Watch: Pope Leo XIV Checks Out Ferrari's Controversial Luce Electric Car

Ferrari recently introduced its first electric car called the Luce. Before becoming a sensation, the electric car became a centre of controversy. However, talking of things in favour of the Italian marque, Pope Leo XIV gave the brand his blessings by an exclusive viewing that took place at the Pope's summer residence in Castel Gandolfo, a place in the south of Rome. His holiness examined the car in the presence of Ferrari President John Elkann and factory test driver Raffaele De Simone.

Pope Leo XIV tests drives the new Ferrari Luce, the Prancing Horse's first fully electric car, and its first with five seats.

The Pope didn't get to keep the car, probably didn't like the handling, you know prefers American, however Ferrari President John Elkann gave the car's… pic.twitter.com/3R181O9FsG

— Catholic Sat (@CatholicSat) May 26, 2026

Pope Leo XIV Examining Ferrari Luce

During the examination, the Pope inspected the car's design and its unique interior, which set it apart from all other Ferraris. During the inspection, Pope questions Elkann, "Is this the first four-door Ferrari?" Elkann replied, saying, "The first five-seater." He also shed light on the vehicle's features and everyday utility.

Also Read: Ferrari Luce EV Breaks Cover With Unorthodox Design: 1035 HP, 530 Km Range

The Pope also sat in the driver's seat, checking the design by former Apple designers Sir Jony Ive and Marc Newson. The video shared on social platforms shows Ferrari test driver Raffaele De Simone kneeling beside the cockpit, walking His Holiness through the controls. During this, the Pope checked out the controls around the steering wheel.

Also Read: E100 Fuel Explained: Meaning, Benefits, And Why Automakers Are Talking About It

Controversy Around Ferrari Luce

While the design of the Ferrari's first electric car stands out, the purists are not impressed by the car's appearance. Many social media users believe that the car has a tall hatchback-style body. As per the designers, the design has been made to fit its 880V battery pack. The design also offers a drag coefficient of just 0.254 Cd, achieved without active aerodynamics.

When discussing performance, pressing the accelerator unleashes up to 1,035 horsepower and boasts an estimated range of approximately 530 kilometers. Central to the Luce's design is a quad-motor configuration, where each wheel is powered individually. The rear motors deliver 355 kW each, while the front ones generate 105 kW apiece, resulting in a total output of up to 1,035 horsepower. These motors function at exceptionally high speeds, with the front units capable of reaching 30,000 revolutions per minute.