Ferrari LaFerrari (2013). A prototype of the hybrid supercar for sale

This Ferrari LaFerrari prototype based on the 458 Italia will be put up for sale.

A Ferrari 458 Italia significantly modified to serve as a prototype for the LaFerrari in 2011 will be offered at auction. It is equipped with a V12 hybrid, modified bodywork and additional exterior panels. It is not homologated for the road.

The auction to be held on May 14, 2022 in Monaco under the leadership of RM Sotheby’s will include among its prizes, each more exclusive than the other, a prototype of Ferrari LaFerrari. This is one of the “mules” used during the development of the hybrid supercar marketed in 2013. It has been owned by a privileged Ferrari customer since 2016.

Ferrari LaFerrari red — The definitive Ferrari LaFerrari.

A Ferrari 458 with hybrid V12 engine

The car in question here is the M6 prototype of the Ferrari F150, code name of the LaFerrari. It is based on a 458 Italia (type F142), therefore taking up the aluminum chassis and a large part of the bodywork of the berlinetta. But under its back cover, the original V8 gave way to a V12, model F140FB, derived from the engine of the Ferrari FF while the definitive LaFerrari is powered by the F140FE block and has a carbon fiber monocoque. The M6 is equipped with a hybrid system cooled by a roof air intake, replaced on the standard model by side vents. The prototype was tested under various conditions between May 2011 and December 2012.

Ferrari LaFerrari prototype exhaust — The body of this “mule” was cut in several places.

Ferrari LaFerrari prototype engine — A V12 has been shoehorned into the rear of this 458.

TO READ. Ferrari F8 (2022). Stopping orders and ending a line

A Ferrari in work clothes

Far from displaying the neat appearance of a production Ferrari, this matt black prototype has been cut out in several places to allow engineers to access various mechanical or electronic elements. Under the hoods as in the passenger compartment there are exposed cables, ventilation ducts and specific control panels. The car is still equipped with light brown leather seats.

Ferrari LaFerrari prototype body — Development body panels are supplied with the car.

One of the most interesting attributes of this very special 458 is thatit is accompanied by the panels which were fixed over its bodywork for purposes that are not specified. It could be a question of studying the aerodynamics of the vehicle, its distribution of the masses, or quite simply of hiding the details. Note that the car is not approved for use on the open road. That shouldn’t deter Ferrari collectors from taking an interest in this piece of history. No price estimate has been communicated; the car could be exchanged for several million euros.