Ferrari created a unique hybrid supercar for a U.S. customer, continuing its move away from V8-only models. The CZ26, derived from the SF90 Stradale, follows the HC25 as the second hybrid-exclusive commission in Ferrari’s limited-edition series.
Inspired by 1970s Italian industrial design
The CZ26’s exterior combines clean bodywork with striking, functional details—red highlights on ducts, splitters, and cooling vents. The design takes inspiration from industrial designers of the era but avoids retro styling. Only the SF90’s side intakes and roofline remain recognizable.
The front features a black strip spanning its width for lighting, reminiscent of the Luce. A silver splitter, like the one on the SF90 XX, extends forward, while revised cooling ducts aim to boost front-axle downforce. At the rear, the kamm tail and lighting echo the 12 Cilindri, though the twin exhaust outlets sit higher, closer to the SF90’s original placement.
The interior follows the same theme: black and silver with red accents. The seats come from the 296 Speciale, but the car lacks a physical starter button, a rare omission for Ferrari.
SF90’s hybrid powertrain carries over
The CZ26 retains the SF90’s drivetrain: a 3.9-liter twin-turbo V8 and three electric motors, delivering 986 horsepower and all-wheel drive. This system initially faced criticism, finishing last in a 2021 evo Car of the Year test. Ferrari later refined the SF90, leading to the SF90 XX, which influenced the development of its successor, the 849 Testarossa.
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The HC25 started this hybrid trend for Ferrari’s one-offs, and the CZ26 reinforces it. The setup offers greater tuning flexibility, and buyers seem to adopt the shift.
McLaren’s McL 6GT marks a return to manual transmissions, appealing to nostalgia. Ferrari, however, prioritizes performance and exclusivity. The CZ26’s design, with its functional aerodynamics and industrial influences, suggests a future where engineering drives form.
A custom model with no confirmed successor
Ferrari hasn’t announced another SF90-based one-off, though the platform’s adaptability makes it a strong candidate for future projects. The 849 Testarossa, which replaced the SF90, may eventually inspire its own limited editions, but Ferrari hasn’t confirmed any.
The CZ26’s debut aligns with rivals launching high-performance specials. Aston Martin’s Valen, a £1.5 million V12, and Koenigsegg’s CCGT1, a tribute to a lost Le Mans racer, highlight growing demand for custom hypercars. Ferrari’s offering stands out for its hybrid focus, reflecting industry trends.
