For many people, Ferrari cars are synonymous with power and large internal combustion engines. This paradigm has been shattered in recent years, however, with the arrival of powerful sports cars from the Prancing Horse brand, equipped with hybrid powertrains. Here’s a look at the technological advancements made in this area by the automaker.
A successful foray into the hybrid realm with the 2013 LaFerrari
The first model from the Italian manufacturer to be equipped with a hybrid engine was the 2013 LaFerrari. This vehicle was designed with such a powertrain to take advantage of the power gain that a combination of thermal and electric could provide.
Developing 960 horsepower, achieved through a harmonious combination of an 800-horsepower V12 internal combustion engine and its 163-horsepower electric counterpart, the car had a top speed of 350 km/h. It accelerated from 0 to 200 km/h in just 6.9 seconds. These feats made this model, the Ferrari for non-professional drivers, the fastest and most powerful.
The technology that enables the efficient operation of these two motors is KERS: Kinetic Energy Recovery System. Initially developed for Ferrari Formula 1 cars, it uses the vehicle’s kinetic energy during braking as a power source for the electric motor, after it has been stored. This allows for increased car performance.
It’s such a powerful technological innovation that it even allowed Ferrari to win the Belgian Grand Prix in 2009. The model driven by Kimi Raikkonen during that race was the F60. KERS became widespread in F1 starting in 2011. It was replaced by ERS (Energy Recovery System), a more advanced version. The Ferrari 499P, which won Le Mans twice, is equipped with it.
The transition to plug-in hybrid technology with the SF90 Stradale and the Spider
With the ongoing goal of increasing power, the manufacturer has added the ability to recharge the vehicle on its SF90 Stradale and Spider models. Powering the cars’ electrical systems by connecting them to a plug allows the electric motor to have significantly more power available immediately. This, however, required equipping the car with a larger capacity battery.
Thanks to this design, the Ferrari SF90 was the first model intended for non-professionals that could reach 1000 horsepower. This power is generated by the internal combustion engine and the electric motor, producing 780 horsepower and 220 horsepower respectively.
The plug-in hybrid powertrain also allowed the car to travel 25 km using only the electric motor. Driving the vehicle generated no environmental or noise pollution during this period.
This automotive propulsion system also makes vehicles more energy-efficient, as can be seen with the Ferrari 296 GTB, 296 GTS Spider, and SF90 Stradale. These are fast cars, with the first two boasting up to 830 horsepower.
Experience the pinnacle of automotive performance aboard a Ferrari Hybrid.
The Italian manufacturer introduced hybrid technology into its road vehicles through KERS to increase their power. This same desire led to the integration of plug-in hybrids into its road cars. This technology also allows for the driving of vehicles that produce low emissions, are quiet, and consume little energy.
If you would like to discover the benefits of the Italian manufacturer’s hybrid models, visit the Ferrari dealership located in Montreal.
