Ferrari might be preparing for a surprising return to its past. As the company gets ready to launch its first electric car later this year, there are strong hints that something very traditional could make a comeback—the manual gearbox.
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Reports suggest that Ferrari is exploring the idea of reintroducing the classic gated manual transmission. But this won’t be for regular models. Instead, the manual gearbox could be reserved for Ferrari’s ultra-exclusive Icona series. These special cars, like the Monza SP1, SP2, and Daytona SP3, are built in limited numbers for Ferrari’s most loyal and wealthy clients.
Not Just a Nostalgic Idea
The move isn’t just about nostalgia. Ferrari’s Chief Product Development Officer, Gianmaria Fulgenzi, confirmed there’s serious interest in a modern Ferrari with a manual transmission. He said that while it’s not likely to appear in the standard lineup, a future Icona model could feature a three-pedal setup.
Even celebrities are part of the buzz. Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton has reportedly supported the idea. He’s said to be interested in a modern version of the legendary Ferrari F40. Hamilton has even suggested a name—F44—as a tribute to his racing number.
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The Last Manual Ferrari
Ferrari stopped offering manual gearboxes more than a decade ago. The last model to have it was the Ferrari California, which ended production in 2012. Since then, all Ferrari cars have used fast and efficient dual-clutch automatic transmissions.
But many purists still prefer the feeling of shifting gears manually. For them, it’s not just about speed. It’s about connection, control, and a more emotional driving experience.
Technical Challenges
Adding a manual gearbox to a powerful V12 Ferrari won’t be simple. Fulgenzi explained that it would require changes to how the car manages torque. Otherwise, the clutch could become too hard to use. Because of this, the car may not offer the full performance of an automatic Ferrari. But it would offer something else—pure driving pleasure.
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Building a manual transmission just for a low-volume model is expensive. That means a future manual Ferrari will likely come with a very high price. Still, Ferrari has already shown that there’s strong demand for unique cars. The Daytona SP3, which costs around $2.2 million, sold out quickly.
Hope for Driving Purists
If Ferrari does go ahead with a manual transmission, it will mark a big moment for car lovers. It won’t be for everyone, but for those who dream of driving a Ferrari the old-fashioned way—with a clutch pedal and a metal-gated shifter—it could be the perfect tribute to the brand’s racing history.