Ducati boss predicts growth

At the world launch of the new 796 Hypermotard, Ducati boss Gabriele Del Torchio exclusively told MCN how they were faring in the current financial crisis.

• Ducatis for sale

“It’s a tough time for everybody and the market is declining all over the world and down by 32, but Ducati’s market share is constantly growing.

“I believe at the end of this year we will be able to achieve the highest market share we have ever had, up by 7.1%, so things aren’t so bad.

“This is down to many reasons, firstly due to our active new product introduction plan. I promised three years ago that we would produce at least three new models every year and we’ve done that.

“As well as the Hypermotard 796 you see today (and the Streefighter launched earlier this year – ed) you will see some other exciting new products at the Milan motorcycle show.

“Another reason is due to the tremendous improvement of our quality. The quality of Ducati is no longer a problem today, our level is comparable with the Japanese. And finally is the passion of our guys and the Ducatisti.

“What we are doing on the racetrack is really helping us, we have just won the manufacturer’s Superbike championship for the 16th time. We will see what happens with our riders, though!

“The current financial crisis will change the rules, and we are adapting well. This is a period of opportunity for a company like Ducati and we are constantly growing.”