The SF90 Spider is Ferrari's first hybrid sports car

MANILA: The spider form of the Ferrari SF90 Stradale, the SF90 Spider, was launched recently during an exclusive virtual event. It gave Ferraristi worldwide an exceptional introduction to the vehicle’s state-of-the art details and features .

Being the first production plug-in hybrid spider of the Prancing Horse, the SF90 Spider establishes new advancement and performance standards not just for the auto brand’s portfolio, but for the whole sports car industry.

The new convertible has the same aggressive supercar specification and excellent performance as the SF90 Stradale.

Due to the latest version of the signature retractable hard top architecture of Ferrari, it also contributes more driving flexibility and enjoyment to the package.

This renders the SF90 Spider a suitable vehicle for owners who demand the peak of Ferrari technology but want to experience the excitement of open-top driving.

The retractable hard top (RHT) form was adopted, and when it is lifted, it ensures maximum noise protection and insulation from the elements and it does not experience deformity at high speeds, and this in turn, provides better comfort and space for occupants.

The RHT is light, convenient, and compact. It can be retracted in only 14 seconds and can be deployed when the vehicle is on the move.

The key towards the success of the Ferrari RHT, which had its debut in the 458 Spider in 2011, and which has been continuously changed through the years, is that it occupies only 100 liters of space instead of 150 to 200 liters, which a conventional system needs.

The utilization of aluminum in its construction makes it about 40kg lighter compared to a traditional retractable hard top.

An adjustable electric rear window ensures supreme comfort for drivers and passengers even during high speeds, especially upon lowering of the RHT.

Similar to the SF90 Stradale, the SF90 Spider can also be availed with an added specification option for owners who want to take their track car vocation to a higher level.

The Assetto Fiorano package features an array of exceptional updates that differentiate it from standard vehicles, such as Multimatic shock absorbers that originated from the GT racing experience of the Ferrari and maximized for track purposes.

Others include the use of high-performance materials like titanium and carbon fiber that have eliminated 21kg off the weight of the vehicle, a road-homologated Michelin Pilot Sport Cup and carbon-fiber rear spoiler, and two tires made to enhance track performance due to the presence of fewer grooves and softer compound.

Finally, the Assetto Fiorano provides an alternative two-tone livery that highlights the racing vocation of the vehicle.

Apart from having a similar silhouette as the SF90 Stradale, the SF90 Spider has a distinct dynamic appeal when its top is lowered. When the roof is absent, it may appear to visually reduce the center of gravity of the vehicle — an impression that is further reinforced through the variation in the trim color on the roll-hoops that lead to the buttresses.

The front area of the vehicle features a prominent and aggressive profile with three air intakes and headlights that use matrix LED technology and active beam control for enhanced visibility in all driving conditions. The vehicle rear is marked by high exhaust pipes due to the maximization of the exhaust line layout.

The powertrain architecture of the SF90 Spider includes the V8 turbo ICE, an eight-speed DCT with E-diff, the RAC-e electric front axle with two autonomous electric motors that also offer all-electric propulsion, the MGUK electric motor positioned at the rear between the completely restyled eight-speed, oil-bath, dual-clutched gearbox (introduced on the SF90 Stradale) and the engine, the high-voltage battery, and the electric motor control system (inverter).

The new hybrid architecture needed comprehensive integration work on the various control logistics of the vehicle, which include the high-voltage system that controls the vehicle dynamics controls (traction, braking, torque vectoring), the powertrain, and the high-voltage system controls (inverter, MGUK, RAC-e, battery).

Inside, the SF90 Spider features a predominantly digital instrumentation — a central instrument cluster with a single 16-inch HD screen, a massive circular rev counter enclosed by the battery charge indicator, navigation screen with audio controls, a steering wheel that has a range of touch commands, indicators, windscreen wipers, and steering wheel mounted headlight control.

Other components that can be seen in the interior of the SF90 Spider are the gearshift gate, which has replaced the F1 bridge seen on previous Ferrari models, and the new ignition key, which is seen as an exact duplicate of the Ferrari Prancing Horse emblem located on the bonnet.

The incomparable quality standards and enhanced focus on client service strengthen the extended seven-year maintenance program, which is provided with the SF90 Spider. This program is also offered across the whole range and its coverage includes regular maintenance for the first seven years of the vehicle’s life.

Some of the benefits of the Genuine Maintenance Program are regular maintenance (at intervals of either 20,000 km or once a year with no mileage limitations), meticulous checking and original spares care of well-trained staff at the Ferrari Training Center in Maranello using cutting-edge diagnostic tools. The service can be availed on all global markets and in all dealerships on the official dealership network of Ferrari.

Photos from Ferrari

Also read: Leclerc drives Ferrari SF90 Stradale in short film