As its sports car rivals tap the brakes on a shift to EVs, Ferrari will take a leap into an uncertain era on Monday (May 25) with the launch of its first fully-electric car, betting it can connect with drivers even without a throaty engine roar.With a top speed of 310 kph (193 mph), Ferrari's four-door Luce - meaning 'light' in Italian - will carry a price tag of more than €500,000 (US$586,000; S$742,917).Former Apple designer Jony Ive's studio LoveFrom was involved in developing the Luce, which sources describe as a large car with a look distinct from Ferrari's usual models."It's a risk and a bit of a bet," said Phil Dunne, a managing director at consultancy Grant Thornton Stax. "But it's a good thing to do because they are leading the way."Monday's unveiling in Rome of the hotly awaited Luce caps years of preparation, from early hybrid Formula One systems more than a decade ago and road models since 2019.First deliveries to clients will start in October, the company said last year.Ferrari has invested heavily in electrification under CEO Benedetto Vigna, including a new "e-building" at its legendary headquarters in Maranello, Italy.
Benedetto Vigna, CEO of Ferrari looks on in the Paddock prior to final practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of USA at Circuit of The Americas on October 22, 2022 in Austin, Texas. (Photo: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images/AFP)
