Ferrari FF: The Strength of Being Different

The Ferrari FF has a four-wheel drive that operates like a kind of “full traction control” thanks to a sophisticated forecasting system integrated into the stability control, the on-board electronic structure (that manages and harmonizes the operation of the engine), the gearbox, F-1 Trac, E-Diff, ABS, suspensions. The operation of the four-wheel drive instantly determines the correct amount of torque for each wheel and the car also adopts a unique concept of transferring power to the front axle. The differential is removed and each half shaft has its own control clutch allowing the torque to be applied in a modulated way, depending on the needs at each wheel at any given moment. Besides being seamless in operation, the system is also lighter and it saves energy by reducing rotational drag.

The FF easily gets to grips with extreme road conditions, such as in the middle of the desert or snowing and iced surfaces. The interior enhances a unique allure, comfort and uniqueness. The new instrumental panel features the traditional rev counter, which also tells the driver what gear the car is, set between two high-resolution 5″ displays. The left-hand display lists the main vehicle status data as well as VDA (Vehicle Dynamic Assistance) output which show the controls activated in any given Manettino setting. A trip computer and parking sensor information are also featured. The right-hand display shows the speedometer, the main infotainment data and images from the front and rear parking cameras. The satellite pod to the left of the steering wheel manages the on-board instrument panel, located directly in front of the driver. The center console houses the F1 panel and its dynamic controls: the Launch Control button which sends maximum torque to the ground for spin-free, high performance starts in all conditions including snow and ice; reverse, and the Auto button to put the gearbox in automatic.

The FF new infotainment system is the result of an evolution of the Man-Machine interface. It features a 6.5″, high-contrast display with touch screen control; a Bluetooth connection with Audio Streaming to allow occupants to wirelessly listen to music from their own multimedia devices, a sat navigation with maps and 3D views, voice command function, two USB connections, and a display with alphanumeric keypad for phone dialing. It is also fully compatible with new-generation iPods and iPhones. The main functions are available either at the touch of a fingertip or through voice commands: drivers can simply order the system to make a telephone call or select a predetermined road route. The display graphics have been completely redesigned to make them user friendly. All of which makes the FF feels very much like home. Except a little faster, of course…Just a little.