Lancia is probably best known in Australia for its remarkable Stratos coupes which dominated the world rally scene in the 1970s and the nifty Beta coupes sold here in the 1980s.

The Italian automobile manufacturer's links to the world of boating are less well-known. But the company's founder, Vincenzo Lancia, drew inspiration from the ribbed hulls of boats in the 1920s to design the monocoque body shell of the then revolutionary Lancia Lambda.

Over the decades that followed, Lancia never moved far from the water. In the 1960s the Flaminia class of hydroplanes dominated European racing and used the same V6 engine as the Lancia Flaminia automobile.

The company backed the Azzura challenges in the America's Cup and recently has forged strong links with the Monaco Yacht Club.

Now, in true Italian fashion, it has produced a RIB that makes most other vessels in the class look tame by comparison.

In partnership with RIB producer Sacs, Lancia has produced the 13.1 metre, twin engined Lancia Powerboat -- a vessel that is sure to be the next must-have toy among the European jet-set.

The coupe-styled RIB can carry 11 people, has a top speed of 55 knots and has a cabin that can sleep two. With a fuel capacity of 1000 litres, owners can make a quick run almost anywhere in the Med.

The styling is eye-catching. A low hood covers the cockpit but gives standing headroom. The bow deck has two sunbathing pads either side of a central walkway. The engine covers at the stern make another sunbed and the hood retracts at the touch of a button.

Inside there is air-conditioning and a lounge that converts to a double bunk. There is also a small head and shower. The shower has coloured LED lights to provide "romantic" lighting.

The twin Fiat N67-560 engines produce 1120 hp at 3000 rpm. Two buttons on the throttle levers modify the angle of the propellors which changes the angle of the hull relative to the water and ensuring a smoother ride in rough conditions.

No price for Australian delivery has been announced.