Report: Ferrari files for 4×4 hybrid system patent

We don’t know how we missed this one last week but according to a report by AutoCar, Ferrari has made a patent application for a four-wheel-drive hybrid system. The system could be fitted to Ferrari’s future front and rear-engine models.

Unlike your conventional hybrid system, Ferrari’s hybrid-technology separates the role of the engine and the electric-motor. Ferrari says that in its hybrid system, the electric motor will power one set of wheels while the engine powers the other set.

The Italian automaker has submitted six different layouts for the patent; however, in each layout, the engine drives the electric-motor, which then drives one pair of wheels powered by a on-board battery.

“The aim of the present invention is to provide a four-wheel – drive vehicle with hybrid propulsion…and being at the same time easy and inexpensive to produce,” said that patent filing. It said that the system is designed to improve handling while increasing fuel-economy.

AutoCar says that Ferrari could apply additional fuel-saving technologies such as a start/stop system, using only battery power when traveling up to 10 mph or adding a ‘city’ mode that allows your Ferrari to adapt to conditions when it isn’t traveling at “performance” levels.

Ferrari has yet to confirm any future hybrid models, so we’ll have to wait and see where this goes.

– By: Kap Shah

Source: AutoCar