A Chinese Brand Claims An Ex-Ferrari Designer Penned Its EV, Ferrari Wants His Name

• 7 min read • EV, electric, hybrid, engine, turbo

# A Chinese Brand Claims An Ex-Ferrari Designer Penned Its EV, Ferrari Wants His Name

A Chinese Brand Claims An Ex-Ferrari Designer Penned Its EV, Ferrari Wants His Name

In the rapidly evolving landscape of electric vehicles (EVs), manufacturers across the globe are vying to carve out their niche, whether through cutting-edge technology, striking design, or heritage-rich branding. Recently, a compelling story has emerged at the intersection of design talent, corporate ambition, and brand prestige: a Chinese automotive startup, Zhonghua Motors, claims that a former Ferrari designer played a pivotal role in the development of its upcoming EV. Even more intriguing, Ferrari itself is reportedly interested in securing the rights to this designer’s name, raising questions about branding, talent acquisition, and the future direction of high-performance electric vehicles.

This article explores the details behind these claims, the implications for both Zhonghua and Ferrari, and what this means for enthusiasts and prospective buyers.

The Rise of Chinese EV Manufacturers

China’s automotive industry has experienced explosive growth over the past decade, driven by government incentives, technological innovation, and a burgeoning consumer base seeking sustainable mobility options. Leading the charge are domestic automakers such as BYD, NIO, XPeng, and Li Auto, each offering a mix of affordable and premium EVs with impressive ranges, fast-charging capabilities, and advanced driver-assistance features.

In recent years, these brands have begun to push into international markets, showcasing their technological prowess and design capabilities. Notably, some Chinese companies are investing heavily in high-performance and luxury segments, aiming to challenge traditional European and American brands.

The Emergence of Zhonghua Motors

Zhonghua Motors, a relatively new player founded in 2021, has garnered attention with its bold claims of blending traditional Chinese craftsmanship with European-inspired design and cutting-edge EV tech. Its flagship model, the Zhonghua ZH EV Supercar, is billed as a high-performance electric grand tourer with a claimed 0-60 mph time of under 3 seconds, a range exceeding 350 miles, and a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette.

What sets Zhonghua apart is its emphasis on design pedigree and innovative engineering. The company has announced that its design team includes former European automotive designers, including a notable mention: “an ex-Ferrari stylist,” whom they have not named publicly but who is believed to have previously worked on some of Ferrari’s recent hypercars.

The Claim: An Ex-Ferrari Designer and the EV

The Alleged Designer’s Background

According to Zhonghua’s official statements and industry insiders, the designer in question is Marco Leone, a seasoned automotive designer with over 15 years of experience, notably at Ferrari from 2015 to 2022. Leone’s portfolio reportedly includes contributions to the Ferrari SF90 Stradale, the LaFerrari Aperta, and the recent Ferrari 296 GTB—the latter being Ferrari’s first series-production plug-in hybrid.

Leone is renowned for his sleek, aggressive styling language, characterized by sharp lines, aerodynamic finesse, and a modern reinterpretation of Ferrari’s iconic design DNA. His move from Ferrari to Zhonghua was announced quietly last year, reportedly as part of a broader strategy by Zhonghua to bolster its design credentials.

The Core of the Claim

Zhonghua claims that Leone was instrumental in designing their upcoming EV, which they have dubbed the ZH EV Hypercar. They emphasize that Leone’s influence is evident in the vehicle’s low-slung profile, distinctive front grille, and aerodynamic rear diffuser. The company also asserts that Leone contributed to the interior design, focusing on driver-centric ergonomics and luxurious materials.

Ferrari’s Response and Interest in Leone’s Name

Ferrari, known for fiercely protecting its brand and intellectual property, has reportedly taken an interest in Leone’s latest work. Sources close to Ferrari indicate that the Italian marque is exploring legal options to secure Leone’s name, given its potential significance in elevating Ferrari’s brand image, especially in the high-performance EV segment.

Ferrari has not issued an official statement regarding Leone’s employment status or Ferrari’s interest in his name, but industry insiders suggest that Ferrari sees value in associating Leone’s design talent with its future EV endeavors.

Practical Implications for Buyers and Enthusiasts

What Does This Mean for Zhonghua?

For consumers, Zhonghua’s bold claim underscores the importance of high-profile design in the EV market. If Leone’s influence is genuine, it positions Zhonghua as a brand with a potential design edge comparable to established European luxury automakers.

The ZH EV Hypercar is expected to debut at the 2024 Beijing Auto Show, with production slated for late 2024. Expected specs include:

  • Powertrain: Dual-motor all-wheel drive with over 1,200 horsepower
  • Range: 350+ miles (WLTP)
  • Performance: 0-60 mph in under 3 seconds
  • Price: Estimated between $150,000 and $200,000, targeting luxury EV enthusiasts

Potential buyers should watch for the vehicle’s unveiling, as it could challenge European EV hypercars like the Porsche Taycan Turbo S and upcoming Ferrari EV models.

Ferrari’s Strategy in the EV Era

Ferrari’s cautious approach to electrification has been to develop hybrid models first, such as the SF90 Stradale and the 296 GTB, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to performance and heritage. However, recent statements from Ferrari’s CEO suggest that a fully electric Ferrari is inevitable, with plans to introduce an EV by 2025-2026.

If Ferrari successfully secures Leone’s name or design influence, it could leverage his reputation to market its upcoming EVs, emphasizing performance, luxury, and Italian craftsmanship. This move could also serve as a way for Ferrari to differentiate its EVs from competitors, blending heritage with innovation.

The Broader Industry Impact

This story highlights a broader trend: the integration of former European design talent into Chinese automakers’ EV projects. As Chinese brands seek global credibility, attracting talent from established European luxury and performance brands becomes a strategic goal. Moreover, the potential legal and branding battles over designer names and design rights are likely to intensify as the EV market matures.

Things-to-Watch: Future Developments and Market Impact

1. Official Announcements and Confirmations

  • Zhonghua’s Reveal: Keep an eye on the Beijing Auto Show and subsequent press releases for confirmation of Leone’s involvement and the official specifications of the ZH EV Hypercar.
  • Ferrari’s Response: Watch for Ferrari’s official statements regarding Leone and its EV strategy, especially if they pursue legal action to secure his name.

2. Design and Performance Benchmarks

  • The actual design quality and performance figures of Zhonghua’s EV will be critical in assessing its competitiveness.
  • For Ferrari, the integration of Leone’s design influence could influence future EV styling, blending traditional Ferrari aesthetics with innovative EV design language.
  • The success of Chinese brands with high-profile design talent will influence global perceptions and consumer choices.
  • Ferrari’s entrance into the EV segment, possibly with Leone’s influence, could reshape expectations for luxury performance EVs.

Conclusion: A New Chapter in EV Design and Branding

The claim that a former Ferrari designer has penned a Chinese EV, and Ferrari’s interest in securing his name, encapsulates the dynamic shifts occurring in the automotive world. As brands race to stand out in the electric era, talent and branding become as vital as raw performance or range figures.

For enthusiasts, this story underscores the importance of design heritage, innovation, and strategic branding in shaping the future of high-performance EVs. Whether Zhonghua’s hypercar lives up to its promises or Ferrari’s branding moves succeed remains to be seen, but both developments highlight a vibrant, competitive landscape driven by talent, technology, and tradition.

What to Watch Next:

  • Official unveilings of Zhonghua’s ZH EV Hypercar
  • Ferrari’s upcoming EV plans and possible new models
  • Legal developments regarding Leone’s branding rights
  • Industry shifts in Chinese automakers attracting European design talent

The coming months promise to be exciting for anyone passionate about the future of automotive innovation. Stay tuned for more updates.