BBC reports that “Ferrari” presented its new creation to Pope Leo in Rome. However, this is unlikely to help control the wave of disappointment. Primarily due to the dull, uninspiring design.
Where did the “Ferrari” muscles go?
The new model differs from typical “Ferrari” cars in appearance, as it is the first five-seater car of this Italian brand, developed in collaboration with the agency “LoveFrom” founded by former Apple design chief Sir Jony Ive.
Reactions on social media to the presentation ranged from describing it as “straight to the landfill” to “absolute design mastery.” However, on Tuesday, the company’s shares fell more than 8% on the Milan stock exchange and more than 5% in New York.
The luxury electric car market is shaking
Competitors of this supercar manufacturer, such as Lamborghini and Porsche, have reduced their electric car production plans due to low demand and strong competition from Chinese brands.
Presented to Pope Leo
On Tuesday, the manufacturer Vigna also showed the new electric car to Pope Leo, who examined it closely and sat behind the wheel. The steering wheel was symbolically gifted to the Pope.
“Ferrari” CEO Benedetto Vigna said in Rome that “Luce,” which means “light” in Italian, took half a decade to develop.
“Ferrari” plans to start producing a 100% electric version, although it had previously dismissed such a possibility.
“Luce” has a “Ferrari”-made electric motor on each wheel, which helps the car accelerate to 60 mph in about 2.5 seconds.
The company stated that all components are manufactured in-house, so the car can only be repaired by the manufacturer in the future. This will preserve the value of “Luce.”
Car giants are undergoing changes
In recent years, the transition of automotive industry giants to EVs has faced significant obstacles.
Due to poor EV demand and regulatory changes during President Donald Trump’s administration, including EV buyer incentive programs, car manufacturers doubled gasoline car sales, especially in the US.
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The launch of Jaguar’s electric concept car was heavily criticized for abandoning the classic British brand style.
“Ferrari’s” introduced “Luce” received similar criticism.
One critic wrote on an “X” account: “”Ferrari” just killed its brand, like Jaguar. Straight to the landfill.”
“What is happening with European luxury car manufacturers? First Jaguar, now Ferrari,” others wrote.
However, not all commentators reacted negatively to the new car. One post stated: “Absolute design mastery. Ferrari just unveiled the breathtaking LUCE concept, and it completely changes the game.”
“Ferrari” chief design officer Flavio Manzoni told YouTube creator Cleo Abram that critics are part of the innovation process.
He admitted that the concept of an electric “Ferrari” with a new design is “controversial,” but believes people will appreciate it in the coming months.
“Ferrari” also stated that alongside its fully electric vehicle, it will continue to offer gasoline and hybrid cars.
Meanwhile, direct “Ferrari” competitors have abandoned their ambitions to produce electric cars.
“Lamborghini” abandoned plans to produce electric cars and instead shifted to hybrid models, citing low demand for luxury electric cars.
German “Porsche” reduced its electric car plans due to low demand caused by poor sales in China and tariffs in the US.
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