Ex-Ferrari Boss Criticises Luce, Says Even China Won't Copy

JAKARTA — Ferrari Luce, the first electric vehicle (EV) from Ferrari, has sparked controversy following its official unveiling in Rome, Italy, on 25 May 2026. Attention has not only been drawn to its status as Ferrari’s first EV but also its exterior design, which many consider a significant departure from Maranello’s signature style. Previously, the interior received positive feedback; the cabin designed by LoveFrom, the studio of former Apple designer Jony Ive, was praised for blending modernity with Ferrari’s sporty character. However, this appreciation did not extend to the exterior, which drew criticism, including from former Ferrari Chairman and CEO Luca di Montezemolo. Montezemolo, who led Ferrari from 1991 to 2014, believes Ferrari has taken too bold a step with the Luce design. ‘If I say what I truly think, I could hurt Ferrari. We are risking the destruction of a legend, and I deeply regret it,’ he told Carscoops on Wednesday, 27 May 2026. He also mocked the design, suggesting even Chinese manufacturers would not replicate it: ‘I hope they at least remove the Prancing Horse logo from the car. It’s clearly a vehicle that even Chinese manufacturers won’t copy,’ he added. This comment is thought to relate to Xiaomi’s YU7 SUV, which previously drew attention for resembling Ferrari’s Purosangue. ‘This car doesn’t look like a Ferrari at all. If this is called innovation, I don’t know what Enzo Ferrari would say,’ Salvini stated. Beyond public and Italian automotive figures’ criticism, the Luce launch also impacted Ferrari’s stock market performance. Shares fell 8.4% in Italy and 5.1% in the United States immediately after the unveiling. Ferrari has publicly stated that the Luce is a key part of its multi-energy strategy to attract new customers, particularly premium consumers increasingly interested in eco-friendly vehicles. The Ferrari Luce is the brand’s first four-door, five-seat electric vehicle, capable of accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 2.5 seconds with a top speed exceeding 310 km/h.