Piero Ferrari defends new electric Luce: 'Go and see it, then drive it'

Just a few days ago, Ferrari unveiled the first fully electric road car in its history. Despite doing away with the brand's iconic combustion engine, the new model still delivers extraordinary performance, producing up to 1,050 horsepower and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.5 seconds. The all-electric Ferrari can also reach 200 km/h in 6.8 seconds, boasts a top speed of 310 km/h and offers an estimated WLTP range of 530 kilometres, although the final homologation process is still ongoing.

The arrival of an all-electric Ferrari has inevitably sparked plenty of debate, with many enthusiasts questioning whether a battery-powered model can truly embody the spirit of the iconic Italian marque. Among the most outspoken critics was former Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo, who made no secret of his opposition to the project.

Montezemolo suggested he was holding back his true feelings on the car, warning that Ferrari risked damaging one of the most famous automotive brands in the world. He also questioned whether the Prancing Horse badge belonged on such a vehicle and took a swipe at the concept by joking that it was at least unlikely to be copied by Chinese manufacturers.

Piero Ferrari, however, was quick to defend the new model and pushed back against the criticism surrounding the company's move into the electric era. The Ferrari vice chairman argued that opinions should be formed only after experiencing the car first-hand, suggesting that many of its detractors could change their minds once they had the opportunity to see and drive it themselves.

Ferrari's two Formula 1 drivers were also asked to share their first impressions of the new Ferrari Luce, with both Leclerc and Hamilton highlighting aspects that surprised them during the unveiling. Leclerc admitted the near-silent cabin was one of the most noticeable differences compared to a traditional Ferrari, although he praised the artificial sound generated in the car's performance mode for helping maintain a sense of connection with the vehicle. The Monegasque also pointed to the innovative technology integrated throughout the car, describing the all-electric project as a completely new challenge for the Italian manufacturer.

Hamilton, meanwhile, was particularly impressed by how planted the Luce felt on the road. The seven-time world champion praised the car's stability, low centre of gravity and limited body roll through corners, while also singling out the simulated gear-shift system as an innovative feature that helps preserve driver engagement despite the absence of a conventional combustion engine.

Leclerc concluded by insisting that the characteristic feeling associated with driving a Ferrari has not been lost in the transition to electric power. According to the 28-year-old, the company has successfully carried its identity into a completely new segment while still delivering the sense of occasion that has always defined the brand.