Florida Billionaire Secures Ferrari's First Electric Model for $40 Million

Herbert Wertheim, a billionaire based in Florida and an Apple shareholder since the company’s 1980 IPO, emerged as the winning bidder for the first production Ferrari Luce, the Italian marque’s inaugural electric vehicle. The auction, held by RM Sotheby’s, concluded with a price tag of roughly $40 million, marking one of the most expensive sales for a single car in recent memory.

The Luce, internally referred to as “Chassis Zero,” represents Ferrari’s initial step into fully electric supercars. Its design process was guided by former Apple chief design officer Jony Ive, whose aesthetic influence is evident in the vehicle’s sleek lines and minimalist interior. While Ive’s involvement was advisory, the collaboration underscores a growing convergence between technology design and high‑performance automotive engineering.

Wertheim’s purchase was not merely a private acquisition; the entire amount paid for the Luce will be directed to the Ferrari Foundation, the charitable arm of the automaker that supports cultural, educational, and social initiatives worldwide. The foundation’s receipt of the funds is expected to bolster its programs, although specific allocations have not yet been disclosed.

The auction took place in a high‑profile setting, drawing attention from collectors, automotive enthusiasts, and industry observers. The Luce’s debut has already sparked speculation about Ferrari’s future electric lineup, with the company hinting at a broader rollout of EV models in the coming years. Analysts note that the involvement of a design legend like Ive may set a precedent for future collaborations between tech designers and luxury car manufacturers.

Wertheim’s long‑standing relationship with Apple adds an intriguing layer to the story, linking the tech giant’s design heritage with Ferrari’s performance legacy. As the first owner of the production‑grade electric Ferrari, Wertheim joins a select group of collectors who own groundbreaking vehicles at the intersection of innovation and tradition.