Ferrari’s New Jony Ive–Designed EV Is Swathed in Glass and Aluminum

Ferrari’s Luce: A Masterclass in Tactile Luxury and Digital Innovation

Ferrari has once again redefined the boundaries of automotive design with the unveiling of its latest masterpiece, the Luce. In a world increasingly dominated by touchscreens and digital interfaces, Ferrari, in collaboration with design legend Jony Ive, has taken a bold step back to the future—reintroducing the tactile elegance of physical buttons, knobs, and levers, all while seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology. The result is a car that feels as luxurious as it looks, offering drivers an experience that is both intuitive and deeply satisfying.

A Return to Tangible Elegance

At the heart of the Luce’s design philosophy is the belief that driving should be an immersive, hands-on experience. Jony Ive, known for his minimalist yet functional approach during his time at Apple, emphasized the importance of physical controls in keeping the driver’s focus on the road. “When you look at this, you are not wondering, ‘How many layers deep am I going to have to go to find something to make my bottom warm?'” Ive remarked, highlighting the frustration often associated with overly complex digital interfaces.

The Luce’s interior is a testament to this philosophy. Every surface you touch is crafted from premium materials—aluminum, glass, or leather—creating a sensory experience that is both refined and robust. Ferrari employees proudly pointed out that the only plastic components in the car are a few gears in the control panel, underscoring the brand’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

The Art of the Click

The tactile feedback of the Luce’s controls is nothing short of extraordinary. The aluminum buttons offer a satisfying click, while the glass knobs glide smoothly under your fingertips. One of the standout features is the air vents, which feature aluminum shields that flip open and closed with a simple twist. These vents are so satisfying to use that attendees at the unveiling event found themselves fiddling with them repeatedly, much to the amusement of Ferrari’s staff.

Corning and the Magic of Glass

Ferrari’s partnership with Corning, the company behind Gorilla Glass, has resulted in a car that is as durable as it is beautiful. The Luce boasts over 40 glass components, including buttons, screens, and even the casing of the center console and gear-shift knob. Ive described glass as a “truthful material,” and its use in the Luce certainly elevates the car’s premium feel. Despite concerns about the fragility of glass, Corning has conducted extensive crash tests to ensure that the Gorilla Glass used in the Luce is both safe and resilient.

A Steering Wheel That Feels Like Home

The Luce’s steering wheel is a familiar sight for Ferrari enthusiasts, retaining the iconic three-spoke design that has become synonymous with the brand. However, this wheel is far from ordinary. Its unique shape, reminiscent of a dumpling or a flat tire, is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The wheel features a leather grip and clicky aluminum buttons positioned perfectly for easy access to signals, music controls, and volume adjustments.

The Binnacle: A Digital Marvel

Behind the steering wheel lies the binnacle, a console that houses the odometer, speedometer, and other essential indicators. At first glance, the binnacle resembles a large iPhone in landscape mode, with three Apple Watch-like screens positioned in the center. These convex lenses, supplied by Samsung, create a parallax effect that magnifies the circular OLED screens, adding depth and dimension to the display. Additional icons in the top-right corner provide real-time information about road conditions, ensuring that the driver is always informed.

Despite the dominance of screens, the Luce retains a touch of analog charm. The needles of the speedometer and odometer are made of aluminum and polycarbonates, creating a striking contrast when the car is off. In this state, the dials’ screens go dark, and the needles appear to float in a black void. When the car is turned on, the screens light up, illuminating the needles and bringing the binnacle to life.

The Control Panel: A Nod to the Past

To the right of the steering wheel sits the control panel display, a rectangular screen with smooth, curved edges and almost no bezel. Its design is reminiscent of an iPad, but its functionality is anything but ordinary. Mounted on a ball-and-socket joint, the screen can be repositioned with ease, evoking memories of the iconic iMac G4. This flexibility allows drivers to customize their viewing angle, ensuring optimal comfort and convenience.

The Future of Driving

The Ferrari Luce is more than just a car; it is a statement. It represents a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, where the tactile pleasure of physical controls meets the convenience of digital technology. In an era where touchscreens dominate, Ferrari and Jony Ive have dared to challenge the status quo, proving that sometimes, the old ways are the best ways.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the Luce serves as a reminder that luxury is not just about what you see, but also about what you feel. With its exquisite craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled attention to detail, the Ferrari Luce is poised to set a new standard for what a modern supercar can be.

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