Ferrari has confirmed that on July 4 it will present something special, fueling rumors about the preparation of a limited version of the 12Cilindri model with a manual transmission. Maranello is not revealing details, leaving room for speculation, but a recent patent application appears to confirm these assumptions.
Ferrari CEO’s statement
Speaking at a recent dealer conference in Las Vegas, Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna told attendees:
“In a few weeks, if you bear with me, you will see something new where we combined something from the past with a look to the future. Let’s just say, wait until July 4th. It’s very soon.”
If he means the 12Cilindri with a manual, Ferrari fans are in for a real sensation.
New patent technology
It has been 14 years since Ferrari last produced a road car with a manual transmission. It seems that for the new product, the company is not choosing a conventional “manual”. Instead, a recent patent application by the brand describes a new type of transmission with shift-by-wire technology, similar to that used in the Koenigsegg CC850.
Manual on demand
This means drivers will be able to operate the car like a traditional “manual” with a six-speed gated shifter or choose an automatic transmission mode. Images in the application show R, N, D, and M buttons on the lever, allowing quick and easy changes to its functionality.
How it works
According to the application, discovered by CarBuzz, the lever moves along two axes, and a pin at its base connects to a small electronic control unit. Spring-loaded contact rollers provide an authentic manual gear shifting feel, and Ferrari notes that their resistance can be electronically adjusted to mimic the behavior of a traditional “manual”.
Compatibility with modern units
A separate Ferrari application shows that this system can be connected to Ferrari’s existing dual-clutch automated transmission, particularly in the 12Cilindri. This means it could be a relatively simple “plug-and-play” system that can be paired with a clutch pedal.
Future of the new transmission
Given the obvious effort Ferrari has put into developing this new transmission, do not be surprised if it is added to other models. Currently, rumors suggest that the limited six-speed model will be called the 12Cilindri MM and may be offered in coupe and Aperta body styles.
This news is significant for the automotive industry as it demonstrates that even in an era dominated by automatic transmissions and electrification, Ferrari is ready to invest in developing technologies that return a sense of full control to the driver. The patent for a hybrid system that combines classic “manual” with modern electronic “brains” could be not just a nod to the past, but a new benchmark in creating sports cars where authentic driving sensations merge with the convenience of modern technology. If this system indeed appears on production models, it could become a unique market offering that sets Ferrari apart from competitors who have completely abandoned manual transmissions.