When hybrid systems first entered Formula 1 with the 2009 introduction of KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System), the mission was clear: reduce CO₂ emissions and recover lost energy during braking. But at Ferrari, the vision was broader. “Right from the start, Ferrari understood that hybrid systems weren’t just about efficiency—they could unlock a whole new dimension of performance,” we can read in the article published recently by Ferrari in its Mythbusters serie.
That vision materialized at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show with the unveiling of the 599 Hy-Kers concept, adapting the F1-derived KERS technology into a high-voltage, three-phase electric motor connected to the rear of a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. During braking, kinetic energy was recovered to recharge lithium-ion batteries housed beneath the floor. The results were impressive: a 35% reduction in CO₂ emissions and, more importantly, a major step towards using electrification to boost performance rather than merely contain emissions.
Three years later, Ferrari introduced LaFerrari, and with it, the culmination of their early hybrid experiments. Anchored by a 6.2-litre naturally aspirated V12, LaFerrari also featured a 163 hp electric motor—a marvel of torque density and responsiveness, drawing directly from Formula 1 technology.
The motor was connected to the rear of the gearbox through a set of gears, with two electric inverters mounted above the transmission bell housing. A second auxiliary electric motor replaced the traditional alternator, saving weight and reducing rotational mass.
The results was an hypercar that could surge from 70 to 120 km/h in just 3.4 seconds—half the time needed by the legendary Enzo. Even more remarkable was its transient response: from just 2,500 rpm in fourth gear, it took only 0.1 seconds to unleash 90% of full power.
Ferrari’s hybrid evolution continued with the SF90 Stradale, their first plug-in hybrid. Here, electrification was taken to a new level: a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 produced 780 hp, complemented by three electric motors generating an additional 217 hp, for a staggering total of 1,000 hp.
The SF90 introduced a pure-electric eDrive mode, offering up to 25 km of zero-emission range, and cutting-edge systems like front-axle torque vectoring and an electric traction control system that manages slip by exploiting kinetic energy instead of cutting engine torque.
The 296 GTB took the concept further. With a compact, 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 producing 663 hp and a 167 hp electric motor, it delivered a combined 830 hp.
Ferrari’s hybrid expertise culminated in the 499P, their Le Mans-winning endurance racer, featuring a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 delivering 680 hp, supplemented by a 272 hp electric motor on the front axle. The result was four-wheel drive at speeds over 190 km/h, fully compliant with WEC regulations.
Inspired directly by the 499P, the all-new Ferrari F80 hypercar is a hybrid powerhouse. With a total output of 1,200 hp—900 hp from the combustion engine and 300 hp from three lightweight electric motors—this car represents the apex of Ferrari’s hybrid technology.
