Naza Italia, the official importer and distributor for Ferrari in Malaysia, has just launched the newest plug-in hybrid from the brand, the Ferrari 296 GTS. The supercar was first revealed back in April and it is a very unique Ferrari. It is the first Ferrari to ever carry an electric motor. Not only that, the 296 GTS is also the first mid rear-engined berlinetta spider to make its debut in Southeast Asia.
Debuted at the Sepang International Circuit, the Ferrari 296 GTS uses the new turbocharged 120° V6, coupled with an electric motor capable of delivering a further 122 kW. This is the same powertrain found on the 296 GTB and is also paired with an 8-speed DCT and E-Diff. It has a total power output of 830hp which is nearly unheard of coming from a hybrid.
“The convertible version of Ferrari’s first 6-cylinder road-going car takes driving thrills to new heights. Subtly restyled to accommodate the open top, the Ferrari 296 GTS adds a sense of freedom to the fun of every journey. At the wheel of the 296 GTS, you get to enjoy the result of Ferrari’s exploration into electric technology and also have the ability to make the most of the weather and your mood, maximising driving pleasure,” said Damien Woo, General Manager, Ferrari Malaysia, Naza Italia Sdn Bhd.
Similar to the Ferrari 296 GTB, the Ferrari 296 GTS has been designed purely for the best performance output. The various engine drive modes adjust the performance level depending on the driver. In electric-only eDrive mode, the car can reach speeds of up to 135 km/h without resorting to the ICE. In Hybrid mode, on the other hand, the ICE backs up the electric motor when higher performance is required. The Performance option is ideal for pushing power while still maintaining battery efficiency while the Qualify option will provide maximum performance but will kill your battery life quick.
The exterior of the vehicle features a very clean look and design. With performance and simplicity in mind, there was a clear focus on minimising the impact of any modifications on the exterior bodywork.
Inside, the cockpit of the Ferrari 296 GTS was developed around the new concept of an entirely digital interface. Simplicity is heavily focused in the interior as well. Exclusive Italian leather trim seats are added for comfort while aerodynamic flaps have been integrated into the rear trim structure to reduce buffeting and increase comfort in open-top driving.
If all the power and performance in the 296 GTS is not enough, buyers can opt for the Assetto Fiorano package to truly maximize the output of the vehicle. It includes features like special GT racing-derived adjustable Multimatic shock absorbers optimised for track use; high downforce carbon-fibre appendages on the front bumper that can deliver an additional 10 kg of downforce and more extensive use of lightweight materials such as carbon-fibre for both cabin and exterior.
The Ferrari 296 GTS is available in Malaysia from RM 1,448,000 (before duties, customization options, taxes and insurance). For aftersales, Ferrari aims to provide its customers with the best experience possible, offering 7-years worth of regular maintenance before 120,000km of the cars life.
Regular maintenance (at intervals of either 20,000 km or once a year with no mileage restrictions), original spares and meticulous checks by staff trained directly at the Ferrari Training Centre in Maranello using the most modern diagnostic tools are just some of the advantages of the 7-Year Genuine Maintenance Programme.
