Safeguarding Secrets, Not Lives: The Focus of This Innovation
Ferrari, the iconic Italian luxury sports car manufacturer, has announced the development of a new safety technology designed to prevent damage to the front spoiler, side skirts, and rear diffuser during parking and maneuvering. The technology, named the Ferrari Protective Kit, is expected to be a feature in the company's "volume models" like the Amalfi, 296, or Purosangue.
The patent application for this innovative technology was filed in 2023, with the patent number US 2025/0249877 A1 being assigned. The patent was filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on August 7, 2025.
The Ferrari Protective Kit works by detecting objects on the road and evaluating their height relative to the car's height. If an obstacle that the front spoiler cannot overcome is detected, the Ferrari warns the driver with an acoustic signal. The system is not triggered by lifting the front of the car, ensuring a smooth driving experience.
While the system is primarily designed to prevent expensive and annoying damage during parking and maneuvering, it can potentially be used during normal driving as well. This includes when encountering speed bumps or deep potholes. It is unclear if the system can recognize the specific danger posed by each obstacle, but it is capable of monitoring all sides of the Ferrari for potential collisions.
The development of this new technology is part of Ferrari's ongoing efforts to improve safety features in its cars. It is worth noting that some manufacturers, including Porsche and Ferrari, already use lift systems for the front axle that sometimes work GPS-assisted.
However, it's important to note that the system is not intended to promote rear-end collisions. A harsh braking maneuver because of a harmless object like a plastic bag or foam part could be disproportionate. Instead, the system's main purpose is to address a common annoyance for Ferrari's customer base: scratched or severely damaged spoiler lips.
The new Ferrari emergency braking system sends a corresponding message to the infotainment system or a smartphone connected to the car, ensuring the driver is always informed about potential hazards. This technology, developed by Ferrari's engineers in Maranello, is a testament to the company's commitment to innovation and safety.
