Ferrari SPA
Interview with Flavio Manzoni

Red Dot: What are your most important aesthetic and conceptual references outside the automotive world – and how have they shaped the appearance of the 12Cilindri?

In this particular case, we drew inspiration from the worlds of science fiction and the spirit of the space age. It’s no coincidence that we chose Florida as the location to present the car – near Cape Canaveral, the symbolic birthplace of space exploration. That era gave rise to countless design masterpieces, and not only in the world of cars. I’m thinking of iconic lights, avant-garde sofas and remarkable examples of Italian design from the 1970s. The visual language of Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey” also played a role. Back then, everything was driven by the pursuit of ultimate modernity – it was precisely this idea that inspired us in the development of our new V12. The Ferrari 12Cilindri is like a UFO – a flying saucer. It could hardly be described more aptly. And yet, we have never lost sight of our essence. Even without the badge, the characteristic Ferrari lines are instantly recognisable.

You describe Ferrari’s V12 models as “cars for the few”. Who did you have in mind when you developed the 12Cilindri?

The Ferrari 12Cilindri has been designed specifically for enthusiasts, but also for those who expect new standards in terms of performance, comfort, and design: for long-time Ferraristi who seek the unique emotions that only a Ferrari V12 can deliver, as well as new customers who dream of experiencing comfort and Italian design paired with exhilarating driving pleasure. The Ferrari 12Cilindri is aimed at connoisseurs who have a clear understanding of what defines Ferrari’s DNA – making it, quite genuinely, a car for a select few.