Ferrari’s Hybrid V8 Powertrain might be poised for a 2019 launch

ABU DHABI: For what may come as, yet another upsetting setback for the Ferrari passionates, the Italian carmaker is contemplating to introduce a hybrid V8 engine, which might hit the roads sometime in 2019.

In its first-ever, Ferrari will have a hybrid system used in a production model, after its initial, brief introduction in the limited editions of the LaFerrari and the LaFerrari Aperta.

In 2014 also, much to the dismay of its loyalists, the automaker had launched the twin-turbocharged V8 engine in the Ferrari California T. The same engine went on to be incorporated in the 488 Italia and later in the GTC4Lusso T as well. A decision that effectively wiped away the original V8 from Ferrari's lineup.

Now, it seems that the auto giant is poised for another mega change. According to Sergio Marchionne, Chairman, and CEO Ferrari, the testbeds are already in the picture.

However, the company has refrained from giving out any figures on the expected efficiency or power outputs yet.

Marchione believes that built for a different role, the new powertrain would require being a more traditional hybrid. This leads many to speculate that Ferrari could, in fact, use a plug-in hybrid system.

However, the name of the vehicle that would use this system has still not been revealed by the car maker; even though its release coincides with the Ferrari's impending SUV, which is also lined up for launch in 2019.

How well this switch goes with the fans of the brand, remains to be seen.