Audi buys Ducati

Car manufacturer Audi has bought the famous Italian motorbike manufacturer Ducati for an unconfirmed sum of around €862 million, including all debt attached to the firm.

The Volkswagen-owned prestige car brand was rumoured to be interested in the motorbike firm, and its purchase now means that Audi will go head-to-head with its rival BMW on two wheels as well as four.

In a statement, Audi said:

“Ducati is known worldwide as a leading brand in motorcycle manufacture, with outstanding expertise in engine development and lightweight construction.

“Alongside the traditional Italian brands Lamborghini and Italdesign, Ducati is now a third pillar for AUDI AG in Northern Italy. Another building block in the Company’s growth strategy thus falls into place.”

Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, added: “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.”

Ducati has been on the market for some time, the private equity group that owned it having seen no further progression in the market in which Ducati operates.

Superbike sales have been in steady decline for several years, but Ducati is nonetheless reported to be making a profit and will add a prestigious brand to the Volkswagen Group.