Why Ferrari Isn’t Giving Up The Combustion Engine

Amidst global heat waves, devastating floods, and unpredictable weather changes, the European Union member countries have taken a historic step by approving a law that accelerates the phase-out of gasoline and diesel-powered internal combustion cars. Under this groundbreaking legislation, all new vehicles sold from 2035 must have zero carbon emissions, and cars sold from 2030 should achieve a 55% reduction in emissions.

Ferrari Isn’t Giving Up The Combustion Engine

While the EU is making a bold move towards carbon neutrality, Germany has lobbied for an exemption for internal combustion cars powered by e-fuel. E-fuel is a synthetic petroleum alternative derived from captured CO2 emissions and other organic elements, such as water (H20). Porsche, the renowned German automaker, spearheaded the e-fuel revolution in 2022 and has partnered with Siemens to scale up the production of this environmentally friendly gasoline alternative.

Interestingly, even legendary Italian automaker Ferrari has embraced the e-fuel trend, despite its plans to launch its first-ever all-electric supercar by 2025. Ferrari’s goal is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, and it will continue to develop hybrid models for its lineup. Notably, Ferrari is committed to preserving its heritage by offering clients the option to choose between internal combustion engines (ICE), hybrids, or electric cars. Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna emphasized that the soulful sound of the high-strung, gas-powered V8 and V12 engines is an essential part of the company’s identity, making the ICE an integral part of its legacy.

Recent developments from Ferrari highlight their dedication to both sustainability and performance. The automaker recently unveiled its latest road-legal hybrid supercars, the SF90 XX Stradale coupe, and spider, as part of its racing-oriented XX program. These powerful machines feature a twin-turbocharged gasoline-fed V8 engine, three electric motors, and a 7.9 kWh plug-in hybrid battery, delivering a staggering 1,015 horsepower and a blistering zero-to-60 mph acceleration time of 2.3 seconds. Impressively, the SF90 XX models can travel for 15 miles in EV mode, combining electrification with Ferrari’s characteristic performance.

Even with speculations that the Daytona SP3 could be the last V12-powered Ferrari, the automaker is embracing synthetic e-fuel and hybrid technology as a strategic approach to navigate the electrified era while preserving its prestigious lineage. By striking a balance between environmental consciousness and its iconic driving experience, Ferrari is ensuring that its legacy continues to thrive well into the future.