Ferrari has submitted a patent for a revolutionary V12 engine featuring oval-shaped pistons, a design that could redefine the architecture of high-performance engines. Traditionally, pistons and cylinders are round, but Ferrari’s innovation aims to optimize space and efficiency while maintaining the brand’s signature power and performance.
By incorporating flat-sided, oval-shaped pistons, Ferrari can arrange them more compactly, reducing the longitudinal footprint of the engine along the crankshaft axis. This approach could allow Ferrari to produce smaller, more efficient V12 engines without sacrificing performance—potentially solving long-standing design constraints.
A Trailblazing But Challenging Concept
Ferrari is not the first to explore oval piston technology. In 1979, Honda introduced an oval-piston engine in its NR500 motorcycle for Grand Prix racing. However, fabrication challenges at the time made the project difficult to execute, with Honda engineer Toshimitsu Yoshimura later questioning whether they were pursuing cutting-edge technology or a “foolish idea.”
Today, with advancements in 3D printing and precision machining, Ferrari may be better positioned to overcome the manufacturing difficulties that plagued earlier attempts. Porsche has already leveraged 3D-printed pistons, hinting that modern techniques could make Ferrari’s vision more viable.
Still, whether Ferrari will move forward with production or leave this concept as an engineering exercise remains uncertain. If the Italian marque succeeds, this patent could mark a new era for V12 engines, offering a more compact, high-performance powertrain while preserving the legendary Ferrari roar.