Ferrari has unveiled the interior of its upcoming all-electric vehicle, the Luce (Italian for “light”), a design collaboration with LoveFrom, the firm founded by former Apple Chief Design Officer Jony Ive and designer Marc Newson. The reveal marks a significant departure from recent Ferrari interiors, drawing inspiration from the company’s classic designs of the 1950s, 60s, and 70s.
The partnership with LoveFrom, announced in 2021, signals Ferrari’s commitment to a thoughtful and considered approach to its first battery-electric vehicle. Rather than simply swapping internal combustion components for electric ones, Ferrari appears to be fundamentally rethinking the driving experience, starting with the cabin.
The interior aesthetic, as described by those who have seen it, is characterized by a retro simplicity. It features clear, round gauges and brushed aluminum finishes, a deliberate move away from the capacitive panels that proved frustrating in models like the 296. A key focus appears to be on tactile controls – physical buttons and rocker switches – offering a more engaging and direct interaction for the driver. This is a notable shift, particularly given the industry trend towards increasingly screen-dominated interiors.
Perhaps the most iconic element of the new design is the steering wheel, which closely resembles the classic “Nardi” wheel found in many vintage Ferraris. However, LoveFrom has integrated modern functionality into the design. The horn buttons are now seamlessly incorporated into the spokes, and multifunction pods are positioned on the horizontal spokes, allowing Ferrari to maintain its “hands on the wheel” ergonomic philosophy. The wheel itself is constructed from CNC-milled recycled aluminum, resulting in a weight reduction of 400 grams compared to Ferrari’s standard steering wheels.
The instrument cluster is comprised of two displays stacked behind one another, a configuration that suggests a layered presentation of information. The central infotainment touchscreen is mounted on a pivot, allowing for adjustable positioning and potentially offering different modes of interaction. Further emphasizing the return to physical controls, the interior is replete with buttons and switches, seemingly avoiding the often-criticized “crash protection surrounds” used in some other automotive designs.
LoveFrom’s design philosophy, honed during Ive’s three decades at Apple, is evident in the attention to detail and the pursuit of perfection. The aesthetic is dominated by “squircles” and circles, shapes that were hallmarks of Apple’s design language under Ive, particularly during the iPhone 4 era. While initially appearing clinical, the interior is intended to reveal its charm through subtle details and satisfying tactile feedback.
Jony Ive, speaking about the project, emphasized the importance of the team he assembled. “Who I work with is more important than what I work on,” he stated, highlighting LoveFrom’s emphasis on craft, culture, and legacy. The firm operates as an atelier with a limited client list, prioritizing quality and enduring design over widespread commercialization.
LoveFrom, which was acquired by OpenAI last year for $6.5 billion, has previously undertaken projects such as the $60,000 Linn Sondek LP12 turntable. However, the Ferrari Luce represents one of the firm’s largest projects to date, both in terms of scope and literal dimensions. The firm currently employs around 60 people.
The Luce’s interior represents a deliberate attempt to bridge Ferrari’s heritage with the demands of an electric future. By prioritizing tactile engagement, classic design cues, and meticulous craftsmanship, LoveFrom and Ferrari are aiming to create an EV that feels distinctly like a Ferrari, despite its lack of a traditional internal combustion engine. The focus on physical controls is a particularly noteworthy aspect, suggesting a rejection of the prevailing trend towards minimalist, screen-centric automotive interiors. The design signals a belief that the driving experience should be about more than just technology; it should be about connection, engagement, and a sense of timeless quality.
The unveiling of the interior follows the reveal of the Luce’s chassis and battery pack in October, providing a more complete picture of Ferrari’s first all-electric offering. Further details about the vehicle’s performance, range, and features are expected to be released in the coming months.
