to work on the third model, the Urus we wanted to be more open so we had to change the approach"
The Lamborghini Urus is a fancy SUV made by Lamborghini. It has a strong engine and looks very stylish, making it popular among luxury car buyers.
The Lamborghini Urus is a luxury SUV that combines the performance of a sports car with the practicality of an SUV. It features a powerful twin-turbo V8 engine and is known for its distinctive design and high-end interior.
hybridization
"we moved from internal combustion engines only into hybridization so it's really something which is on a constant move"
Hybridization is when a car uses both a traditional gasoline engine and an electric motor. This helps the car use less fuel and produce fewer emissions, making it better for the environment.
Hybridization refers to the process of combining internal combustion engines with electric propulsion systems to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. This technology is becoming increasingly common in modern vehicles as manufacturers adapt to environmental regulations.
Lamborghini LM002
"...but we also did cars like the LM002...so back in the 70s beginning of the 80s there was this first SUV..."
The Lamborghini LM002 is a luxury SUV made by Lamborghini in the 1980s. It was one of the first SUVs to be made by a company known for sports cars, and it had a very powerful engine.
The Lamborghini LM002 was an early luxury SUV produced by Lamborghini in the late 1980s. It was known for its powerful V12 engine and unique design, making it a rare and exclusive vehicle.
luxury SUV
"...which was a very exclusive car which was done by Lamborghini..."
A luxury SUV is a fancy type of vehicle that can drive off-road but also has a lot of comfortable and high-quality features. They're usually more expensive and made for people who want both style and performance.
A luxury SUV is a high-end sport utility vehicle that combines off-road capability with premium features and comfort. These vehicles are often designed for both performance and luxury, appealing to affluent buyers.
plug-in hybrid
"...the follow-up of the Urus is going to be again a plug-in hybrid car..."
A plug-in hybrid is a car that can run on electricity and gas. You can charge it by plugging it in, so it can drive a long way on just electricity before using gas.
A plug-in hybrid is a type of hybrid vehicle that can be charged from an external power source, allowing it to drive longer distances on electric power alone before switching to its gasoline engine. This offers the benefits of electric driving while retaining the flexibility of a traditional engine.
Ford Model Four
"...d here we have not taken a decision so far so the model four is still on there are various things under consid..."
The Ford Model T is an old car that was made a long time ago, and it was one of the first cars that regular people could buy. It changed how cars were made and helped many families own a car for the first time.
The Ford Model T, produced from 1908 to 1927, is often regarded as the first affordable automobile, making car ownership accessible to the masses. Its introduction revolutionized the automotive industry and paved the way for modern assembly line production techniques.
Gran Turismo
"...everybody has a Gran Turismo or GT car and this we had in the past and this is missing today..."
Gran Turismo, or GT, is a type of car that's made for fast driving over long distances. They are usually comfortable and luxurious, making them great for road trips.
Gran Turismo, often abbreviated as GT, refers to a category of high-performance cars designed for long-distance driving and comfort, usually with a focus on luxury and speed. These cars often combine sporty handling with a more refined interior than typical sports cars.
Lamborghini Countach
"if you come from the Countach and you see the Ruelto"
The Lamborghini Countach is a famous sports car that looks very unique and has doors that open upwards. It's a classic car that many people admire.
The Lamborghini Countach is a legendary supercar known for its iconic design and performance. It was produced from the early 1970s to the late 1990s and is often celebrated for its sharp angles and scissor doors.
Lamborghini Revuelto
"if you come from the Countach and you see the Ruelto"
The Lamborghini Revuelto is a new sports car from Lamborghini that has a lot of power and a stylish design. It's part of the same family as the Countach, which is a classic car.
The Lamborghini Revuelto is a modern supercar that continues the brand's legacy of high-performance vehicles. It features advanced technology and design elements that pay homage to its predecessors like the Countach.
scissor doors
"the scissor doors the fact that you have this tense line"
Scissor doors are special car doors that open up instead of sideways. They make the car look cool and are often found on sports cars.
Scissor doors are a type of car door that hinges at the front and opens upwards, resembling the wings of a bird. This design is often associated with high-performance sports cars and adds to their dramatic appearance.
Lamborghini Aventador
"...for me personally for sure the first car I followed from scratch is the Aventador ok"
The Lamborghini Aventador is a very fast and expensive sports car made by Lamborghini. It has a unique look and a powerful engine that makes it one of the most exciting cars to drive.
The Lamborghini Aventador is a high-performance supercar known for its striking design and powerful V12 engine. It represents the pinnacle of Lamborghini's engineering and design philosophy.
hypercar
"...it was almost a hypercar the price of a supercar..."
A hypercar is one of the fastest and most expensive types of cars. These cars have amazing technology and performance, making them very special and rare.
A hypercar is a classification of high-performance vehicles that are at the top of the automotive performance spectrum, often featuring advanced technology, extreme speed, and a very high price tag. They are typically more powerful and exclusive than supercars.
supercar
"...the price of a supercar so it was an incredible car..."
A supercar is a very fast and powerful sports car. These cars are designed for high performance and are usually more expensive than regular cars.
A supercar is a high-performance sports car that offers exceptional speed, handling, and design. Supercars are typically more powerful and exclusive than regular sports cars, often featuring advanced engineering and technology.
Nürburgring
"do you prefer the Nürburgring or the Amalfi Coast depends on the season"
The Nürburgring is a well-known race track in Germany where many cars are tested and raced. It's famous for being very difficult and is loved by car enthusiasts.
The Nürburgring is a famous motorsport complex in Germany, known for its challenging racetrack, the Nordschleife. It's often used for testing and racing by manufacturers and enthusiasts alike.
Amalfi Coast
"the Nürburgring or the Amalfi Coast depends on the season"
The Amalfi Coast is a beautiful area in Italy known for its stunning scenery and winding roads. Many people love to drive there for the views and experience.
The Amalfi Coast is a picturesque stretch of coastline in Italy, famous for its stunning views and winding roads. It's a popular destination for driving enthusiasts who enjoy scenic routes.
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