The patent, which was filed in 2023 and published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on February 29, 2024, outlines a system that would generate no greenhouse gases and minimal amounts of other pollutants like carbon monoxide and particulates.
The patent application is titled "CAR PROVIDED WITH A HYDROGEN-POWERED INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE," but it's only one of several documents that describe a number of unorthodox systems for a potential sports car.
Ferrari's move is part of a broader trend among automakers to explore alternative fuels and technologies to reduce the environmental impact of vehicles. Hydrogen combustion engines burn hydrogen instead of gasoline, emitting only water vapor as a byproduct. However, there are challenges associated with hydrogen, such as its lower energy density compared to gasoline, which requires larger volumes of onboard storage to deliver equivalent range.
The patent also suggests that a car with a hydrogen-combustion engine will be "longer and heavier" than a similar car equipped with a petrol-powered internal-combustion engine, due to the need for more extensive hydrogen storage. Despite these challenges, Ferrari is looking into this technology as a potential way to maintain the performance and excitement of their vehicles while addressing climate-change concerns.
Production Model of Hydrogen Engine Cars
As of now, there is no official announcement from Ferrari regarding the release date of a production model featuring the hydrogen-powered internal-combustion engine. While Ferrari has filed a patent for such technology, it appears they are still in the exploratory phase.The company is already producing plug-in hybrid models and plans to launch its first full-electric vehicle in 2025. However, they have not established a timeline for transitioning to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. It's important to note that the development and release of new automotive technologies can take several years, especially when it involves significant changes like switching to hydrogen power.
Ferrari is making significant strides towards electrification with a clear vision for the future. The company plans to launch its first electric car in the fourth quarter of 2025.
By 2026, Ferrari aims for 60% of its lineup to be comprised of plug-in hybrid models. The remaining 40% will be internal combustion engine vehicles. The goal is to increase the proportion of EVs to 40%, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) to 40%, and internal combustion engines to 20% by 2030.
Despite the shift to electric, Ferrari is committed to maintaining its signature performance and driving experience. The electric models will feature multimaterial construction using carbon fiber and aluminum for enhanced strength and rigidity. Ferrari is working on creating a unique sound signature for its electric vehicles to ensure they retain the soul-stirring engine notes that the brand is known for.
The move towards electric vehicles is part of Ferrari's broader strategy to become carbon neutral by 2030.
Ferrari's journey into electric power has been gradual, marked by hybrid models like the SF90 Stradale, which combines a twin-turbocharged V8 engine with three electric motors¹. The company's electric vision signifies a bold step towards sustainability without compromising on the exhilarating Ferrari experience that fans and drivers have come to expect.
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