Ferrari has unveiled its latest flagship hybrid sports car, the 849 Testarossa, a modern tribute to the iconic 1980s Testarossa. Officially revealed in Milan, the 849 Testarossa replaces the SF90 Stradale at the top of Ferrari’s range and will be available in both coupe and retractable-top spider versions. Deliveries to European clients are set to begin in the second and third quarters of next year, with U.S. deliveries arriving approximately three months later at a higher price due to import tariffs.
The 849 Testarossa features a mid-rear mounted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 830 horsepower, paired with three electric motors that deliver an additional 220 hp, bringing total system output to an impressive 1,050 hp—50 more than the SF90 Stradale. Ferrari claims the car can exceed 330 km/h (205 mph), making it the fastest in the brand’s current hybrid lineup. The PHEV system is complemented by on-demand four-wheel drive and torque vectoring, ensuring exceptional traction and handling across all driving conditions.
Powertrain and Hybrid System
At the core of the 849 Testarossa is Ferrari’s award-winning F154FC twin-turbo V8 engine, fully re-engineered to achieve 830 hp while maintaining the same displacement. The engine features a larger, F80-derived turbocharger, optimized intercoolers, and an Inconel® exhaust manifold, delivering enhanced thermal management, reduced turbo lag, and the signature Ferrari V8 sound.
The hybrid system incorporates three electric motors: two on the front axle as part of the RAC-e system for torque vectoring and all-wheel drive, and one rear MGU-K motor derived from Formula 1 technology. Combined with a 7.45 kWh lithium-ion battery, the system allows for up to 25 km of pure electric driving in eDrive mode, while four selectable drive modes—eDrive, Hybrid, Performance, and Qualify—optimize performance and efficiency in all scenarios. Regenerative braking has been refined for smoother and more natural pedal feel.
Aerodynamics and Vehicle Dynamics
Ferrari engineers have given the 849 Testarossa a radical aerodynamic overhaul. Drawing inspiration from historic racing models like the 512 S and FXX-K, the car generates 415 kg of downforce at 250 km/h—a 25 kg increase over the SF90 Stradale—while improving cooling by 15%. The front underfloor, side intakes, and rear twin-tail design enhance airflow management, and an active rear spoiler switches between low-drag and high-downforce configurations in less than a second.
Vehicle dynamics are managed via the Ferrari Integrated Vehicle Estimator (FIVE), which creates a digital twin of the car in real time to optimize traction control, electronic differential, and e4WD system delivery. The updated suspension, ABS Evo braking system, and co-developed Michelin, Pirelli, and Bridgestone tyres ensure maximum grip, precise feedback, and a thrilling driving experience.
Styling, Interior, and Personalization
The 849 Testarossa’s design, led by Flavio Manzoni, merges futuristic architecture with historical cues from the 1970s Sports Prototypes. Sharp lines, sculpted doors, and a double-tail rear create a cab-forward, aerodynamic silhouette. The interior blends a single-seater cockpit feel with a berlinetta layout, featuring a central sail motif, floating dashboard, digital and mechanical steering wheel controls, and compatibility with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto. Optional Assetto Fiorano trim enhances performance with lighter components, carbon-fiber wheels, and advanced aerodynamics.
Personalization options include exclusive colors like Rosso Fiammante and Giallo Ambra, bespoke Alcantara trims, and customizable forged rims. Ferrari’s commitment to detail ensures every 849 Testarossa can be uniquely tailored to its owner, combining extreme performance with luxury and comfort.
With its combination of hybrid innovation, historical inspiration, and extreme performance, the 849 Testarossa PHEV represents Ferrari’s vision for the future of high-performance sports cars—blending electrification with the unmistakable thrill of a Prancing Horse.