Ferrari Plans For Hybrid Versions of Every Model

“This is a first step of a long project,” he said, “and we want within three years — maximum four — to have a hybrid Ferrari car ready for every single product of our range. In three years, we aim to cut emissions by a minimum of 35 percent.”

Emissions, in fact, have much to do with the Prancing Horse’s push for hybrid vehicles.  By 2012, European automakers’ fleets will have to emit an average of 140 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometer or better, and there may be no special dispensation for even the smallest cottage-industry manufacturer.

Supercar manufacturers are addressing this in different ways. Lamborghini feels it can survive by building lighter cars made with more carbon fiber and smaller engines, while Ferrari and Porsche are taking the hybrid approach. The HY-KERS system shown in Geneva allows the 599 to run under electricity only during the EU urban cycle, but during longer runs or if the driver “accidentally” floors the accelerator pedal, that where the powerful  V-12 comes to life.