Ferrari to Unveil Something on July 4 – Could It Be a Manual 12Cilindri?

Ferrari has confirmed it will unveil a special new model on July 4, teasing enthusiasts with a cryptic announcement that blends past and future. The Italian supercar maker’s chief executive, Benedetto Vigna, hinted during a dealer conference in Las Vegas that the reveal would showcase a fresh take on driving dynamics, stating, “in a few weeks, if you can bear with us a little bit, then you will see something new where we put together something from the past with eyes on the future. Let’s say wait till the fourth of July. It’s really soon.”

The speculation centers on whether Ferrari will reintroduce a manual transmission for the first time since the 599 GTB in 2012, and specifically for the 12Cilindri. A recent patent filing by Ferrari reveals a groundbreaking shift-by-wire manual transmission that mimics the experience of a traditional six-speed gated shifter while offering the option to switch to automatic mode. The system, which resembles the setup in the Koenigsegg CC850, includes a six-speed gated shifter with R, N, D, and M buttons, allowing drivers to toggle between manual and automatic functionality. The shifter operates on two axes, using a pin at the base of the shift lever connected to a tiny ECU, along with spring-loaded contact rollers to deliver an authentic manual-shifting feel.

Another patent filing suggests this transmission could be integrated with Ferrari’s existing dual-clutch setup, including the one used in the 12Cilindri, making it a plug-and-play solution that retains the clutch pedal. While the full details remain under wraps, rumors indicate the limited-run manual 12Cilindri could be called the 12Cilindri MM and may be offered in both Coupe and Aperta (convertible) variants. The anticipation is palpable, as Ferrari has not built a road car with a manual gearbox in 14 years, and this new system promises to bridge tradition with cutting-edge technology.