Debut: Ferrari SF90 Spider loses its top

The Ferrari has introduced a droptop variant of the SF90 Stradale, making it the company’s first plug-in hybrid spider.

Known officially as the SF90 Spider, it features the same heavily electrified powertrain as the Stradale – combining a twin-turbo V8 engine producing 574kW with three electric motors that puts out an additional 162kW for a mighty combined output of 736kW and 900Nm of torque.

Power is channeled to all four wheels via Ferrari’s latest eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, enough to propel the SF90 Spider from 0-100km/h in a mere 2.5 seconds. 0-200km/h comes in at a breathtaking 7 seconds, while top speed is rated at 340km/h.

That’s despite a weight penalty of 100kg compared to the fixed-roof model’s 1,570kg kerb weight due to the obligatory chassis reinforcements and the roof mechanism.

The retractable hardtop also sacrifices 100 litres of space when folded away and comes in at 40kg lighter than a conventional retractable hardtop thanks to its aluminium construction. It takes just 14 seconds to fold away and also comes with an adjustable electric rear window.

Besides the different roof, Ferrari says the Spider’s cockpit has been shifted forward along with a greater raked windscreen compared to the Stradale. Its roof has also been lowered by 20mm, while the A-pillars are made thinner.

Inside, the cabin remains unchanged with the same 16-inch curved high-definition digital instrument cluster and touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and dashboard.

Customers can also order the optional Assetto Fiorano pack for their SF90 Spider, which brings a set of Multimatic dampers optimised for track use, a 21kg weight reduction courtesy of carbon fibre and titanium throughout the car, a carbon fibre rear spoiler and stickier Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres. Ferrari also offers a two-tone livery with the Assetto Fiorano pack.