Ferrari is synonymous in the motor vehicle world as a powerhouse when it comes to motorsport and racing. The Italian company is not only beloved on the grid in the world of Formula 1, but their luxury vehicles are a sight for spectators who may see one cruising on the roads. However, with sports cars like these, it seems impossible to envision a reality where the internal combustion engine no longer is part of these iconic vehicles. However, ever committed to sustainability, Ferrari is continuously adapting their engines for a changing future.
Ferrari continues to be an icon on the road
Ferrari has long stood as an iconic symbol of what motorsport and fast vehicles are. Their cars effortlessly fuse performance, prestige, and Italian craftsmanship and have always been something of a status symbol. With their unmistakable prancing horse emblem and sleek, aggressive design, a Ferrari is sure to always turn heads when out on the road.
Beyond just pure aesthetics and a hefty price tag, Ferrari vehicles are also an example of engineering brilliance. Reaching fast speeds in a matter of seconds, the brand has continued to be a legend in the world of motorsport and is often seen as the quintessential racing car to be a part of, thanks to its decades of legacy. In the world of Formula One, Ferrari continues to be a beloved team by fans, with this year seeing seven-time World Champion driver Lewis Hamilton donning red for the first time on the Grid.
Increased innovation from Ferrari with this fuel
While Ferrari’s engines are the height of potential for what an internal combustion engine can achieve, the company is no stranger to the pressing effects of climate change and the need to transform the transportation industry towards more sustainable alternative engine solutions, particularly with the pressing European Union ban of the sale of internal combustion engines.
“We believe there is still a valid way forward for [internal combustion engine] cars and this is going to be supported by the development of carbon-neutral fuel,” said Ferrari CEO, Benedetto Vigna to Autocar in an interview in 2024.
Recently, Ferrari has filed a patent application for a hydrogen-powered internal combustion engine. This opens up a world of opportunity for the brand, signaling a shift towards a world where the internal combustion engine is reimagined and reengineered to suit environmental objectives. Unlike a traditional hydrogen engine which works off of fuel-cell technology, this engine explores the possibility of blending both hydrogen and electricity as a fuel source while keeping internal combustion engine technology.
Ferrari invests in electrical engine technology
The hydrogen patent is not the first move Ferrari has made towards more sustainable solutions. Ferrari is already showcasing innovative designs and models that use electric engine technology. One of their latest models, the 296 GTB, makes use of plug-in hybrid engine technology. With a 120° six-cylinder engine and a power output of 224ps/l, the car is an example of how Ferrari is not sacrificing performance just because their models make use of alternative engine technology.
However, Ferrari is not the only sports car company showcasing innovative design with their alternative engine models. Lamborghini is a competitor to watch out for, who has also been investing in electrical vehicle technology. The new Temerario by Lamborghini unveiled in 2024, produces 920hp and can go from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 2,7 seconds, with a max speed of 343 km/h, all with a full electric drive on the front axle and the hybrid rear propulsion. The Temerario is an example of what these brands are competing with when it comes to hybrid technology, and assuring sport car enthusiasts that hybrid technology can still deliver.
