Ferrari is finally giving in to the environmental demands to lower their fuel consumption and CO2 level, as they confirm the use of hybrid technology in future models. The good news is, that will save their V12 engines. V12s are part of Ferrari and Lamborghini super cars’ character and if going hybrid is the only way to keep them alive, so be it.

According to Ferrari boss Amedeo Felisa the company considered alternative powertrains to meet their environmental goals, and decided using hybrid systems and their F1-derived KERS system is the way to go to save the V12 layout.

A hybrid Ferrari might not sound right, but if anything, it would be more powerful than the current petrol units, a point Felisa is quick to mention. But he also says “Our hybrid system won’t just be about creating power, but saving energy, too. Yes, that technology is expensive today, but the road ahead is open and evolution will bring down the cost and weight disadvantages.”

Ferrari, as you know, recently launched the F12 berlinetta with a 730hp V12 engine, so the hybrid plans are not due for at least a couple years. Chances are the first of Ferrari Hybrid V12s debut in the next Ferrari Enzo, currently in development.

Ferrari is also considering six-cylinder engines for smaller models.

via Autocar