It was January 2018, when at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, former Ferrari president and CEO Sergio Marchionne first hinted at a “Prancing Horse” EV to compete with Tesla.
“If an electric supercar were to be built, Ferrari would be the first,” Marchionne said. “People are amazed by what Tesla did with supercars: I’m not trying to diminish what Elon did, but I think it’s possible for all of us.”
Well, Ferrari is not the first. But it’s certainly taken the prize for most anticipated EV launch ever, with the drip-feed strategy of Elettrica’s initial model “nickname”, then last October’s powertrain reveal, then, in February, the Apple-esque Lovefrom-designed interior led by Jony Ive and Marc Newson.
Today’s reveal of the Roma exterior by Ferrari ends the secrecy and completes the process. This is Luce (Italian for “light”), the most important thing Maranello has made in decades.
courtesy of ferrari
The numbers are suitably high-end. The four motors, one per wheel, have a combined output of more than 1,000 horsepower in boost mode. Generates 832 hp and 7,750 Nm at the rear axle wheels. The front axle adds 282 hp and 3,400 Nm. Full power is available in less than a second. Zero to 62 mph is tackled in 2.5 seconds, then on to a top speed of 192 mph. It’s effectively a hypercar in five-seat GT guise (a first for Ferrari).
The 122 kWh battery – one of the largest in any production EV – charges at up to 350 kilowatts on an 800-volt system. Ferrari claims this battery gives the Luce a range of over 329 miles per charge. The all-wheel drive and steering are inspired by the Purosangue SUV. Ferrari has a confirmed curb weight of 4,982 pounds or 2,260 kilograms, which is only 200 pounds more than the Purosangue, despite the impressive battery pack.
courtesy of ferrari
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