Ferrari has recently unveiled plans to manufacture their first Electric Vehicle Supercar, with an estimated base price tag of €500,000. When their new production plant in Maranello opens in January 2025, expect more reports on the new Electric Purosangue and SF90 Spiders. But whilst Ferrari starts work on their first EVs, let's unpack this news a little more.
Despite the increase in a variety of car manufacturers joining the EV brigade in recent years, such as Volkswagen. Nissan and of course the giant leading the charge - Tesla, this could be the most significant development yet. Known for its roaring energy and power, the rumble of a Ferrari is an iconic noise nobody ever thought would be replaced by electricity. But Ferrari, like many manufacturers, is starting to realise the future of the industry is changing. Here's why these new plans are significant and could be an indicator of further developments later down the line.
The motorsports world in general can occasionally get a bad rap for not being entirely good for the climate. After all, racing cars to their maximum for multiple laps around the track just for fun isn't the most climate conscious of activities when you're burning through fuel like there's no tomorrow, however, what is positive is companies like Ferrari realising changes have to be made.
Ferrari hopes to produce 20,000 EVs once their new production plant is open next year, and although they will come with a hefty price tag, it's undoubtedly a step in the right direction. Hey, who knows, maybe one day soon you'll be able to sign up for a Ferrari Supercar Experience with an entirely electric vehicle? Although many motorsports fans wouldn't have predicted this latest move by Ferrari, as even they know the demand for EV Supercars isn't really there, it could be a positive for industries such as ours that offer experiences in these cars and have growing climate conscious customers.
Although the fully electric supercars have been hogging the headlines, Ferrari has also hinted they might be using this new production plant to focus on manufacturing more Hybrid vehicles, which aim to have more of a broader appeal to drivers.
Despite the SF90 Spider being one of Ferrari's well known hybrid models that can travel for up to 26 miles on electric power alone - it's clear they have plans to build upon this as they make more of an entry into the market, dedicating an entire plant to EV production.
In the opening of the new plant, Ferrari's president, John Elkann spoke about the reasons for taking this step forward,
"We are honoured to have President Mattarella with us for the inauguration of the e-building, a plant that combines the centrality of the people in the workplace with respect for the environment, investing in our territory is essential to prepare ourselves for Ferrari's future with confidence and confirms our commitment to Italian excellence and to our country."
Their intentions are clear, and it will be interesting to potentially see more EV Ferraris flood the supercar market over the next few years.
A prestigious and iconic company like Ferrari unveiling plans for a fully electric Supercar to the rest of the world may have little impact on everyday people where an eye wateringly high price tag will always be out of reach - but what's important is what it symbolises, which is progress in the right direction.
Big companies making environmentally conscious choices encourages awareness, conversation and discussion that goes beyond whether we can afford to buy one of these innovative vehicles, so every little helps! It's safe to say, what's around the corner for Ferrari is going to be interesting to watch.
Fancy testing out the power of a classic 348TS as you cruise around a track, or want to explore the state of the art technology in the 458 Italia? Adults and juniors alike can opt for a Ferrari Driving Experience at a huge range of locations around the UK from well known circuits such as Silverstone up to the Ingliston Circuit in Scotland.
Boasting a wide range of models, an easy booking process and endless possibilities for Ferrari fans, you don't want to miss out on the once in a lifetime chance to sample these incredible Supercars. So what are you waiting for? It's time to get up close and personal with these iconic supercars.