By LAWRENCE TAN

Ferrari is readying a replacement for the F430, known internally only as the F142, which will adopt many of the cutting edge technologies first showcased in its 2007 Mille Chili concept.

The F142 will be a fresh design, unlike the F430, which evolved from the 360 Modena built in 1999. Though there’s no word on whether the F142 will actually house a hybrid powertrain, Ferrari is keen to cut CO2 emissions to meet stringent European laws.

Ferrari has set an ambitious target of cutting CO2 emissions by 40 percent from 400g/km to 280-300g/km by 2012.

In an interview with the Daily Telegraph newspaper at the launch of the Ferrari California in the UK last week, Ferrari chief executive Amedeo Felisa said: “Reduced displacement is one route we will have to go – definitely turbocharged units with direct injection” but has all but ruled out the possibility of diesel engines.

This could signal a smaller displacement direct-injection V8 fitted with a turbocharger. The F142 will also be lighter than the F430 Scuderia, in line with Felisa’s admission of the need for smaller and lighter cars to reduce fuel consumption.

Ferrari is set to price the new F142 above the California, with a Spyder version of the new car featuring a lightweight, lightning-fast retractable hardtop like the California. If all things go to plan, Ferrari’s first-ever ‘green’ car could debut as early as late 2009 or early 2010.

Image of the Ferrari California is taken from Autoblog

www.ferrariworld.com

via Car Magazine