Ferrari, the iconic Italian supercar manufacturer, has provided a first look at the interior and interface design of its highly anticipated electric vehicle project, officially named the Luce. This unveiling marks a significant new chapter for the legendary marque, signalling its entry into the burgeoning electric vehicle market.
Luce: A Vision for Ferrari’s Electric Future
The company stated that the name ‘Luce’ signifies more than just a designation; it represents a vision. Ferrari views its first electric offering not merely as an entry into a new era of automotive design and engineering, but as a natural progression that uphns its renowned standards of performance and luxury. This approach underscores Ferrari’s commitment to evolving while remaining true to its heritage.
“This new naming strategy reflects how the Ferrari Luce marks a significant addition to the Prancing Horse’s line-up, embodying the seamless expression of tradition and innovation. With its cutting-edge technology, unique design, and best-in-class driving thrills, it unites Ferrari’s racing heritage, the timeless spirit of its sports cars, and the evolving reality of contemporary lifestyles. It testifies to Ferrari’s determination to go beyond expectations: to imagine the future, and to dare. Because leading means illuminating the path ahead – and Luce embodies that mindset.”
Collaborative Design: Ferrari and LoveFrom
For the Luce’s interior, Ferrari partnered with LoveFrom, a creative collective founded by Sir Jony Ive and Marc Newson. The collaboration, which has spanned five years, has focused on every aspect of the vehicle’s interior, including materials, ergonomics, interface, and user experience. This partnership highlights Ferrari’s dedication to integrating innovative design with exceptional craftsmanship.
The core philosophy behind the interior design was to present “a first, tangible insight into the design philosophy…where innovation meets craftsmanship and cutting-edge design. The team focused on perfecting and refining every solution to its purest form — not to reinvent what already works, but to create a new, carefully considered expression of Ferrari.”
The company further elaborated, stating: “Ultimately, the design of the Ferrari Luce’s interior is a synthesis of meticulous craftsmanship, respect for tradition, and thoughtful innovation. It offers a new choice for Ferrari enthusiasts – one that honours the past while embracing the future, and exemplifies the brand’s enduring commitment to quality, performance, and cultural significance.”
Interior Highlights and Design Cues
The interior of the Ferrari Luce features design elements that both pay homage to Ferrari’s storied past and showcase its forward-thinking approach. Notably, the steering wheel is a reimagined version of the iconic three-spoke Nardi wheel from the 1950s and 1960s.
Steering Wheel Innovation
Constructed from 100% recycled aluminum, the new steering wheel features an alloy specifically developed for the vehicle to ensure superior mechanical resistance and surface quality for its anodization process. Weighing 400 grams less than a standard Ferrari steering wheel, it incorporates two analogue control modules for enhanced functionality and clarity. Drawing inspiration from Formula One, each button has undergone extensive testing to provide optimal mechanical and acoustic feedback.
Advanced Display System
The Luce boasts three meticulously designed displays: a driver binnacle, a central control panel, and a rear control panel, all optimized for clarity and purpose. The instrument cluster moves with the steering wheel, ensuring an unobstructed view for the driver. These displays are crafted by Samsung, featuring a unique design where three distinct cutouts reveal information from a second display behind the top panel, creating a captivating visual depth.
Samsung Display engineers developed an ultra-light, ultra-thin OLED panel specifically for the Luce. While pricing details remain undisclosed, previous reports have speculated a starting price of around €500,000 (approximately $535,000 USD).