For the consumer who wants a smartphone to make an impression, the
Lamborghini nameplate can do that for a cool $6,000 (roughly Rs. 3.7
lakhs), shipping included.
Tonino Lamborghini Mobile on Monday
announced the global launch of the stainless steel-and-leather handset
ahead of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.
Despite
an uncertain economy and declining prices for mobile devices, the
Italian-based company says it may be unable to meet demand.
"Luxury
is not a need, but it is a way to stand out," said Bob Hatefi, chief
executive at Lamborghini Mobile, a company formed by the son of famed
auto designer Ferruccio Lamborghini.
"We provide technology as well as luxury. We are not after volume."
The
company is not related to Lamborghini automobiles, which are now
produced by a division of Volkswagen, but was created by Tonino
Lamborghini, the son of the famed auto designer Ferruccio Lamborghini.
The 88 Tauri
handset is offered in black, gold and steel silver and is finished with
high-grade leather available in five colors. Each phone is assembled by
hand and receives a unique device number.
The company also makes
headphones and other audio products, and an earlier smartphone selling
for around $4,000 (roughly Rs. 2.5 lakhs).