Applying F1 Technology

The Ferrari 599GTB Fiorano, Ferrari's flagship model that debuted at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show, boasts world-class performance with a 6.0-liter V12 engine (620ps, 62kgm) mounted at the front, achieving 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 330 km/h.

The engine for this hybrid model is believed to be the same 6.0-liter V12 as the 599, and it is thought to be a 4WD system where the engine drives the rear wheels and the motor drives the front wheels. While the specifics of the hybrid system have not been disclosed, it is expected to incorporate the regenerative braking from the "KERS" (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) used in the 2009 F1 car, the "F60."

Official Announcement at the Geneva Motor Show

Furthermore, with the ability to run on electric power alone and equipped with an idling stop function, fuel efficiency is said to improve by up to 30 percent.

This hybrid version of the Ferrari 599 is scheduled for an official announcement at the Geneva Motor Show in March. The model unveiled there is expected to be very close to the production version.

(Visuals of the hybrid specification have not been released; the photo shown is of the Ferrari 599GTB Fiorano.)

BRAND HISTORY
Not a few fans are thrilled by the emblem known as "Cavallino Rampante," or "prancing horse" in Japan. A car that excites crowds with its fierce performance on the circuit and captivates people with its elegant silhouette and high-pitched sound on the street – that is FERRARI. In both F1 and its road cars, this brand, which pursues the ultimate in speed, still carries the strong passion of its founder, Enzo Ferrari.

Born in Modena, Italy, in 1898, Enzo was so moved by a race he saw in Bologna at the age of 10 that he eventually decided he wanted to become a racing driver. His singular ambition steadily moved toward realization, and in 1920, Enzo became a test driver for Alfa Romeo. In the same year, he competed as an Alfa driver in the Targa Florio, achieving a commendable second place.

However, Enzo's interest eventually shifted to managing a racing team, and in 1929, he established Scuderia Ferrari, taking on Alfa's racing activities. Despite his prowess, his relationship with Alfa ended in 1939. After World War II, in 1947, he resumed racing activities with the "Ferrari 125," equipped with his own V12 engine. This marked the beginning of Ferrari's journey as a sports car brand.

Subsequently, Ferrari came under the Fiat umbrella. Currently, under President Luca Montezemolo, who also serves as chairman of the Fiat Group, the brand's allure continues to grow. The lineup consists of five models: the V12-powered "599" and "612 Scaglietti," the mid-engine V8 sports cars "F430" and "F430 Spider," and the ultra-sporty "430 Scuderia."