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FERRARI has confirmed that it will be pulling the covers off of its first crossover model next Tuesday, September 13.

The Italian carmaker hasn’t confirmed specifications as yet, but it is widely reported that a V12 engine will be offered in the range-topping version, alongside a V8 plug-in-hybrid powertrain.

According to Autocar, Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna recently told European media that the upcoming crossover would be 100% Ferrari. “From my and our test drives in the hills around Maranello I can tell you that it’s a true sports car, and unlike any other,” Vigna said. | IOL

Motoring

MAX Verstappen will be 25 years old when he takes his second Formula One world title but whether it is days or weeks after his birthday in Singapore at the end of September remains to be seen.

As it stands, Verstappen could go on holiday until the Mexican Grand Prix at the end of October – skipping Italy, Singapore, Japan and the United States – and still be leading. Wrapping things up in Singapore on October 2 could be a possibility, although Japan seven days later looks more likely depending on what happens in this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix. |

Reuters

Ferrari

F1

Off-road

THE Extreme E electric off-road series launched an initiative this week to increase diversity in motorsport by creating opportunities for those from under-represented groups.

The Racing for All initiative draws on the findings of a commission set up and funded by Britain's seven-times F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton, who also has a team in Extreme E. “We know from the findings of The Hamilton Commission that our industry is a tough place to break into, particularly for those from underrepresented backgrounds,” said Hamilton. Racing for All “had to be something which led to real change, and I believe (it) does just that". | Reuters

iCar anyone?

CONSUMERS are keen to buy an Apple car before one even exists. Strategic Vision just released the results of an annual study that this year reached

200 000 new-vehicle owners. For the first time, the consulting firm included Apple among the more than 45 brands it surveyed consumers about.

The findings: 26% said they would “definitely consider” buying a set of wheels from the iPhone maker, behind only Toyota and Honda. And 24% ticked the top box (“I love it”) when asked their impression of the quality of the brand, beating all others by a wide margin. | Bloomberg

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