Italian carmaker Lancia has finally revealed its Ypsilon electric hatchback ahead of a full unveiling later this month. 

Until now, the historic brand has not entered the electric age and has relied on a Fiat 500-based petrol supermini wearing the same name. But the new model becomes Lancia's first EV and uses key components from a handful of well-proven electric models.

The Ypsilon uses the same platform as the Vauxhall Corsa Electric, Peugeot E-208, Jeep Avenger and Fiat 600e, and it's likely to pinch the 54kWh battery pack and 154bhp electric motor combo giving a 250-mile range.

The carmaker says the newcomer "represent[s] the "maximum expression of design, comfort and well-being on board a Lancia". It uses some key design themes from the Pura HPE Concept shown in early 2023, such as the distinctive black panel at the front containing LED day-running lights, the headlight design, the Lancia shield badge being located on the c-pillar.

Yes, that is a table attached to the dashboard

At the rear, Lancia says the Ypsilon looks back the classic 1970s Stratos with similar, circular rear lights, while Lancia is spaced out across the tailgate. 

Inside there's Stellantis's new 'Sala' (Sound Air Light Augmentation) infotainment system, ribbed velvet seats, and a flat bottomed steering wheel. There's even a small, semi-circular table jutting out from the dashboard.

The online reveal was of a special Ypsilon Cassina edition, limited to just 1906 cars to mark Lancia's founding year. A full launch is reserved for February 14 at Lancia's HQ in Milan.

For the past few years Lancia has only sold the petrol-powered Ypsilon in its home market. Despite being 13 years old, the supermini continues to be a top seller and was the third best-selling car in Italy in 2023. 

Stellantis is effectively relaunching the marque with the new Ypsilon to realise some pretty high aspirations for brand's future. It's unclear if this transformation of the Lancia brand will see the name return to Britain, though; Lancias were last sold in the UK in 1994.

Rear lights take inspiration from the 1970s Lancia Stratos