Quick Highlights:
- Ferrari reveals the cockpit of its first EV, the Luce, ahead of a full unveiling in May 2026.
- Interior developed in collaboration with Sir Jony Ive and LoveFrom.
- Aviation-style dials, physical switches, and recycled aluminium components define the cockpit.
- OLED displays, adjustable power distribution tech, and minimalist infotainment enhance the driving experience.
Ferrari Luce EV Interior Revealed — Aviation Style Cockpit
Ferrari has taken a significant step into the electric era by unveiling the interior and interface of its upcoming EV, Ferrari Luce, at a press event in San Francisco. The full car, including its exterior, is expected to be revealed in May 2026 in Italy, marking the final phase of the launch.
From what I’ve seen so far, Ferrari seems to be approaching electrification differently — focusing less on overwhelming digital screens and more on the tactile, driver-centric experience that enthusiasts associate with the brand.
A Collaboration with Design Icon Sir Jony Ive
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Luce project is Ferrari’s collaboration with LoveFrom, the creative collective founded by Sir Jony Ive and Marc Newson.
The partnership reportedly spanned five years, with LoveFrom working alongside the Ferrari Styling Centre led by Flavio Manzoni to shape every element of the interior — from materials to interface design.
Ferrari describes Luce not just as a technology shift but as a design philosophy, positioning electrification as a means to enhance the emotional and functional experience of driving.
Aviation-Inspired Cockpit and Steering Wheel Design
The cockpit draws strong inspiration from classic aviation instrumentation and Ferrari steering wheels from the 1950s and 1960s.
Key highlights include:
- A three-spoke steering wheel crafted from 100% recycled aluminium alloy, precision-machined and anodised for durability and texture.
- Triangular control pods integrated into the steering wheel.
- Rotary controls for driving modes: Range, Tour, and Performance.
- A red manettino switch for chassis modes: Ice, Wet, Dry, Sport, and ESC Off.
- Additional controls for damping and wipers, emphasizing practicality.
Personally, I find this mix of analogue-style controls with modern materials refreshing, especially at a time when many interiors rely almost entirely on touchscreens.
Advanced Instrument Cluster and OLED Displays
The driver-focused dashboard features a 12.5-inch instrument binnacle mounted directly to the steering column to reduce distractions.
Display elements include:
- A central dial showing speed with both a physical needle and digital readout.
- Battery level and range information positioned at the bottom.
- A left dial displaying power and regenerative braking percentages.
- A right dial showing tyre pressure and G-force data.
- An illuminated OLED layer capable of displaying warnings, navigation, and shift aids.
Ferrari confirmed that the displays use bespoke Samsung OLED technology, reinforcing the blend of traditional aesthetics with modern electronics.
Minimalist Infotainment and Unique Console Design
To the right of the instrument panel sits a 10.12-inch infotainment screen mounted on a ball-and-socket joint, allowing adjustable positioning. A built-in palm rest makes operating controls easier while driving.
Other notable features include:
- A top display area showing chronograph, clock, compass, and launch control information.
- A glass gear shifter made from Corning Gorilla Glass.
- An e-ink display that illuminates when the glass-aluminium key is docked in the magnetised centre console.
Compared with the oversized screens seen in many modern EVs, Ferrari’s restrained approach feels deliberate and, in my view, more aligned with performance-focused driving.
Innovative Technologies and Patents
Recent Ferrari patents suggest additional advanced features, including:
- Adjustable power distribution to individual wheels, potentially improving handling and performance.
- An illuminated transparent section in the Prancing Horse emblem that could display alerts or notifications.
These details indicate Ferrari is experimenting with new ways to integrate information without cluttering the cockpit.
Materials, Craftsmanship, and Manufacturing
Ferrari placed strong emphasis on materials and production techniques.
Highlights include:
- Precision-machined aluminium components created using advanced CNC technology.
- A specialised anodisation process that enhances durability and surface texture.
- Use of Gorilla Glass for durability, clarity, and scratch resistance.
The interior is designed as a single clean volume, with hardware and software developed together to ensure a cohesive experience.
The Meaning Behind the Name “Luce”
Ferrari says the name “Luce”, meaning “light” or “illumination” in Italian, represents clarity, inspiration, and a forward-looking vision for electrification.
Rather than defining the car purely by its electric powertrain, Ferrari frames Luce as a symbol of innovation shaped by tradition, merging racing heritage with modern lifestyles.
Launch Timeline
- October 2025: Technology platform unveiled in Maranello.
- Early 2026: Interior and interface revealed in San Francisco.
- May 2026: Full exterior and production model reveal planned in Italy.
Conclusion
From what Ferrari has shown so far, the Luce appears to be less about reinventing the driving experience and more about refining it for the electric age. The emphasis on physical controls, craftsmanship, and driver focus suggests Ferrari is determined to preserve its core identity even as it transitions to electrification.
If the final production model delivers on the promise of this interior, the Luce could set a new benchmark for how performance EV cabins are designed.
Frequently Asked Questions — FAQs
Q. What is the Ferrari Luce?
- The Ferrari Luce is Ferrari’s first fully electric sports car, with a full reveal expected in May 2026.
Q. Who designed the Ferrari Luce interior?
- The interior was developed in collaboration with LoveFrom, the design collective founded by Sir Jony Ive and Marc Newson, alongside Ferrari’s design team.
Q. What makes the Luce cockpit unique?
- It features an aviation-inspired layout, physical controls, OLED instrument displays, and recycled aluminium components, blending traditional Ferrari design with modern EV technology.
Q. Does the Ferrari Luce have a large touchscreen like other EVs?
- No. Ferrari opted for a compact 10.12-inch infotainment display, focusing on a driver-centric experience rather than large screens.
Q. When will the Ferrari Luce be fully revealed?
- Ferrari plans to unveil the complete car, including the exterior, in Italy in May 2026.
Q. What does the name “Luce” mean?
- “Luce” means “light” or “illumination” in Italian, symbolizing Ferrari’s vision for the future of electrification and design.
