Lamborghini expects a tough year of sales given the gloomy economy

Last year, Lamborghini posted impressive results with global deliveries up by 30 percent to 2,083 units, up from 1,602 units in 2011, while turnover climbed 46 percent to €469 million (S$745 million). The surge in sales and profits was led by the U.S. market with a remarkable 53 percent increase while Europe followed suit with 34 percent growth, The Business Times reported.

Stephan Winkelmann, President and Chief Executive of Automobili Lamborghini SpA, commented on the situation, "Last year, we sold 2,083 cars. This year, we don't know, because the economy is a big question mark, especially in Europe. Europe is not getting better, but we will see. The U.S. is going well and we hope this is not going to affect the rest of the world."

He made the comments during the global launch of the Aventador LP700-4 Roadster. It's coupe flagship registered 922 units to drive the company with a 30 percent growth last year. Lamborghini's only other model is the dated Gallardo, whose replacement is expected this year.

Globally, the super sportscar segment shrank last year despite the general market rising seven percent to 66.5 million units. Only 25,000 supercars were delivered last year, a two percent decrease from 2011. Mr Winkelmann explained the decrease was sparked by the global financial crisis in 2009, with no real recovery ever since.

Mr Winkelmann added a third model is necessary given the high investment low volume business model of the automaker. Largely expected to be the Urus SUV, the third model is expected to hit markets by 2017 - subject to approval of parent company Volkswagen Group.