Ferrari is a different kind of car company, which means that it can do things a little differently. Rather than updating its cars with a refresh, it introduces brand-new models. Which means that we’re probably looking at the as-yet unnamed followup to the SF90 Stradale.
Although it looks a lot like Ferrari’s V8 hybrid hypercar, subtle changes suggest a raft of changes that will likely make a big difference for the new model. One thing that won’t change is that this will also be an electrified vehicle, as revealed by the yellow stickers on the hood and doors.
Naturally, we would expect some upgrades for the next-generation model, but as it stands, the SF90’s 4.0-liter V8 engine and a trio of electric motors combine to deliver 986 hp (735 kW/1,000 PS) in its base trim, and 1,016 hp (158 kW/1,030 PS) in its big-winged XX version. While it may feel like there will be diminishing returns from chasing more power, there are likely gains to be made perfecting the tuning and lowering the weight of its electric assistance system.
Read: Ferrari’s F250 Hypercar Will Make SF90 XX Seem Pedestrian Even If It Swaps V12 For V6
The camouflage and the early stage at which the test mule appears to be make it hard to glean too much information about the car. However, some notable changes as compared to the SF90 hint at what Ferrari is focusing on.
An enlarged side air intake and a modified front grille suggest that Maranello engineers are working to master the air as it moves over the car. Meanwhile, higher rear wheel arches suggest that the automaker may be modifying the rear suspension geometry. Whether that’s being done to improve handling or to allow for changes under the hood remains to be seen. However, it all points to bigger changes under the skin that will likely mean even more insane performance.
Still in the early stages of development, there are a lot of unknowns regarding the followup to the SF90. We’re likely to learn more in the future, and could see a market launch by 2025. Based on other spy photos we’ve seen, it probably won’t be Ferrari’s flagship by the time it comes out, and will be surpassed by the more aggressive-looking F250 hypercar.
