Perhaps, during a conversation about Ferrari, you’ve heard about the distinctive Manettino dial, a rotary switch located at the bottom right of the steering wheel in Cavallino Rampante sports cars. It may have sparked your curiosity without fully understanding its function, but don’t worry. In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at what it is and the functions that have elevated this component to the status of an icon in Maranello’s sports cars.
The term Manettino comes from Italian and translates to “little lever.” This multifunction dial offers drivers the possibility to easily and quickly customize various engine functions and other vehicle settings, adapting to their preferences or road conditions.
With various driving modes available, each one provides a unique experience by allowing adjustments to engine response, gear shift speed, steering feel, the operation of the “E-Diff” limited-slip differential, and electronic driving aids. Although specifications may vary depending on the specific model, these are the different driving modes available on the Manettino and their features:
- Wet: Designed for wet surfaces, this mode maximizes traction control intervention, improving stability in wet or slippery road conditions.
- Sport: The default configuration balances safety, stability, and performance. It increases engine response for a more agile and powerful performance. Additionally, it has the capability to adjust the speed and smoothness of gear shifts, optimizing a more sporty experience.
- Race: Specifically conceived for the track, this mode enhances the engine’s aggressiveness and power, providing performance focused on the racing environment. It also has the ability to adjust the suspension to increase its stiffness.
- Comfort: Configures the suspension for a smoother and more comfortable ride, ideal for journeys on conventional roads.
- CT Off (Traction Control Off): Deactivates traction control, allowing the driver greater control over the power transmitted to the wheels.
- ESC Off (Electronic Stability Control Off): Aimed at experienced drivers, this mode completely deactivates the electronic stability control system, allowing for greater control and controlled drifts.
Hybrid generation, arrival of the ‘eManettino’
With the introduction of the Ferrari SF90 Stradale in 2019, Ferrari’s first plug-in hybrid sports car, the innovative ‘eManettino’ also made its debut. Located on the left side of the steering wheel and operated through touch controls, this selector allows for the choice between four operating programs in the plug-in hybrid power unit: eDrive, Hybrid, Performance, and Qualify.
This energy flow management device influences the performance of the electric motor, the Transition Management Actuator (TMA) decoupling actuator, and the regeneration of energy from the battery during deceleration phases. The characteristics of each of these programs are as follows:
- eDrive (eD): Facilitates driving in fully electric mode, reaching a maximum speed of 135 km/h without the intervention of the internal combustion engine.
- Hybrid (H): The default mode upon starting the car. The internal combustion engine comes into play to assist the electric motor when higher performance is required, optimizing energy regeneration phases to the maximum without sacrificing performance.
- Performance: Keeps the internal combustion engine always active, working in conjunction with the electric motor to deliver optimal performance at all times, without neglecting battery energy regeneration.
- Qualify: Prioritizes the car’s maximum performance, with both engines delivering their full potential, albeit with a lower battery recharge as a trade-off.
Overall review
Thus, in Ferrari’s plug-in hybrid models, the new eManettino is incorporated alongside the Manettino. While the Manettino allows you to adjust the response of the internal combustion engine, the eManettino provides you with control to optimize the performance of the electric motor, taking Ferrari’s potential to new heights. If you are eager to experience this exciting combination, we invite you to enjoy our fleet‘s Ferrari 296 GTB, where you can firsthand experience the synergy between the Manettino and the eManettino.
