Ferrari is pushing the boundaries of internal combustion engine technology once again. While many automakers shift their focus towards electrification, Ferrari has filed a patent for an innovative V12 engine featuring oval-shaped pistons and a unique linked conrod system. This breakthrough could allow Ferrari to maintain its legendary V12 powertrain while integrating hybrid technology without significantly increasing engine size.
What’s Different About Ferrari’s Oval Pistons?
The patent, first uncovered by AutoGuide, reveals "stadium-shaped" pistons that resemble the layout of a Nascar circuit. Unlike traditional oval pistons, these have a rectangular profile with rounded ends. The key benefit? A more compact engine design.
By positioning the longer axis of the pistons from the outer cylinder wall towards the engine’s center, Ferrari aims to shorten the length of a V12, making it more adaptable for hybrid powertrains. This design could also offer advantages in optimizing valve size and configuration for improved efficiency.
Linked Conrods: A Game-Changing Mechanism
Beyond its unique piston design, Ferrari's patent also introduces an unconventional connecting rod system. Instead of each piston having its conrod attached separately to the crankshaft, this setup features linked conrods. The bearing cap of one rod is integrated with the base of the adjacent piston rod, forming a flexible joint that allows the secondary rod to move smoothly.
This could potentially reduce engine weight, improve efficiency, and optimize mechanical balance, making Ferrari’s V12 not only powerful but also more fuel-efficient in an era of increasing emission regulations.
What Does This Mean for Ferrari’s Future?
The patent suggests that Ferrari is exploring ways to preserve its iconic V12 while adapting to modern hybrid demands. The new F80 hypercar debuted with a V6, a decision that sparked controversy among Ferrari enthusiasts. Could this new oval-piston V12 be Ferrari’s answer for a future hybrid hypercar that retains the soul of a high-revving, naturally aspirated engine?
Alternatively, this compact V12 could also be used to optimize weight distribution in front-engined models like the Purosangue SUV and 12Cilindri GT, both of which currently lack hybrid power but will likely need it in future iterations.
Not the First Oval-Piston Experiment
Ferrari isn’t the first brand to experiment with oval pistons. In the 1970s, Honda developed a V4 race bike with true oval pistons to accommodate eight valves per cylinder. However, the design struggled with piston ring sealing issues, limiting its success.
Ferrari’s new take on the concept, with a perpendicular orientation to the crankshaft and linked conrods, suggests a fresh engineering approach that could sidestep previous challenges.
While this is still a patented concept rather than a confirmed production engine, it signals Ferrari’s commitment to internal combustion innovation, ensuring that the V12 legacy lives on in a more efficient, hybrid-friendly form.
Adrian is an Editor. Psychology graduate with over 4 years in the automotive industry, 3 in front of the camera. Occasionally seen at his family owned tyre shop. He will only buy cars that pass the big bottle test.
