Ferrari's First Electric Car 'Luce' Sparks Global Criticism
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Ferrari has unveiled its first all-electric car, the "Luce," designed by former Apple design chief Jony Ive, marking a significant departure from the brand's traditional sports car image.
- The Luce features a 550,000 Euro price tag, a 122 kWh battery, a 530 km range, and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.5 seconds.
- Despite its advanced technology, the car has faced widespread criticism from fans, former executives, and even Italian officials, who argue it does not resemble a Ferrari and risks damaging the brand's legacy.
Italian luxury sports car manufacturer Ferrari has launched its first-ever all-electric vehicle, the "Luce," designed in collaboration with Jony Ive, Apple's former design guru. This move represents a radical departure from Ferrari's iconic V12 engines and aggressive styling, aiming to attract a new generation of buyers in the rapidly electrifying automotive market. The Luce is priced at 550,000 Euros (approximately $640,000 USD) and boasts impressive specifications, including a 122 kWh battery offering a range of 530 kilometers. It is equipped with four motors, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.5 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 310 km/h. The car's design, influenced by Apple's minimalist aesthetic, features a spacious interior and is Ferrari's first five-seater and second four-door model, targeting wealthy families rather than traditional sports car enthusiasts. However, the Luce's unveiling has been met with a storm of criticism. Social media platforms are flooded with comments suggesting the car "doesn't look like a Ferrari at all." Some have even expressed that founder Enzo Ferrari would "crawl out of his grave" to reclaim control. Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Matteo Salvini, questioned the innovation, stating the Luce "doesn't look like a car from the Prancing Horse." Former Ferrari chairman Luca Cordero di Montezemolo bluntly stated the car might "destroy a legend" and is unworthy of the Ferrari badge. Long-time supporters and collectors have also voiced their disappointment. Shaun Baker, a luxury car dealer and collector, suggested renaming the car "Loser," arguing that its image detracts from Ferrari's aspirational status. He even compared it unfavorably to more affordable electric vehicles like the Nissan Leaf and Chinese brands, claiming those cars looked better despite being developed much faster. Ferrari's Chief Commercial Officer, Enrico Galliera, acknowledged the controversy, stating the company's goal was to "provoke debate" and introduce something "completely new."
This is called innovation? I don't know what Enzo Ferrari would think.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.