Ferrari’s first electric car gets a voice: Here’s what it sounds like

Ferrari is poised to debut its first electric vehicle (EV) by the end of this year, and fans of the brand’s iconic engine roars have reason to pay attention. Spy footage reveals the EV, codenamed F222, testing with a unique sound system designed to emulate combustion engine noises.

The system, based on a patent Ferrari filed roughly two years ago, amplifies the sounds of electric motors and directs them out of the rear, giving the EV a voice of its own. The sound is designed to remain subtle during quiet cruising but comes to life as drivers push the throttle. While the prototype’s bassy tones differ from Ferrari’s classic V8s and V12s, they aim to preserve the sensory thrill of driving a Ferrari—albeit with a controversial twist.

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Testing under wraps

The test mule spotted in action sports a crossover-coupe body, borrowing parts from existing Ferrari and Maserati models, with the final design remaining a mystery. Whether Ferrari opts for a crossover, sports car, or supercar format, the EV’s design will no doubt be a big indication of the brand’s design direction moving forward.

In a brief clip shared by the Instagram user @Varryx_, Ferrari's electric test mule emits a distinct, combustion-like rumble as it rolls past the camera. The account owner notes that the sound originates from behind the rear bumper, with the visible tailpipes serving only as decoys. However, it’s hard to gauge how the system might perform at full throttle.

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CEO Benedetto Vigna has assured fans that Ferrari EVs will not be silent, highlighting the importance of sound in maintaining the brand’s identity. Drawing inspiration from systems like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N’s artificial exhaust notes, Ferrari’s approach could offer drivers a range of customizable sound profiles.

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A pricey evolution

Ferrari’s entry into the EV market is set to be an exclusive one. Reports suggest the price could exceed $500,000, placing it firmly in the hyper-luxury segment. With a debut expected in late 2025 and sales slated for 2026, the EV represents a significant step in Ferrari’s adaptation to an electrified future.

However, the challenge remains: Can artificial sounds and high-tech design satisfy purists who equate Ferrari with the visceral experience of internal combustion engines? And if so, can the automaker convince Ferrari diehards to fork over hundreds of thousands of dollars for an EV?

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Final thoughts

Ferrari’s first EV is a bold experiment that promises to blend new technology with a reverence for the brand’s traditions. For some purists, the words “EV” and “Ferrari” are a nonstarter, but the Italian automaker is making a big bet that it can bring people around to performance EVs.

Whether the fake exhaust noise wins over fans or fuels skepticism, it nevertheless signals that Ferrari has a clear vision for what its first EV will sound like. We’re withholding judgment until we get to hear it really open up. Hopefully, it’ll have a prettier body by then.

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