Ferrari wanted to take on Chinese EVs with the Luce - then the backlash started

The new Ferrari Luce, the brainchild of iPhone designer Sir Jony Ive, is unlike anything the Italian carmaker has ever created - so is the backlash it is facing.

Its launch was such a big deal that Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Pope Leo were invited to view the luxury brand's first electric vehicle (EV).

But internet critics, investors and even politicians have hit out at the Luce - which is Italian for "light".

The firm's shares fell 8% the day after the unveiling, as a host of memes mocked the $640,000 (£475,625) car, which is also its first five-seater.

It comes as the global motor industry faces a number of major challenges, including fierce competition from Chinese carmakers.

The unveiling of a Ferrari EV marks a major shift for a brand built on sleek petrol-powered supercars, known for their roaring engines.

For years, the firm resisted going electric - even as much of the motor industry was making the transition.

The Luce is certainly as fast as many supercars: 0-60mph (96km/h) in about 2.5 seconds, with a top speed of more than 190mph.

But it is the way it looks that has drawn the most criticism.

Former Ferrari chairman Luca Cordero di Montezemolo told reporters on Tuesday that the Luce is "risking the destruction of a legend" and the firm should remove its iconic badge from the car.

Australia-based high-end car dealer and collector Shaun Baker told the BBC that he refers to the Luce - which is pronounced "loo-chay" - as the "Loser".

"Ferrari was the aspirational brand to own. But with the Luce, they've hurt their image," he said.

The Luce does not have the low-slung profile of a typical Ferrari. Powered by electric motors, it also does not have the distinctive engine noise.

"This is supposed to be innovation? I wonder what Enzo Ferrari would say," Italy's deputy prime........

© BBC