Ferrari hybrids outsell ICE models for first time

THE VISCERAL sound of a petrol-powered Ferrari at full throttle is no doubt partly responsible for their enduring popularity. So, where does such a storied automaker with a history of iconic ICE engines go in the face of the BEV tsunami?

That question appears to be in the process of being answered for them by customers who, gauged from Ferrari sales results this year to date, are more than willing to jump behind the wheel of a plug-in hybrid Fazza if they choose to go down the green road.

In a 2023 financial results update issued recently, the Prancing Horse revealed sales for the third quarter of the year showing 51 per cent of the 3459 cars it delivered were plug-in hybrids.

Ferrari hasn’t yet revealed its first fully electric model but is in the process of electrification though at present, maintains more than half its line up with ICE powertrains.

However, plenty of plug-in hybrids are rolling out Ferrari dealership doors as customers realise the upside of a PHEV Ferrari – stronger performance (if that were possible), reduced fuel consumption for a longer driving range… and as a salve to an environmental conscience.

Plug-in hybrid models in the Ferrari stable include the SF Stradale and Spider and the 296GTB while petrol-only models are the Roma coupe and convertible, Purosangue SUV, and 812 Competizione A.

The Purosangue (pictured) has only recently come onto the market, so sales figures may temporarily slew the other way as more examples of the big, sought-after ICE-powered SUV roll off the assembly line.

Ferrari’s first all-electric model is scheduled to make an appearance in mid-2025 with plans for Ferrari to build up to 60 per cent of its cars with hybrid and electric powertrains by 2026.

However, Ferrari management is careful to convey to rusted-on ICE customers that it won’t be pulling the pin on pistons just yet. The Maranello-based company has shown its hand in that regard supporting and gaining a dispensation for synthetic e-fuel availability going into the future with support from Porsche and others.

Ferrari’s head of product marketing, Pietro Virgolin, has gone on record as saying, “despite the additional costs of maintaining so many different powertrain options, the company believes it’s the right way forward”.

In the quarterly financial update, Ferrari chief executive officer, Benedetto Vigna was upbeat about the company’s decisions regarding multiple powertrains and its resulting financial trajectory saying, “Another record quarter with profit growth driven by an even richer mix and by the continuing appeal of personalisations (custom built models) leading us to increase year-end guidance.”

“The order book remains at highest levels reflecting strong demand across all geographies, covering the entire 2025.” 

“Our brand’s uniqueness has once again contributed to this success, informing everything we do - from car launches, including the latest 296 Challenge and 499P Modificata, to the exclusive experiences we offer our clients, such as the Ferrari Gala recently held in New York and the Finali Mondiali at Mugello circuit”.

And presumably the cars it builds….