After years of anticipation, Ferrari is gearing up to present its inaugural electric vehicle (EV), the Elettrica, at its Capital Markets Day on October 9. The Italian automaker has been laying the groundwork for this transition for many years, emphasizing its commitment to innovation and sustainability while maintaining its iconic heritage. With a new production facility dedicated to EVs and significant investments in electrification research, Ferrari aims to redefine the luxury electric car market with its unique hatchback/crossover design.
For decades, Ferrari has been synonymous with high-performance combustion engines. However, as the automotive industry shifts towards electrification, the company has embraced the challenge by developing cutting-edge technology in-house. During a recent shareholders' meeting, Chairman John Elkann highlighted Ferrari's dedication to advancing electrification since its Formula One days. He revealed that all key electric components are meticulously crafted within the Maranello factory, ensuring the brand's renowned quality remains intact.
In preparation for this milestone, Ferrari unveiled its E-Cells Lab in collaboration with the University of Bologna and NXP last April. This state-of-the-art research center focuses on enhancing knowledge of materials and lithium cell properties, filing an impressive 200 battery-related patents over the past year. Additionally, the e-building facility opened last June will serve as the birthplace of future Ferrari models, reinforcing the brand's commitment to staying rooted in Italy.
The Elettrica is expected to break away from traditional sports car designs, adopting a more practical hatchback or crossover silhouette with four doors. This shift caters to a broader audience while incorporating innovative features such as a "sound reproduction device" patented in 2023. This technology allows the EV to emulate the exhilarating roar of internal combustion engines, preserving the auditory experience cherished by enthusiasts.
As Ferrari prepares to showcase its first fully electric offering, the world eagerly awaits the unveiling of the Elettrica. By blending advanced engineering with timeless elegance, the Italian marque continues to push boundaries in the automotive realm. This October, Ferrari will demonstrate how it plans to revolutionize the electric vehicle landscape while honoring its storied legacy.
In the heart of Milan, during the prestigious Milan Design Week 2025, XPENG, a pioneering Chinese high-tech automotive company, presented its innovative lineup to the Italian market. The event showcased cutting-edge electric vehicles and robotics designed to redefine mobility. Among the highlights were the XPENG P7+, an AI-driven electric sedan, the AEROTH X2 flying car, and the IRON humanoid robot. This presentation marks XPENG's commitment to Europe and sustainable transportation in Italy.
During the vibrant spring of 2025, Milan welcomed XPENG's exhibition at the renowned ADI Design Museum. The museum, home to the Compasso d'Oro Award collection, served as a fitting venue for this exclusive display. Key figures from XPENG emphasized the importance of Italian design culture in shaping their vision. Brian Gu, Vice Chairman & President of XPENG, highlighted the synergy between timeless Italian design and futuristic mobility solutions. Meanwhile, JuanMa Lopez, Vice President of the Design Center, underscored the integration of aesthetics and functionality in XPENG's creations.
The exhibition featured three groundbreaking innovations: the XPENG P7+ electric sedan, embodying artificial intelligence; the AEROTH X2, a flying car that promises urban transportation transformation; and the IRON robot, showcasing advanced robotics technology. These models will arrive in Italy by June, distributed exclusively by ATFLOW. Mattia Vanini, President of ATFLOW, expressed pride in collaborating with XPENG, positioning them as leaders in the global technological revolution.
Since its establishment in 2014, XPENG has rapidly expanded globally, delivering over 94,000 vehicles in the first quarter of 2025 alone. Their presence extends across multiple European countries, including Norway, where they began their European journey in 2021.
From a journalist's perspective, this event signifies not just the introduction of new products but a paradigm shift in how we perceive mobility. XPENG’s dedication to integrating artificial intelligence, robotics, and design excellence offers a glimpse into a future where sustainability meets innovation. It challenges traditional automakers to rethink their strategies and embrace the possibilities of smart, eco-friendly transportation. Such initiatives remind us that progress in technology can significantly enhance our daily lives while addressing environmental concerns.
The automotive industry is undergoing a transformative phase, and this year's New York Auto Show highlights the shift toward electric vehicles (EVs). Despite challenges such as declining attendance figures post-pandemic and federal policy changes affecting EV adoption, manufacturers remain committed to electrification. A diverse lineup of new models and concepts unveiled at the event showcases innovation and adaptability in design and technology.
Innovative designs and advanced features dominated the exhibition floor. Subaru made headlines with its latest offerings, including the Trailseeker, an all-electric vehicle tailored for outdoor enthusiasts. With impressive acceleration and towing capabilities, alongside a user-friendly touchscreen interface, the Trailseeker aims to redefine adventure travel. Additionally, updates to the Solterra model enhance its appeal by increasing driving range and incorporating modern tech. Meanwhile, Kia introduced the EV4 sedan, targeting budget-conscious consumers without compromising on mileage or charging convenience through its NACS port integration.
Beyond traditional passenger cars, concept vehicles and specialized builds captured attention. Genesis presented its X Gran Equator Concept, blending nostalgic aesthetics with futuristic engineering possibilities. For eco-conscious adventurers, custom-built electric recreational vehicles (RVs) emerged as exciting alternatives, offering mobile living solutions powered sustainably. Furthermore, luxury options like Lucid Gravity and practical family choices such as Hyundai Ioniq 9 expanded the spectrum of available three-row electric SUVs. These developments reflect broader trends towards sustainable mobility while catering to varied consumer preferences.
The evolution of electric vehicles signifies more than just technological advancement; it represents humanity's commitment to environmental stewardship and smarter resource utilization. As automakers embrace cleaner energy sources and innovative designs, they inspire individuals worldwide to reconsider their transportation habits positively. This transition not only reduces carbon footprints but also fosters creativity within industries striving for greener futures. Ultimately, these efforts contribute to building a world where progress aligns harmoniously with ecological preservation.