Words: Jonathan Wells
Future Ferrari models will get an extra boost due to the inclusion of hybrid power, the brand has announced.
From 2019 onwards, the Italian carmaker will combine their trademark Flat-12 engines, among others, with pioneering hybrid technology, a move that CEO Sergio Marchionne believes will help make Ferraris even faster whilst improving efficiency.
Currently, the only road cars manufactured by the brand to use hybrid technology are the LaFerrari and LaFerrari Aperta – but the long-heralded successor to the F12, which looks set to hit some time in 2020, is set to become the first mainstream model to get the hybrid treatment.
Earlier this year, it was revealed that the Italian automaker had patented designs for electric models that would be able to travel up to 30 miles in electric-only mode – compare that against the mere 11 miles possible by the Prius – and these designs look to be used in everything from entry-level Ferrari’s to the aforementioned F12 successor.
Marchionne revealed earlier this week that the carmaker would undergo a “fundamental shift” in direction over the course of the coming decade, proclaiming that: “Although I neither commit to this nor do I give any sort of certification of it being our objective, it is possible that the annual sales number could be well in excess of 10,000 cars in 2025.”
The CEO also suggested that Ferrari may focus on ultra-luxury vehicles, such as the recently launched GTC4 Lusso, with increased interest. However, if the hybrid technology will be adopted by these high end cars remains to be seen.
Ferrari have enjoyed substantial financial success in 2016. The third quarter of 2016 saw an 8 per cent sales increase and, with this first foray into mainstream hybrid technology, the innovative Italians look to be only getting started.
Become a Gentleman’s Journal Member?
Like the Gentleman’s Journal? Why not join the Clubhouse, a special kind of private club where members receive offers and experiences from hand-picked, premium brands. You will also receive invites to exclusive events, the quarterly print magazine delivered directly to your door and your own membership card.
